Record-breaking mountaineer to visit North East after latest climb
A world-record-breaking mountaineer is set to visit the North East to give a talk after completing another climb against the odds.
Hari Budha Magar, who is a double above-knee amputee, reached the summit of Mount Aconcagua in Argentina on Saturday, February 22, at around 3pm, adding to his list of record-breaking achievements.
This was the highest peak outside of Asia at 6,960.8 metres.
(Image: @ramirasamny @lifehappensoutdoors)
He is now aiming to climb the seven highest mountains on all seven continents.
Having now successfully reached the top of five, he aims to climb the remaining two in Oceania and Antarctica in 2025 to achieve his goal by the end of this year.
If successful, Hari will be the first double above-knee amputee to complete the seven summits, which is a recognised feat only 500 people in history have ever achieved.
The former British Gurkha soldier will now be heading back to the UK to give his "No Legs No Limits" talk at Middlesbrough Town Hall on Sunday, April 13, as part of his UK Speakers from the Edge tour.
(Image: @ramirasamny @lifehappensoutdoors)
Mr Budha Magar said: "No mountain is too small.
"Every mountain brings its own challenges, but for me, these are amplified with my disability.
"Climbing mountains is a way to make awareness of disability and show the world that despite my disability, anything is possible.
"It's about having the right mindset and adapting to the world around us.
"It's been a long and hard journey since losing my legs in Afghanistan.
"There have been some really dark times.
"Yet, with support from family, friends, with the help from some incredible charities and communities, and with a bucket load of grit and determination, I've had the chance to realise a childhood dream and make a real positive impact.
"Out of all of my achievements, helping others find their value and a place in this world, that's been more rewarding than anything else."
Mr Budha Magar served for 15 years with the Royal Gurkha Rifles in the British Army and in 2010, he lost his legs in Afghanistan after stepping on an improvised explosive device.
He said that following this life changing event, he found purpose in climbing and made it his mission to raise awareness of disability globally.
He added: "I hope my climb will inspire others to climb their own mountains and conquer their dreams whatever that might be."
His mountaineering journey started back in 2018 when he fought the supreme court to allow him to climb Everest.
He said: "Everest was a great start, but it isn't enough to show people once.
"You need to do it over and over to inspire real change.
"This is why I dedicated my life and made a lifetime mission to make awareness of disability.
"The seven summits challenge is my chance to do some of that, in every corner of the world."
For more information, visit the "Speakers from the Edge" website.
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