I respect Everest very much.

I cannot say to be glad or not glad to be on Everest. It is my life. I have opportunity to be here, so I am here.

A review of summit day photographs will show that I was clothed in the latest, highest quality, high altitude gear, comparable, if not better, than that worn by the other members of our expedition.

How could the adventure seeker of today find satisfaction with the level of performance that was a standard set more than 40 years ago ?

This year my role is clear: I am a coach, a coach to sportsmen.

I respect Everest very much.

Mountains are cathedrals: grand and pure, the houses of my religion. I go to them as humans go to worship...From their lofty summits, I view my past, dream of the future, and with unusual acuity I am allowed to experience the present moment. My strength renewed, my vision cleared, in the mountains I celebrate creation. On each journey I am reborn.