If the going is tough and the pressure is on, If the reserves of strength have been drained and the summit is still not in sight, then the quality to seek in the person is neither great strength nor quickness of hand, but rather a resolute mind firmly set on its purpose that refuses to let its body slack or rest.

I have the challenges sort of already there and as a consequence my companions feel a considerable desire to do this, too, and they feel very put out if they are left in the cold, so there we have it. We have me who has lots of ideas and then we have a very good team who wish - who are persuaded almost - to take part in these challenges.

I've always hated the danger part of climbing, and it's great to come down again because it's safe.

Environmental problems are really social problems anyway. They begin with people as the cause and end with people as the victims

On the summit of Everest, I had a feeling of great satisfaction to be first there.

I really haven't liked the commercialization of mountaineering, particularly of Mt. Everest. By paying $65,000, you can be conducted to the summit by a couple of good guides.

I had a very strong desire to carry out adventures, but in those early days I didn't actually do any. I just dreamt about it.