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.

Strong motivation is the most important factor in getting you to the top

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

I think Himalayan climbers tend to mature fairly late. I think most of the successful Himalayan climbers have ranged from 28 to just over 40, really.

I have discovered that even the mediocre can have adventures and even the fearful can achieve.

I think I mainly climb mountains because I get a great deal of enjoyment out of it. I never attempt to analyze these things too thoroughly, but I think that all mountaineers do get a great deal of satisfaction out of overcoming some challenge which they think is very difficult for them, or which perhaps may be a little dangerous.

I will come again & conquer you because as a mountain you can't grow, but as a human, I can