Boredom has always been a problem.

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.

Nothing can replace courage, a resounding motivation and that little bit of luck.

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 hate being called an 'icon.' I just don't like it. That's all there is to it.

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 think my strengths perhaps are that I'm determined. I may not be the best climber in the world, but I do like to sort of succeed and so that tends to drive me on, as it were, and I don't give up too easily.