EverestHistory.com: Laurie Skreslet

Picture copyright ©Pat Morrow

"Fear of the unknown keeps many people from achieving greatness in uncharted territory", -- Laurie Skreslet

As the first Canadian to summit Everest Laurie Skreslet  (born in Calgary on October 25, 1949) achieved an historic hallmark, which will be with him the rest of his life.

As a member of a team of 21 Canadian mountaineers, led by William Joseph March, Skreslet summited via the traditional South East Col. Route on October 5, 1982. The Canadian expedition had been 5 years in planning, and required $3 million to fund, and 27 tons of equipment to outfit.

The expedition was marred by tragedy when four climbers died in the infamous and treacherous Khumbu Icefall. Laurie himself overcame three cracked ribs, suffered in a fall early in the climb, to continue to a successful and historic summit.

“To the Top of Everest”, a children’s book detailing his life and his summit of Everest was published in 2003.

Laurie Skreslet summited Everest on Oct 5, 1982 via the standard South East Ridge route.  In the group shot below, Sungdare Sherpa is with summit partners Laurie Skreslet (1st Canadian to summit Big Everest) and Lhakpa Dorje Sherpa of Khumjung.

Laurie Skreslet today is still a climber and a successful motivational speaker.

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