A British climber and writer who conquered Mount Everest and penned books about his adventures, inspiring generations of mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Peter Boardman was a British mountaineer and author who left an indelible mark on the world of adventure and literature. He is best known for his bold and lightweight expeditions to the Himalayas, often in partnership with his close friend and fellow mountaineer, Joe Tasker.
Boardman was born on December 25, 1950, in Stockport, Cheshire, England, to Alan Howe Boardman and Dorothy Boardman. He developed a passion for climbing at an early age, participating in school trips to Corsica and the Swabian Alps. He joined the Mynydd Climbing Club in 1966 and quickly progressed to climbing in the Pennine Alps in 1968.
From 1969 to 1972, Boardman studied English at the University of Nottingham, where he was President of the Mountaineering Club from 1971 to 1972. During this period, he climbed extensively in Britain and Europe and embarked on his first expedition to Afghanistan in 1972. After graduating, he obtained a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (English and outdoor activities) from the University College of North Wales in 1973.
In August 1980, Boardman married Hilary Collins, a teacher and fellow mountaineer whom he met in 1974. They shared a passion for mountains and climbed together on several expeditions, including Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya, and Carstensz Pyramid.
Boardman's climbing career was marked by several notable achievements, including the first ascent of the North Face of Changabang in 1976, the first British ascent of the North Ridge of K2 in 1978, and the first ascent of Carstensz Pyramid in 1979. His expeditions were characterized by their boldness, simplicity, and emphasis on teamwork.
Boardman's contribution to mountain literature is equally significant. He co-authored several books with Joe Tasker, including "The Shining Mountain" and "Tasker's Tales." His writing style was praised for its vivid descriptions, humor, and introspection.
On May 17, 1982, Boardman and Tasker died on the North East Ridge of Mount Everest, marking a tragic end to their illustrious climbing careers. The Boardman Tasker Prize for Mountain Literature was established in their memory, recognizing outstanding literary contributions to the genre.
Boardman's influence on modern mountaineering is profound. He inspired a generation of climbers with his bold and innovative approach to the sport. His writing has also inspired countless readers to explore the world of mountains and adventure.
Today, Boardman is remembered as a true pioneer in the world of mountaineering, a passionate advocate for the simplicity and beauty of climbing, and a gifted writer who left an indelible mark on the literary world.
The Boardman Tasker Prize for Mountain Literature, established in 1983, recognizes outstanding literary contributions to the genre. The prize is awarded annually to authors who have made significant contributions to mountain literature.
Boardman's legacy continues to inspire and influence climbers, writers, and adventure enthusiasts around the world. His bold approach to mountaineering, his literary contributions, and his passion for the natural world have cemented his place as one of the most iconic figures in the history of adventure and exploration.
84 Years Old
A British mountaineer and author who was the first to climb the south face of Mount Everest, and wrote books about his adventures.
91 Years Old
A renowned mountaineer and author, known for leading numerous expeditions and writing books about his adventures, inspiring generations of climbers and outdoor enthusiasts.
92 Years Old
A pioneering British climber who made significant first ascents in the Alps and Himalayas, known for his bold and innovative climbing style.
95 Years Old
A pioneering Scottish mountaineer and author, known for his daring ascents and literary works that captured the essence of the climbing world. He founded the Search and Rescue team and developed innovative climbing equipment.
Born in 1871
Prolific writer of historical novels and adventure stories, also a talented landscape painter.
Born in 1914
First Nepalese-Indian person to reach Mount Everest's summit, alongside Sir Edmund Hillary, marking a historic achievement in mountaineering.
