In October. At 8 a.m. MST, Nepal-based Dawa Yangzum Sherpa and US-based Anna Pfaff began their attempt to climb Shishapangma, the 14th highest mountain in the world, peaking at 8,027 meters (26 335 feet).
In October. On December 9 at 5:30 am Nepal time, the duo successfully reached the summit of Shishapangma after an eight-hour climb. This represents an incredible milestone for Dawa, who becomes the first Nepali woman to climb all 14 8,000 meter peaks.
Conrad Anker said: “Dawa Yangzum has been breaking glass ceilings and barriers since she started climbing. Dawa was the first woman in Nepal to obtain a UFIAGM guide certification and is an integral part of the Khumbu Climbing Center. With the successful ascent of Shishapangma, Dawa is the first Nepali woman to climb all 14 peaks above 8,000m. Such a climb requires preparation, dedication and teamwork. The North Face extends its sincere congratulations to DAWA and its Nepali community on this momentous achievement.
The climb was all the more special because it was Pfaff’s first 8,000-meter peak, his specialty in technical terrain. The feat showcased two athletes at opposite ends of the spectrum to conquer 8,000m peaks, one for first and one for 14th, reflecting the impressive and unifying community unique to climbing. Read our story about the Yangzum Sherpa here.