Ed Viesturs becomes first American to climb all 14 of the world's 8,000 meter peaks
"The idea of climbing all 14 of the 8000 meter peaks became a goal of mine in 1994. It was something I had thought about earlier but did not think it would be possible until then. At that time I had climbed Everest (twice), K-2, and Kangchenjunga all without the use of supplemental oxygen. I wanted to continue climbing more 8000ers but the reality of financing these expeditions was until then still out of my reach.
"Things began to change and by early 1994 I was consistantly employed as an international Mountain Guide, had gained some name recognition, and had finally aquired a longterm sponsor-Mountain Hardwear. These factors gave me the confidence to go public with the idea of climbing the remaining 8000 meter peaks. I decided to call this project Endeavor 8000 to give it substance and a title for promotion.
"This has always been a personal goal regardless of notoriety, but I had to market and promote the idea to others to gain sponsorship opportunies. I would be true to my word and climb for myself, by my own rules and not be swayed by corporate or peer pressure. Since then I have chosen to work with companies that believe in what I do and how I do it and the relationships have been beneficial to all involved."
- Ed Viesturs