Islamabad, Oct 9: Shehroze Kashif Becomes Youngest Pakistani to Conquer All Eight-Thousander Peaks
22-year-old Shehroze Kashif has achieved the distinction of being the youngest Pakistani to scale all 14 peaks exceeding 8,000 meters.
This remarkable accomplishment was completed early this morning when Kashif reached the summit of Shishapangma, standing at 8,027 meters.
Kashif’s successful ascent of Shishapangma solidifies his reputation as a legendary mountaineer and makes him the second Pakistani to conquer this formidable challenge, following in the footsteps of Sarbaz Khan. Khan recently became the first Pakistani to ascend all 14 eight-thousanders after his own successful climb of Shishapangma.
The road to this milestone was filled with obstacles and difficulties. In 2021, Kashif triumphed over some of the world’s most renowned peaks, including Mount Everest, Manaslu, and K2.
His momentum continued into 2022 with successful climbs of Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, Makalu, Nanga Parbat, Gasherbrum I, and Gasherbrum II. Last year, he added Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Cho Oyu to his impressive tally of summits.
Reflecting on his latest triumph, Kashif conveyed deep appreciation and contemplation. “I was aware that it was going to be exceedingly tough, and the risk of losing my life was genuine,” he shared.
“I maintained my focus on the objective. Now that I am here, I understand that this accomplishment is not merely about ascending mountains; it’s about conquering fears, uncertainties, and limitations. For me, it feels like nothing short of a miracle.”
Kashif’s expedition was backed by the BARD Foundation, whose founder, Abdul Razak Dawood, expressed immense pride in the young climber’s achievements.
“I have always believed in the extraordinary potential of this young man, and today, he has exceeded all expectations, making the entire nation proud. There’s no greater joy than witnessing the name of Pakistan’s youth celebrated on a global stage,” Dawood remarked.