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Everest '96: A Compelling Expose of Death and Deceit

The world’s highest mountain can bring out the best in people – and the worst. We usually only read about the bravery, courage and sacrifice of mountaineers who risk life and limb to achieve excellence - but there are others - the charlatans, conmen and bullies who sacrifice others to reach the top.Everest ’96 forensically examines the impact of a killer storm which swept over the Himalayas, scattering bodies in its wake on the deadliest night in Everest climbing history.Even before the storm hit, a South African expedition, supported by Nelson Mandela, disintegrated as a web of deceit and deception spun by its narcissistic leader unravelled even as the team trekked to Everest Base Camp.Ken Vernon was the journalist assigned to cover the SA expedition and in Everest ’96 he dissects an expedition that became a laughing-stock; peels back the layers of deception of the most reviled climber in Everest lore; and delves deeply into the dynamics that have made climbing Everest a tick-box adventure.Read more

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