Legendary Hungarian Climber DISAPPEARS On Everest

2023 will go down as one of the most deadly seasons ever on Mount Everest, with 18 deaths recorded, and one of the most memorable was of a seasoned mountaineer who most never expected that tragedy would befall him. This is the story of Suhajda Szilard, a popular Hungarian mountaineer, married and father of one, who was attempting to climb Everest without the use of bottled oxygen or any sherpa support.
TIME STAMPS:
00:00 Introduction to most disturbing photo
00:30 - 2023 most deadly season in Everest history
1:25 - The story of Suhajda Szilárd
2:26 - what it’s like to climb Everest without bottled oxygen
3:55 Szilárd’s previous 8000ers and lead-up to Everest without O’s
4:45 - the perils of climbing in the Death Zone
5:53 - Everest becoming a tourist mountain and costs to climb it
6:45 - if you get in trouble in the Death Zone and chances for rescue
7:38 - Szilárd’s acclimatization process to prepare for a summit big
9:10 - Szilárd’s final day and summit bid, May 24th 2023 and the last photo taken of him
10:37 - route to the summit from the South Summit ‘Corniced Ridge’ to the Hillary Step
11:05 - final GPS coordinates during summit attempt at Hillary Step
11:59 - Rescue mission launched to search for Szilárd
RESOURCES:
Waiting for News from No-O2 Climber Suhajda Szilard
explorersweb.com/everest-no-o...
Suhajda Szilard at Foot of Everest’s Hillary Step, Barely Alive. He is Still Out There
explorersweb.com/suhajda-szil...
Rescuers Hurry Toward Suhajda Szilard
explorersweb.com/everest-resc...
Last Photo: Fellow Climber Captures Final Glimpse of Suhajda Szilard’s Everest Journey
explorersweb.com/last-photo-s...
Szilard Suhajda on Instagram: / szilardsuhajda
Everest By the Numbers, Alan Arnette: www.alanarnette.com/blog/2021....
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DISCLAIMER:
Thank you for watching this video! We want to clarify that some of the footage used in this content is intended for educational purposes, providing commentary and analysis on the subject matter. We respect copyright holders and have made efforts to attribute the sources wherever possible. Our goal is to enhance the educational value of our content, fostering understanding and critical thinking.
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Sincerely,
Everest Mystery

[@EverestMystery]

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[@dottypitchell208]

RIP. Regards to his family. I can't imagine doing this myself, but he was driven to push himself. He passed doing exactly that.

[@user-yw8qf8cc3t]

I have my name down for a trek to Advance Base Camp from Tibet. I'm worried about the altitude of 6,350m and I don't have snow gear.

[@Linda-yz8ss]

what motivates a mountaineer is what motivates an extreme skier, which I was. Until one day, a simple mistake sent me flying through the air, 500 feet, I landed and didn't bust anything. Went home and thought, I am the only mother my son has, yes, skiing out of bounds is really selfish, you only get to press the edge so much and then it gives out. The thrill I get would never be worth the pain my son would feel raising himself alone.

[@Justicia007]

Divine revelation. I'm glad your son will have you around!

[@imbobbiobobbio6546]

Good choice.

[@EverestMystery]

@Linda-yz8ss thanks so much for sharing! You are probably familiar with the stories I've done about Hilaree Nelson. I also have a short interview segment with Adrian Ballinger about parents who are extreme athletes. Thanks for visiting the channel, good having you here!

[@Linda-yz8ss]

thank you!

[@intexas9434]

Respect. Well done.

[@judyo923]

This tragedy reminds me of what Nim Sherpa said when asked what Ueli Steck could have brought with him on his fatal climb of Nuptse that would have saved his life - and he said "a climbing partner". So true. High Altitude Climbing solo without oxygen is without doubt, the most dangerous act a person can do. Some also would say the most irresponsible/selfish act - if one has children. I'm sorry but I don't buy the "he was a different breed" talk. He was a human being - and thus subject to the same biological laws and laws of physics that we all are bound to. To climb solo without oxygen with children at home - is selfish and full of hubris. It just is.

[@Felipe_Ribeir0]

The "different breed" talk is true. You cant look at what Alex Honnold is doing and say that he is an average guy. Ueli Steck wasnt also. Guys like them are able to cross the line of the average humans, maybe because of a combination of an ununsual lack of fear, giant physical capacity, and obsession. And ofc being better than the average do not make you immortal, if you drive at high speed and at the limit too often, luck is against you in the long run.

[@larapalma3744]

Just only thinking about the thrill Not the family

[@fugoo8912]

Just a different kind of addiction.

[@larapalma3744]

@@fugoo8912 maybe it is

[@TragicallyCharmed]

And the selfishness goes right along with that

[@user-cx1gc8pd4i]

I respect and honour the countless men who assume their responsibility as fathers and husbands and for the sake of their families, give up their bachelor life, give up partying, give up drugs, give up chasing other women or give up chasing fame in the death zone of the Himalayas, even if the sacrifice hurts sometimes. It is called mature. These people are the unsung heros of family life. The others are selfish, immature b*stards who don't give an F for their children, for whom fame is more important than their family. As Reinhold Messner said: "The pain that mountaineers cause to their families is unforgivable". And if they are ao addicted to the mountains that they can't give them up (although there are many possibilities to go climbing and survive it): then don't have children !!!!

[@Rev-me6ml]

Totally agree 👍

[@fredrit323]

Spot on.

[@jmeshox2730]

Absolutely!!

[@Justicia007]

I have to agree! While I understand the drive to do these things is in some people, If you have a small baby already, it's too late. You shouldn't be climbing in the Himalaya. I think it's totally selfish. The real hard work is day-to-day being a father and husband!

[@Justicia007]

Although I disagree with his decision to climb Everest as a father, I'm sorry for what happened to him, may he RIP.

[@andreah.8470]

I'm Hungarian and had been following Szilard for a while and I was devastated by what happened to him. I really wanted him to succeed. Also thank you for making the effort to pronounce his name properly - very refreshing.

[@EverestMystery]

I contacted a friend in Europe to help me with the pronunciation. I've made mistakes before and got an earful. Thank you for watching this video, I appreciate it!

[@NadineWilliamsNadege]

@@EverestMystery the Magyar language is very difficult. No one should give a non Native speaker a hard time. Ask Mariska Hargitay. I'm sure she'd say how often her name is anglicized.

[@neutchain7838]

@@NadineWilliamsNadege As a Hungarian myself who lives in a different country I totally agree. I've met names that I dont even attempt to pronounce and its pretty wild to expect someone who doesnt even speak said language to pronounce words correctly.

[@GoingTheWholeHogg]

We stayed at the same guesthouse as Szilard in Dingboche in April '23. We were doing the Three Passes trek, and he was slowly making his way to Everest. A group of Hungarian trekkers happened to be staying at the guesthouse too, and Szilard hosted an impromptu hour-long talk in the dining room. Most of it was in Hungarian and we couldn't understand it all, but we were nonetheless captivated and amazed by his achievements so far, and what he was setting out to achieve on Everest. He came across as very humble, determined, and a meticulous planner. We followed his journey from then on and were very saddened when news of his disappearance broke. I appreciate your non-sensationalised account.

[@EverestMystery]

Wow, this is quite incredible....thank you so much for sharing. It's beyond sobering when one meets or sees and individual with so much life and passion and conviction, then they are no longer walking on this planet. I'm glad you had the opportunity to be in his presence and appreciate that you took the time to share it here....

[@giselleagoston3537]

Thank you for your lovely words.

[@joejones8776]

@7:30 It’s refreshing to see someone in mountaineering make such a commitment to their children. I’ve read about it time and time and time again: a child (or children) being left without a parent because someone takes a risk many would deem risky and unnecessary. It’s one thing to be single without people depending on you but I respect anyone who puts priority on family and children.

[@EverestMystery]

Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment, I really appreciate it. The step from using O's to climbing without O's is a big step, indeed.

[@eastcoastmz]

It was so sad hearing this climber lost his life. While I'm not a mountain climber and don't understand what drives a man or woman to climb Mt Everest solo and without oxygen, I respect their passion and drive to pursue their greatest dream of reaching the summit. I'm very sad for his wife and child. 😔

[@rickciceran3181]

Ego driven selfish narcissist. Period. No thought or care for his wife or child.

[@ladyweasellou3367]

@@rickciceran3181 yeah there comes a point where you need to step away from dangerous hobbies and care for your family. It costs an insane amount to do that and a long time to prepare, not to mention what the financial situation is. Now children are fatherless and a woman widowed. I work SAR and I've seen too much of that, it's so sad. I've been widowed before my current husband and it's devastating and painful. If you want a dangerous hobby, that's fine but you need to take stock of what your family needs or get it out of your system before marrying and having children and how much you miss in the children's life.

[@Errcyco]

It’s veiwed like.. say I won a hugely complex motorcycle race…. But I had training wheels on. That’s a poor example, but the same logic. To really unquestionably say you defeated a mountain, the purists believe you do it on your own. Which.. is silly. 8,000m is almost poking out of the atmosphere.. even weeds can’t live there. Neat factoid. Above 8,000m cells stop repairing themselves. And if you know how our bodies work.. cells constantly die and rebuild. As you read this, millions of cells died and new ones formed. So even if you do fantastic and summit Everest, you’re dying. It’s a strange phenomenon.. you literally just start dying as you’re awake. It must be a scary revelation to have once it’s to late. Sorry for the rant!!

[@chechuivanov1706]

@@rickciceran3181 if that is the story then never take a car because more people die in car accidents than in Mont Everest every single day

[@bloozedaddy]

​@@chechuivanov1706 you're not much of a deep thinker , are you? What a ridiculous analogy.

[@randalrobinson3424]

It was refreshing to see a KZbin video by someone who actually understands what they are talking about!

[@EverestMystery]

Great having you here, thank you!

[@imanalien2222]

And wears an appropriate shirt.

[@Itried20takennames]

They exist. I recall right after the Titan sub lost contact, several YTers with submersible experience posted videos saying “I am sorry, but this is not a ticking clock rescue, as the media is presenting it. The submersible almost certainly imploded.” And they were correct.

[@mrfunnynames1742]

Most are ai bs

[@PatCatLondon]

I am a fellow Hungarian and have been following your channel for a while. Thank you for your non-sensational delivery of the facts and especially for pronancing his name correctly. This sort of attention to detail and your thorough research make your channel very special. RIP Szilárd.

[@EverestMystery]

I'm honored to have you following the channel and cannot overstate my appreciation of individuals like Szilárd. Thank you for taking the time to watch and to comment. Cheers, sending the very best to you!

[@stoki1]

Thank you for the kind and professional words about this tragic incident. As a Hungarian we all felt very sad what happened to Szilárd . It’s an un imaginable what he’s family have to go through without the husband son and father . I believe that in certain situations we all have to make decisions regards of about our choice. Unfortunately in Szilard’s prospective he made a wrong choice when he didn’t turn back when he could. Also because he was so determined to complete the last few hundred meters he couldn’t stop because it was he’s motivation to proof that he can show to the whole world that he’s capable to manage without any extra help . Big respect to him and to everybody who ever did or tried to climb any of these giant mountains. RIP Szilárd ❤️🖤❤️🖤❤️

[@EverestMystery]

Thanks so much for watching, and for sharing your thoughts. It is a cautionary tale, for sure....with a sad ending. We all move on, and I'm sure that ultimately everyone will adjust and get on with their lives....I, for one, am interested in reading the book when the time comes. Cheers and thank you

[@pillancs1006]

Thank you for your humble talk about Szilárd Suhajda. Greetings from Hungary 🇭🇺

[@sisterpamop]

Your upfront delivery without sensationalism is appreciated. The climbing legends live on, although I can not understand the drive to risk one's life in such a way. The legends of climbing offer archetypes of human nature similar to the myths of old, human ego, drive, fortitude, perseverance, and cleverness, along with foolishness. It's so sad to hear the stories of death and satisfying to hear of those who lived.

[@EverestMystery]

Firstly, welcome to the channel and thank you for becoming a member. It's validation that the channel is going in the right direction. Your insight on the archetypes is so perfectly on point....summoning Joseph Campbell and the sages of old who inspired him to describe the various ways that the living find themselves in a multitude of situations. I appreciate that you took the time to share your thoughts.

[@lisametheny2243]

Risking his life, and he left his family behind without a father and husband. This was foolhardy. And when he goes back to the afterlife, he will ask himself, “what did I do for humanity, how did I help anyone?” He didn’t, his life was wasted. This is an ego feathering endeavor.

[@EverestMystery]

While I appreciate your thoughts, I can't envision knowing what another person's life review might look like, especially whether someone else wasted their life or not. We have no way of knowing what another person's life purpose is. For instance, when my brother took his own life, I soon came to realize that this event in my life was the single most pivotal and important moment of my life, albeit painful, ultimately and positively impacting every single decision I have ever made since. I wouldn't say my brother's life was wasted. He positively impacted so many lives in his short time on this planet, truly making a difference wherever he went. We don't know how the loss of Szilárd will impact his family....perhaps the same will happen for them (or a viewer on this channel). Thanks so much for watching! PS, there is a Discord channel for chats like this for Members of this channel. This is a great conversation, truly....done respectfully, this topic can be very interesting and helpful to discuss. Thanks for being here!

[@lenitaa7938]

@@EverestMysteryI really appreciate reading your sincere, caring, empathetic comments that give another perspective that we all need to hear! Thanks! ❤

[@EverestMystery]

@@lenitaa7938 that means a ton to me, I really appreciate it....I want people to have a positive experience here, Thanks for being here and for letting me know :)

[@crucialtaunt5717]

How do you know he didn't help anyone during his life? Would you like some stranger making these judgments about you (or your loved one) after only knowing one aspect of your life?

[@Chrissy85308]

That picture is heart breaking. I am disabled and can't walk up a hill but I admire people who climb mountains and go after the tallest. It must be amazing to summit when you have worked so hard. I am hoping to read the his book. I think it will be interesting.

[@EverestMystery]

Thanks so much for watching the video and for sharing part of your story....it's good having you here!

[@bencemervay]

Thank you for covering this story! I am Hungarian, so I am familiar with the story. When it happened, it was all around the news and I was thinking hard about what would I have done in Szilárd's place. I must have been hard, having to decide between personal goals and family. I think I would have chosen the latter (especially with a small child), but I am far from a professional, I like hiking and climbing, but I have only been above 2000m once. I have that call for adventure, but it is not as strong in me as to risk my life. I respect you for your decision, I think Szilárd should have choosen the same, but as I mentioned, I am a hobbyist; I have my priorities elsewhere.

[@EverestMystery]

I'm happy you found this video and that you took the time to share your thoughts. I really like your analysis of the situation....it's without judgment. My sense is that he and his wife had an understanding, likely had discussed what would happen if the unthinkable happened. They appear to have been equal partners, essentially, in the goals he set for climbing the mountains without O's. All that said, it doesn't take away that they now have a fatherless child. I've covered these stories for some time on this channel...the idea of parents who climb...is it morally acceptable? I had this discussion with Adrian Ballinger, and posted it here (the idea of parents climbing/skiing): kzbin.info/www/bejne/hqe6qHhvhtFmoas I'd love to hear your thoughts on it!

[@Nimrod-BuckysHuntingTips]

Wow. Sad. You have a child, you're married - bring oxygen, because the death zone doesn't care. The descent itself is enough to kill you. RIP

[@garthferrell5723]

Does anyone climb a mountain unless they finish the descent?

[@Bob31415]

@@garthferrell5723 The descent is the more dangerous part and therefore should be skipped.

[@ErinRenee1990]

I want to thank you for how you tell us about what happened. I’m not a mountaineer however I have watched many videos about it but I don’t know everything. You are very respectful in telling us information we might not know as someone who has never climb a mountain. Thank you.

[@robinputnam2569]

Thank you so much for letting us get to know these people, I love hearing about their lives and spirits. May they RIP. ♥

[@EverestMystery]

thanks for taking the time to watch and for letting me know! Lots more to come in the future

[@brandonrosen6096]

Love the Jerry shirt! Confirms I came to the right channel ;)

[@siggifreud812]

I think the most disturbing part of the picture is Suhajda, with "NO O2" hugely visible on his snow suit, sitting & contemplating what lies before him: The summit of Everest, but more importantly he is confronted by the pile of discarded empty O2 bottles lying before him. This "in your face" moment tragically foreshadows what will lead to his demise just a short time after: NO O2.

[@Jyotime]

Dear Thom, I love your Channel. You are such a great and unique personality. I hope many more people will find you and your great skills to tell the Mountain and Peoples Stories. Thank you so much for all the quality content. I wish i could go on a hike with you! :) lots of Love from Germany

[@lpetmcd]

Some people get it, many won’t. The fascinating part to me is the fact that he did this alone. Definitely no ordinary guy.

[@Azuria969]

yeah he is a colossial m0 ron indeed, ordinary men have more brain than to attempt sg so suicidal, SO HAD YOUR OWN FATHER he probably also didnt choose certain death to be able to brag

[@TheKakamuka]

New subscriber here. Beautiful message! Love the background music (indian here) ❤

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you very much, I am happy you enjoyed it. It's good having you here

[@calij586]

Thank you so much for such a great video honoring Szilard. I very much appreciated the information and photos of the various locations on Everest. It's almost like I am there. RIP Dear Szilard. PS The comments below the article by ExplorersWeb gave alot more details as to Szilards last moments

[@MUFC1933]

I really like your delivery I’m really enjoying this thank you 👌

[@davidroberts5577]

The mountaineering world lost one of the best, as did humanity. You've done an amazing job of honoring him with your insight and expertise, thank you.

[@EverestMystery]

I truly appreciate your comment and really happy that you took the time to watch the video. Comments like this keep me motivated to keep creating....thank you

[@davidroberts5577]

@@EverestMystery Thank you 😎

[@behindthespotlight7983]

Firstly I’m new to this channel and this host rocks. Very laid back and reasonable fellow. As an avid backpacker and under 15k vertical mountaineer (I use “mountaineer” but do not self refer as “alpinist” Alpinist is what we’re talking here) Anyhow as someone who’s clocked a few klicks on vertical with bivy gear, food & an ice axe, I gotta say that solo Death Zone summit attempts just aren’t wise. They just aren’t. There are so many legit moments when a partner will note “bro you’ve got slack tailing” or “dude you missed that safety” or as mentioned in the video “you planning on swapping eye pro?” These are not levels of incompetence or lack of skill. They’re just being human. And humble. Especially in oxygen depleted activities. I feel likewise about technical divers. Should men & women penetrate unstable ship wrecks 300 feet beneath open ocean? Safety wise? Probably not. Liberty wise? GO FOR IT. Nonetheless all one need do is read one of dozens of wreck diving (or cave diving) books to quickly surmise that nitrogen narcosis, a bad tox hit or even the bends can just…happen . Even to guys who literally wrote the books. I’m a “no signs is a good day” type adventurer. Even the difference between East Coast (sign hell) and West Coast trekking is huge in the laissez-faire, need to get away from shit and be a free human being experience. Thing is our failure to self-moderate (like we did more successfully in the 1990’s and earlier) inevitably leads to more restrictions. More annoyances. More poop tubes, bear bells, fire bans and mandatory trail shelters. Yes some people dig that stuff. I’m a bit more Jim Bridger and Jedediah Smith in my approach. Rest assured the more high profile cases amplified on youtube, like clockwork “authorities” will latch on to heretofore unseen opportunities to ban activities, limit freedoms and require licenses, permits and fees. Paying for pieces of paper to trek or float our land sucks. Being threatened with multiple thousands in fines? Is even worse. Anyhow as it is said in honor of the brave and fallen “the lessons of today are written on the gravestones of our heroes” Thanks for the great documentary. I pray the peace that passes understanding for the surviving loved ones of Szilárd Suhajda.

[@dana102083]

Well done, keep this up! Glad to have found you in this community.❤ RIP🙏

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you!

[@vegardn1282]

so grateful u kept on making videos!

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you SO much! I'm glad, as well....lots of good stuff coming soon!

[@hexadecimal7300]

Thankyou for an excellent video.

[@freereinartstudio1463]

New subscriber here. 😊 Thank you for a 1st class video and testimony of this mountaineer! I am a 63 year old grandma, never having the least bit of desire to climb Mt Everest but thoroughly enjoying seeing the stark beauty of nature & hearing of the determination and guts of people much braver than I! I appreciate the sensitive way you tell the story too, considering a man lost his life.

[@humbertsmith8864]

Great, thoughtful video Thom! Definitely I would find it hard to criticize anyone who attempts a Messner-like summit bid. I just returned from Nepal again and I was a bit surprised to see trekkers air-lifted from 4000 meters because of altitude. I can only imagine what over 8000 means.

[@EverestMystery]

Thanks so much for watching! What you might be witnessing with thees airlifts is an unfortunately common practice of Nepali owned trekking companies is that they sell low budget treks (or Everest climbs), receive 100% of the money for the journey in advance....a person gets a headache or a cough and they call for a rescue. Two things are accomplished: they get the money but now don't need any sherpa or support for tht client; they partner with helicopter operators who make bank on the evac, and receive kickbacks from the operators for the business. Believe me, this happens far more than one might imagine. I'm endeavoring to do a story on this next spring, as expedition companies go to Everest filled to the gills with inexperienced clients....guess what happens when they get a headache or show any signs of mountain sickness?

[@humbertsmith8864]

I agree...I saw this practice in Khumbu in May, as the lodge owner offered a doctor to authorize it.@@EverestMystery

[@dana102083]

​@@EverestMysteryI have similar symptoms with a condition called IIH. I always imagine that while fatigued.. I feel like my brain becomes dumb, really. Inept. Dysfunctional. I can't imagine hypoxia on top of it. It's insane!!

[@Trish.Norman]

Excellent vid Thom!! Great coverage.

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you Trish, I really appreciate it! And especially appreciate your being a member :)

[@marektrojanowski4022]

Hello. Thank you for another very interesting material from the high Himalayas. Best regards from Warsaw.

[@gbedmonds1594]

I'm a diabetic and I literally live and can die without my medicine there are times when my sugar drops and it comes on so sneakily I don't recognize it and my wife does giving me what I need. It effects my mental and physical state that's how dangerous it can be so having my partner by my side is what can save my life. I can't imagine not having someone at 28k feet not backing my play? Can't wrap my mind around it. Sad for his family.

[@MatildasMama]

not sure how you ended up in my algo because i’m not actively searching for climbing/Everest stories but am glad you did because this is honestly REALLY interesting. subscribed. ☺️

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you found my video interesting and decided to subscribe....it is funny how the algo works, as I personally have become a big fan of near death experience videos, who would have know? lol I hope you continue to enjoy the content I create....welcome to the channel!

[@johndef5075]

First time on your channel. You do an excellent job of explaining the situations.

[@EverestMystery]

I really appreciate it, thank you for watching and for letting me know!

[@carolynshepherd4153]

It’s a pleasure to listen to your narration, as you are very articulate and have perfect grammar. It may seem like a small thing, but so many vloggers today lack these skills, and it ‘s discouraging to me. Bravo 👏

[@EverestMystery]

I really appreciate that you took the time to let me know. I enjoy making these videos and realize that they have a life of their own....and people will continue to watch them for years to come. Comments like yours make the effort all worthwhile. Thank you so much!

[@guynisot8765]

Merci pour le partage de votre vidéo bien racontée et détaillée, qui met en évidence les risques souvent insensés présentés par une telle expérience; démontrée surhumaine dans les faits, liés aux circonstances la plupart du temps imprévisibles ....! 🧐

[@mountainclimber48]

Excellent video, albeit sad of course. You made very important points in an eloquent and respectful way. Bottled oxygen is a critical tool like clothing, crampons, axes, rope, etc.

[@EverestMystery]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video....I appreciate your comment and happy that you took the time to watch. Thank you!

[@joanpascal7745]

Well said❤🎉😊

[@linmorell1813]

My father died of natural causes while my mother was pregnant. My brother was born weeks later. We used to take him to our father’s grave and call it his Daddy’s garden. At 3 or 4 he asked why other people had daddy’s an he only had a daddy’s garden? Difficult to explain. And sad for both father & son as in this case.

[@steveinthemountains8264]

I like to daydream about summitting Everest, but I'll have to content myself with hiking the 4K footers here in New Hampshire. Still fascinating to hear about the stories of those who take the risks and climb so high!

[@EverestMystery]

Along with the 4000 footers in the Adirondacks, the 48 in NH is basically where it all got started for me, and now that I'm more or less looking in the rear view mirror at the 8000ers, I'm absolutely thrilled to revisit many of those peaks in the coming years.... Thanks for watching!

[@vickilawrence7207]

I’m really enjoying your videos

[@elizabethpeterson4029]

Love 💕 this channel..as a 68 year old woman who has never even climbed a hill..I am so impressed with these adventures and the great sportsmen who climb mountains!❤❤

[@EverestMystery]

I'm glad you found the video, thanks so much for watching!

[@Jen-rose76]

R.I.P. to all those lost on the mountain. I don’t understand why people climb Everest. She is so beautiful but so deadly. 💙🙏🏽💙

[@kristinfrazee2097]

The utmost respect for you in this channel. I have followed Mount Everest for years mind boggled as to why people do this I do not understand it and I do not want to understand it. It's almost like a death Pole pulling people towards the destiny of death. When I read stories about this man who died all I feel about this man is ego and pride. Anybody that is as popular as he was pushing the limit again and again to me it almost felt like he had to do it because he was being watched. And he wanted to make sure everybody knew it how amazing he was !!! If people to choose to do this without anyone relying on them especially children then go ahead but knowing you can do something and possibly die from it, and have children i do not understand it and I cannot respect it. Still I find myself fascinated to read about these things constantly!!!!

[@EverestMystery]

I'm glad you took the time to watch and to share your thoughts. I personally cannot truly say what an individual's motivations are....it appears to me that he and his wife were aligned in the direction he was taking his life. One of my best friends lost his dad when he was 8....and despite the heartache, he says it was the most pivotal and important event of his life. So, we can't really say how losing a dad is going to impact someone....and I'm not saying that it's not important to consider when being a dad, because it is. I hope you enjoy some of the other offerings on the channel...there are many videos worth a similar kind of discussion. Thanks again!

[@booboomagoo1305]

Climbing Everest with no O2 and no sherpas/guides/partners is Literally the definition of fk around and out.

[@elliejobonney2926]

I like your style xxx Watching from London.

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you!

[@1955porsche]

One must put safety caution first...amazing story....what makes ppl like him him?...99% of ppl dont hav what he had....great v8deo

[@EverestMystery]

Thanks so much for watching, it's much appreciated!

[@christinemorrison4418]

Look at you at 30k! Congrats

[@EverestMystery]

🎉 thank you!

[@zztop4996]

Thank you for this video. (Initial background sound track is too loud.)

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you for watching....(and the technical observation). Cheers, I'm glad you found the channel and that you enjoyed the video

[@sba8710]

I followed this story and it’s heartbreaking. I was hoping for his rescue.

[@dr.nigelcool3771]

That conga line at 7:02, who wants to do something like that. If I were a real mountaineer I would go to a different one of those less climbed mountains nearby.

[@CPE1704TK5]

I came to this on my exploration of narcissism/psychopathy and evolution and found your beautiful work. Unexpected spiritual and philosophical bonus ! Many thanks for what you do 💜♾️⛺️

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate it! Your awesome comment truly charges me to keep making more content....so glad you found it!

[@CPE1704TK5]

@@EverestMystery me too! I have been searching for something with the depth to compare to the narcissism pandemic and nothing had it. Everest is the key. My word what a grand stage of humanity and if people didn’t put themselves to the test like that we would never learn these lessons through them. So many thanks again for being such a pure conduit of such pure learning. I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot. I’m hooked too 😆 now have plans to go and see it for myself, when my son is older, but we will look at it from the bottom lol 💜💫

[@picahudsoniaunflocked5426]

13:40 It probably is difficult to put into words, hence the popularity of author-adventurers. I used to interview artists, & I tried to tease out "why this?" answers, but the truth is, if they could articulate it, they prob wouldn't be making art. If they could articulate it, they prob wouldn't be climbing mountains. I hope I never forget the best answer I ever got from an artist. This person did a lot of installations but mostly she considered her drawings the root of her practice. When I asked why she drew, she thought about it a bit & stated, "it just feels like the most natural thing I can do with my hands". Doing what you feel you were made to do is the closest any of us get to feeling alive.

[@EverestMystery]

Ahh, thank you....for watching, and for the great words. I think when people go all-in on a sport or avocation, it comes from within. These days, I believe many on the Everest tract, however, are more inspired by the 15 minutes of fame they might receive if they reach the top.

[@tsjackson72]

Such a nice photo until you learn the full story. Then it's heartrending. My heart goes out to his wife and child. One question. Do you think the commercialization of climbing causes some climbers to take more risks than they might ordinarily take? Loved your Garcia tee! And also the pics of the luxuries available at base camp - impressive!

[@MomCatMeows]

That Hilary step is scary for sure. I could never! Especially after having a child.

[@suzystone244]

Everest is a mountain which has a final say so. She feels the human foot print. She is temperamental. Edgy. Disturbing. Unbelievable. Amazing. This solo climber paid his price. Another frozen body etched in the mountain.😢❤

[@pizzafrenzyman]

Spending the night at the Hillary Step would be a once in a lifetime opportunity. If the skies were clear, it would seem like the stars are just a stone's throw away.

[@simonbrown-id6ud]

I started climbing as a kid, mostly in snowdonia where obviously the legends echo/ Mallory, brown, whillans echo and Everest has never really interested me. My dream (goal) was always the dru or the eiger. Which I finally got round to doing both last year. Great channel mate

[@EverestMystery]

Wow, you knocked off the Dru? Epic! When I first started climbing in the 80's I spent a ton of time in Chamonix (actually stayed in Argentiere)....I was fascinated by the American Direct route on the Dru. I never got around to it, but did have some epic adventures. Oh, I didn't mean to leave out the Eiger....BRAVO! You are a master of the craft. It's great having you here, thank you

[@simonbrown-id6ud]

@@EverestMystery hiya mate, I went up the north face route on the dru and the original heckmair route up the eiger. I bivied on the dru which had a good view of the American direct route (I think / crap memory these days) I would add some pics but I’m not sure how on here. Thanks for the kind comments sir! I’m not tbh you can pretty drag yourself up anything with enough stupidity. I love you’re channel mate! Good videos.

[@maxwellfisher446]

The widow should write a book about how he made a poor decision and abandoned his family so other fathers don’t take the same risk. Instead she is going to perpetuate it by inspiring others to do the same.

[@teresaharris-travelbybooks5564]

What a sad story. He looks like a nice guy.

[@roberthunter5398]

Extreme sports are dangerous. He was an exceptional mountaineer and was well aware of this. While death is sad, not everyone dies doing what they live for. Maybe we could say it was a glorious death. Listening to your soft voice tell his story was beautiful. Thank you, Thom.

[@user-cx1gc8pd4i]

Not a glorious death, but a superfluous one, completely self-inflicted out of hubris, arrogance and stupidity

[@roberthunter5398]

@user-cx1gc8pd4i well that is certainly one analysis and fair comment. Maybe we shouldn't comment on such things though 🤔. What matters is how his loved ones view his death.

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you....much appreciated !

[@afterburner2869]

It’s amazing to me at how willing people are to give up their life to stroke their egos .

[@sergejmaher144]

Solo up there with no 02, crazy brave and sad

[@MomCatMeows]

Crazy for sure

[@EverestMystery]

Truly appreciate that you took the time to watch the video, thank you!

[@user-cx1gc8pd4i]

Idiotic and selfish. Not one single thought for the little one who is now without a father.

[@jeremywanner4526]

Awsome shirt!

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you! It glows in the dark and has become a favorite to wear to shows 🎸

[@RRRIBEYE]

07:40 No truer words ever spoken my friend, LOL!

[@EverestMystery]

Well, I guess I needed to stick around for my kids to grow up so they could see how I reacted when I found them having a bb gun fight in our house lol

[@thefrener794]

If anyone told me they could get me to the top of Everest, I would immediately notify the police.

[@ndburton1]

Everest has been climbed so much & desecrated with the detritus of climbing it should be closed for climbing until the mess is dealt with.

[@dianesavant2818]

Truth

[@georgemartin1498]

Very good. Thank you! For reference I would suggest that anyone finding this area interesting seek out the book by the famous alpinist Lionel Terray, Conquistadors of the Useless.

[@EverestMystery]

That is an awesome book and truly one of the greatest titles in the history mountaineering books! Thank you for watching!

[@Errcyco]

Why it’s so confusing to non-mountaineers… These people have been at a dangerous elevation for days ahead of the summit push. Imagine hiking up ice being able to take one breath every ten seconds.. even if you survive.. you’re doing so in a stupor. These strange choices are made under stress you and I can’t imagine and without oxygen going to the brain. It’s an incredible feat just to summit. May he rest in peace.. after the painful part for him family wanes a bit I hope they see the beauty in his grave being unique and one of the most incredible on planet earth.

[@Vietnamthwcountryhuman]

This story shows the weaknesses of individuals with such strong determination to succeed and not willing to admit defeat and perhaps trying again at another time.

[@annabizaro-doo-dah]

Im afraid its not just Szeilard, its our nature as human beings, that drives us to push these limits and its why we are the dominant species on planet earth.

[@Evilsivle77]

He's not selfish. He was willing to sacrifice himself to accomplish the impossible.

[@EverestMystery]

I agree with you and don't find these pursuits selfish - but, admittedly, had that idea put in my ear by my now ex-spouse on countless occasions. She knew who she was marrying....lol....these pursuits were burned into my soul. It was what I dreamed of, breathed in and out every moment of the day, etched into my heart and being. I'm just so happy that I survived some crazy stuff... Thanks for the channel support!!

[@czarcastic1458]

I quit flying Hot air balloons after my 3rd child. I started feeling bad about what happens to my family if i get hurt flying and leaving my young family with no father. It would have been selfish of me if i continued to fly.

[@alphaomega1351]

I'm gonna try and climb Everest in my birthday 🎂 suit. 😳

[@0nier0s]

The motivation of a mountaineer that you describe is exactly why people call mountaineer-parents selfish. Putting the need to go higher and push yourself over the need of your children. It's glorious, but very very selfish.

[@Thankyou423.3]

Keep killing the videos

[@lovingatlanta]

😭🙏

[@thitichayattt]

I think that we have a goal and a dream to go to the top of the world. There should be a team and very important oxygen. You should have a Sherpa with you as he will provide care and assistance in case of emergency.

[@EverestMystery]

Yes....for sure. I know several friends who have successfully climbed Everest without the use of bottled O's. However, each of them had someone within a reasonable distance to pick up the pieces if things had fallen apart. This story is surely a tough one....he should still be among the living....

[@minjabear7524]

What also struck me was his wife encouraging others to do the same. Kind of sick and sad.

[@downtowninorange]

Greetings from L.A.

[@EverestMystery]

Back at you, thank you for watching!

[@Delphisteve]

God bless...

[@RonaiHenrik]

There is a new, 1 hour long interview with his wife, Tímea Legindi. I have bookmarked it but not yet had the time to watch.

[@EverestMystery]

Thank you for watching and for making me aware

[@vickilawrence7207]

How heartbreaking and now his wife and child have to go on without him but it sounds like his wife is accepting of his decision to take that risk. I’m so sorry for those he left behind.

[@user-bq8qm6pz3v]

Im not a climber, so any input would be appreciated. Would it be possible for someone attempting a solo climb to be able to physically carry the oxygen theyd need up there solo ? Most videos you see on everest these days are comments like "they'd never make it without sherpas" which i dont disagree with. But he deserves respect for going for it. But i must agree, once you have a family, they are your priority or should be.

[@EverestMystery]

Thanks so much for your balanced and thoughtful comment, and thank you for watching. Part one of your question about carrying oxygen if you're not intending to use it....since it weighs so much, the effort would be so great as to probably require oxygen (I say half in jest); the question about no one being able to make it without sherpa is untrue actually, however since the Sherpa are the only ones allowed to fix the lines up the mountain it's essentially impossible to avoid that...in 1999 our team and the Ukranian team participated in fixing some lines (north side). Last part I do agree with, but I think that this gentleman and his wife had a very strong agreement and understanding of his goals, and they both knew what he was getting into (doesn't necessarily make it right, but it's not my business I guess).

[@user-bq8qm6pz3v]

@EverestMystery really appreciate your response. Very happy to "meet" someone whose achieved everest, congratulations, truly. Right I understand. I can't concieve myself getting up there under any circumstances. Let alone without oxygen, carrying everything yourself, melting the ice etc. Its truly mind-boggling to me. I remember watching a really old documentary. I'm sure you'll know the British climber. Chris Bonnington. I think it was called "everest, the hard way" or something similar. I think they were unassigned, ***unassisted *****actually on the mountain but had sherpas help carry the loads to the mountain if memory serves me right. Wow. Unrelated, but I've spent time in Ukraine during the Russian full scale invasion. Nothing to heroic. Just driving refugees, supplies etc. But the Ukrainian people have a special place in my heart. Amazing that you were up there actually securing the route. Can't be many people who've lived on the earth who could say that. Thank you so much for the response. I'm subbed, and will be binging this channel all day. Slava Ukraini Heroyam Slava 🇬🇧

[@adamwagner1987]

You shouldnt be solo in any adventure especially without O2. Also the commercialization of this Mt is just ridiculous ..

[@ILOVEJESUS321]

❤❤❤

[@abbynormal206]

Nice tribute.

[@kirstenhadik9785]

Thanks for respectfully pronouncing Szilard’s name correctly. It s been slaughtered to beyond recognition in other videos.

[@EverestMystery]

Yes, it surely has been....he deserves at least that! My short stories about the rescue on Annapurna show how mangled I can also make a name sometimes (which I soon fixed!).... Thanks for watching and for enjoying the channel!

[@karmicpopcorn6440]

Why does no one ever actually go up to these doors?

[@ashergoney]

Still Burning today from 1970s Darvaza Gas Crater in Turkmenistan's Karakorum Desert..

[@EverestMystery]

The Gates of Hell!

[@rosieposie9564]

I do not think anyone who is a mother or father of children under 16-18 years old should be climbing very high or technically difficult mountains with or without supplemental oxygen. Oxygen deprivation is not the only risk on those mountains and parents of young children should put their children first above adventures, callings, drives or ambitions.

[@digdougedy]

I did allot of crazy stuff in my youth. However, I cannot see the sense in risking your life for such an adventure when just starting a family. Yes it would it great for a fleeting moment if he had succeeded. All successful feats are just fleeting moments that mean little after they are done, except perhaps for a medal or a mention in a book. And now his family are left on their own without a husband or a father. Perhaps they will be financially OK, but life will never be the same. Surely there must be a better challenge than simply climbing without oxygen. It's like swimming as far as you can without breathing, but without being able to breath at the end... Sad RIP...

[@richagupta7591]

We as humans are very arrogant about living and death. But when it nears we realize how precious life is and was. We all are going to die someday, we came here with counted heartbeats and breaths. Sometimes our souls just choose to go in the way they are supposed to….

[@TzfasDoc]

nice jerry shirt

[@EverestMystery]

It glows in the dark! 🎸

[@thedocochoco]

Hey! That looks like a Jerry Garcia tshirt!

[@jessicapayne8622]

Brian blessed is one of the most adorable people I’ve ever met!

[@EverestMystery]

That's very cool that you met him!