A 9 year old on Everest?

[MelNino]

Ok, I did think the 13 year old could do it....but a 9 year old? Didn't Jordan have more experience?


http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapc....html?hpt=Sbin

[BlueDog]

I thought about this the other day when I was reading it on an Everest blog.

IMHO, I think that the 9 year old, being the son of a Nepalese Sherpa, is much more genetically disposed for such conditions that Jordan is. He's also born into a culture that has more experience with this mountain than any other.

When Jordan first announced he was going to do Everest, my thoughts were that it MUST be harmful to such a young developing brain. However, after discussions with a close friend that work in the medical field, she pointed out to me that a younger brain is much more resilient and able to repair/adapt to any damage than our old gray mellons. So, if anything, we should be more worried about the folks trying for the "oldest climber" records.

[MelNino]

Good point, his being a Sherpa is definitely a plus. I hope he gets another peak or two before going to the Big E.

[Rich]

My bet is he'll be fine and probably will run up the mountain. He practically lives at altitude already. Like Bluedog said, his brain is still developing and will develop out of any damage done. Good luck, buddy!

[aloegel]

9 years of adaptation must be long enough

[Brad]

I thought about this the other day when I was reading it on an Everest blog.

IMHO, I think that the 9 year old, being the son of a Nepalese Sherpa, is much more genetically disposed for such conditions that Jordan is. He's also born into a culture that has more experience with this mountain than any other.

When Jordan first announced he was going to do Everest, my thoughts were that it MUST be harmful to such a young developing brain. However, after discussions with a close friend that work in the medical field, she pointed out to me that a younger brain is much more resilient and able to repair/adapt to any damage than our old gray mellons. So, if anything, we should be more worried about the folks trying for the "oldest climber" records.

So, I guess I should call off my attempt.

[TheZman1]

Growing up at that altitude and climate his body at 9 years old is probably better conditioned for the climb that most 20 year old men. I think it will be like a "walk in the park" for him.

[BlueDog]

So, I guess I should call off my attempt.

But then you'll miss out on the never-to-be-outdone photo op for the "Where has your STP fleece been?" thread!

[climatestudentuk]

Good on him, but I'm sure there are many more sherpas who have done this but it hasnt made it to press?

[JohnStain]

Yeah, I agree with BlueDog. People living there are genetically adapt to the weather conditions there so it is easier for them to stay warmer etc.

But still pretty incredible though.