Conrad Anker Instagram – David Breashears stands out as a mountain polymath. From the 1975 onsight first ascent of “Perilous Journey” 5.11b X in Eldorado Canyon to the 1985 ascent of Everest with Dick Bass, his climbs were at the forefront of climbing. From the head games of Eldo to the opening of the 7 summits fever, David was adept at all disciplines.
In film David, brought mountains to people around the world. The 1998 IMAX “Everest” film is a testament to his ability to film in difficult conditions. In 1999 with the Mallory discovery David and I became closer. He was fascinated by the disappearance of the English climbers in 1924.
David’s climate work with GlacierWorks, using historical repeat photography, highlighted the change the Himalayan crysosphere is undergoing. We would talk about the change we had seen in the mountains that were dear to us. Seen in this image, David shared GlacierWorks images and his own archive with the people at Everest Base Camp.
I’ll remember David for the willingness to introduce me to people. He realized people are what make the world wonderful and are the basis of a well functioning team. May we all embody this.
This past week as I hiked out of the Khumbu I was reminded of his penchant for people. The seasoned climbers that worked with him the 80s reminisced about his humor and energy. The children of these climbers, now adults, recalled how he would teach photography. He was there for people.
With respect for David and empathy for his family and loved ones. | Posted on 23/Mar/2024 13:28:02
