Kenton Cool: Glocs climber scales Everest for 20th time
He said: "An Everest Summit is always extremely special….even the 20th"
Last updated 28th May 2026
Kenton Cool has successfully scaled Mount Everest for the 20th time, breaking his own record for the most ascents of the world's highest mountain by a non-Sherpa guide.
Kenton had previously mentioned that he might only climb Everest once more before pursuing smaller peaks.
But, the 52-year-old man from Bibury's journey might not be done, too, as he's been hinting he could do it again a few more times yet.
Record-breaking ascent
Cool was one of hundreds of climbers, alongside their Sherpa guides, to reach the 8,849-meter summit in recent days, despite a delay caused by a serac suspending dangerously over the route.
Reflecting on his latest achievement, Cool shared his gratitude on Facebook acknowledging those who made the expedition possible, particularly Dorjee Gyeljen Sherpa, whom he described as a "total legend."
Cool wrote: "An Everest Summit is always extremely special….even the 20th. Right now I sit in an empty @furtenbachadventures basecamp reflecting on the expedition enjoying the solitude to allow time to process."
Medical updates and conditions
A medical update posted by Cool on Instagram provided insights into the health conditions experienced by the expedition team during the climb.
According to the update, continuous medical coverage was provided by two expedition doctors from the Everest Base Camp up to Camp 2.
No cases of frostbite or major altitude-related medical emergencies were reported, though one member required helicopter evacuation due to a twisted arm.
The team also provided medical support and supplemental oxygen assistance to members of other climbing teams when needed.