A 75-year-old American mountaineer has completed the prestigious Seven Summits Challenge after successfully reaching the top of Mount Everest on May 18, 2026, marking one of the oldest recorded completions of the global climbing feat.
Viorel Stirbu, popularly known as “Wally,” completed his final summit with support from the Sherpa team of 14 Peaks Expedition, concluding a multi-year journey across the world’s highest continental peaks. His Everest ascent came less than a year after he successfully climbed Mount Manaslu at the age of 74, also under the guidance of 14 Peaks Expedition.
Completing the Seven Summits at 75
The Seven Summits Challenge requires climbers to reach the highest peak on each of the seven continents, with Everest representing the final and most demanding ascent. With his successful Everest climb, Stirbu has now completed one of mountaineering’s most respected achievements, spanning expeditions across multiple continents and extreme environments. Expedition organizers said his journey reflects years of perseverance, disciplined preparation, and strong mental resilience in high-altitude conditions.
Journey of Determination and Endurance
Stirbu, a retired engineer from the Chicago Fire Department, has been pursuing high-altitude mountaineering in his later years, steadily building experience across major peaks worldwide. His Everest ascent was supported by experienced Sherpa guides who assisted the team through route navigation, acclimatization, and summit logistics during the final push. Tashi Lakpa Sherpa, Chief Executive Officer of 14 Peaks Expedition, praised the climber’s determination and spirit throughout the expedition.
“From standing on the summit of Mt. Manaslu at the age of 74 to now reaching the top of the world on Everest, Wally’s journey is a powerful reminder that determination, courage, and passion know no age limit,” he said.
Support Team and Safe Completion
The expedition team confirmed that Stirbu successfully reached the summit of Everest under stable weather conditions during the early hours of May 18. He was supported throughout the climb by experienced Sherpa guides who ensured a safe ascent and descent from the death zone. Organizers added that completing the Seven Summits at 75 places him among a rare group of climbers who have achieved the challenge at an advanced age.
Celebrating a Historic Mountaineering Milestone
The achievement has been described as a landmark moment in modern mountaineering, highlighting both human endurance and the growing participation of older climbers in extreme adventure sports. 14 Peaks Expedition extended congratulations to Stirbu, calling his journey an inspiring example of lifelong determination and passion for the mountains.
