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Peter Hillary  

Mountaineer, Author, Adventure Travel Company Leader

Peter Hillary has accomplished significant feats in his lifetime, traversing some of the planet's most extreme environments. His legacy, closely tied to that of his father, Sir Edmund Hillary, first burgeoned when Sir Edmund became the inaugural climber to summit Mount Everest. This familial heritage of exploration set the stage for Peter Hillary's own adventures.

Growing up immersed in tales of his father's expeditions, Hillary was naturally drawn to mountaineering. His ascent of Everest in 1990 marked a historical moment, as he and his father became the first parent-child duo to conquer the peak. Alongside this achievement, both Hillarys are recognized for pioneering new routes to the South Pole overland from the Antarctic Coast.

Following his father's death, Hillary was honored by the Queen of England with the presentation of his father’s Garter Banner, symbolizing Sir Edmund's induction into the Queen's 24 Knights of the Order of the Garter. In remembrance of the 55th anniversary of his father's quintessential climb, Hillary actively raises funds for educational and medical facilities in the Himalayas. His dedication extends to his pursuit of the "7th summit," aiming to scale Mt. McKinley, Denali in Alaska.

Hillary's life has been marked by groundbreaking expeditions. He was the first to ski down Mt. Aspiring, known as the Matterhorn of the Southern Hemisphere. His ventures with his father and astronaut Neil Armstrong to the North Pole, and his role in the first high-altitude traverse of the Himalayan Range in 1981, underscore his pioneering spirit.

Today, Hillary leads an adventure travel company, guiding aspiring climbers through formidable ascents. His role in the National Geographic film "Surviving Everest" commemorates his father’s legendary ascent. Beyond exploration, Hillary is a prolific author, having written five mountaineering books and one children's book. His experiences have been featured across esteemed platforms such as "The Late Show with David Letterman," "Good Morning America," the Sydney Morning Herald, and The New York Times.

In his presentations, Hillary discusses the synthesis of judgment, excitement in uncertainty, and the meticulous balance between risk and caution. His speeches are a blend of riveting narratives and insightful reflections on achieving remarkable objectives through meticulous preparation, relentless perseverance, and unwavering passion. His presentations are enhanced by DVD footage, bringing his thrilling adventures to life, and are celebrated for their engaging, informative, and entertaining qualities.

Speech Topics


Giving Something Back

K2 Crisis: Survive and Thrive

To the Ends of the Earth

Giving Something Back: The Legacy of Sir Edmund Hillary

Peter reflects on a life well-lived, as he shares the triumphs and great philanthropy of his father, legendary climber, beekeeper and global philanthropist Sir Edmund Hillary.

Climb Your Own Everest

Peter shares entertaining stories and the principles that enabled the first two generations of one family to summit Everest.

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