It's time to talk

On 25th October, or 1st of November 2012, I will be holding a talk at The Wentworth Club, Surrey, about my recent feat of the worlds highest mountain, Mt Everest.

This talk will give you a true insight into the mountain, the people of the khumbu and the climb.

I hope to have the Eton boys that carried the London 2012 Olympic Flag to base camp present and a special guest introducing the evening.

Please keep an eye on www.dosummitgood.com for confirmation of date/time and more.

Time to reflect on Everest

Back bouldering

It has been to long since I had been out on natural rock but this weekend Tommy and I headed to Portland for some bouldering. A early start and a sunny start set the day up. With the sun out we got climbing. Tommy as usual crushing the problems and same old story with me. Getting a couple of moves and find myself falling off. I need to climb more to over come this and get stronger. Grip is just not good enough.

It was great being back outside climbing. Thanks Tommy for a good day and some awesome pictures.

From the mountains to the sea.

Post Everest I have been getting involved in a bit of horse riding, kiting and now sailing.

My brother invited dad and I for the day on Nomad 1, skippered by Lou. We where moored up at Gosport where we spent the night on board before setting out to sea.

A day trip to Chichester harbour for lunch was on the agenda. Low winds in the morning for the journey where predicted but Lou assured us this would change for the return. The wind picked up on the way back and we had the boat sailing at about 7 knts which was plenty for my first time at the helm.

I had the challenge of mooring the boat back at port and I must say I think I did a pretty good job.

I am now awaiting another invite out into the ocean and aboard Nomad 1. I had a great day at sea.

Big thanks to Andy, Leanne, Dad and Lou for a great day.

Live on BBC Berkshire

Today I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Tony Blackburn live on BBC Radio Berkshire. Few nerves before the broadcast but after a second or two sitting in the studio I felt at ease.

It was great being interviewed by the legend but it was a shame the interview was more about training than it was about climbing Everest.

Another event that has made this whole experience a very special one.

Summit photo signed by Lord Sebastian Coe

Riding Waves and Horses

I was back in the water last week for some well needed surfing and spent the week in Cornwall. Rest and recovery being the objective. Body feeling worn out and fatigued this was the perfect fix. Surfing, coastal air and plenty of down time was just what I needed.

A leisurely walk in Bude

2 to 5ft waves hit the coast line, perfect for an easy surf and to get back into it. I caught some good waves and had plenty of fun. Surfed at Polzeath and Watergate Bay and just loved being back in the water.

Chilling out and taking in the views at Polzeath

A moody afternoon on the hillside at Polzeath

It was great just chilling out with Natalie and her family, relaxed days always finished off with a few pints.

A well deserved pint, Mmmmm

We managed to organise the food tasting for our wedding too while we were down there. Food is simple but amazing and managed to get some great recommendations on wines to compliment the dishes. The 21st December will be here before I know it and it's a day I can't wait for.

Being the adventurous man that I am, I had my first horse riding lesson. Natalie being a keen and experienced rider with a big passion for horses made me think if I could ride, what a great hobby to share together. I managed to get into a canter and really enjoyed being in the saddle. Hopefully back next week for another go. 

A future polo player in the making

Back to work now and looking forward to a visit from Rob Casserley, a team member on Everest. Be good to catch up with him next week and share stories of the summit.

Seeing His Holiness the Dalai Lama

Whilst I was away climbing, Natalie had heard his Holiness the Dalai Lama was in the UK doing public talks. When I returned from the Himalaya, I was told I would be going to listen to him in Manchester.

After my experiences in the Himalaya, being blessed by Lama Geshe and being around Buddhists for 2 months, seeing the Dalai Lama was something that really excited me.

We drove up north, popping into Wakefield to see my Nan and Granddad. Then we headed to Manchester.

Sunday morning we headed to the Manchester Arena and took our seats. A slideshow of pictures of Tibetan monasteries and the Himalaya’s instantly calmed me. So many familiar pictures brought back great memories. A demonstration of Tibetan dancing took place then hisHoliness entered.

The Dalai Lama started by telling us he is no miracle worker, he does not have magical powers or ointments to make things better. Making a joke of this and telling a story about how if he did he would open ointment shops and make a fortune. Such a warm, friendly and humorous human being, someone you would want to be around all the time if you could.

The messages that he puts across are logical and can be applied to life no matter what religion or belief. He did not preach about Buddhism or try and convert. He talked calmly about our approach to life and how we can enhance it by small changes, how we think and how the way we think influences the way we feel.

There is only one religion and that's love is something that was mentioned and has so much meaning behind it. Love all and let all be loved.

I want to thank Natalie for organising such an amazing weekend. It was amazing experiencing the Dalai Lama, hearing messages that I will remember forever.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama