Mountaineers

ANDY KIRKPATRICK.

“ANDY WAS THE MOST INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKER I HAVE EVER LISTENED TO. HIS PRESENTATION WAS A PERFECT WAY TO FINISH THE EVENT - ON A HIGH. THERE WERE SO MANY WAYS WE COULD LINK THIS TO OUR JOB.”

Major J D Foster, HQ Educational and Training Service (Army)

Andy Kirkpatrick is one of the UK’s top mountaineers. He has climbed some of the most technically difficult routes in the world and is particularly well known for his winter expeditions.

Andy’s mountaineering achievements alone demonstrate his tenacity and focus. He has climbed Yosemite’s El Capitan 15 times including a 12-day solo ascent of the mighty Reticent Wall. His 15-day winter ascent of the Lafaille Route on the Petit Dru is considered one of the most difficult climbs in Europe and he also successfully completed the first winter ascent of the east face if Mermoz in Patagonia, Argentina. In 2011 he soloed the Troll Wall in Norway – the only vertical mile in Europe.

KEY THEMES Motivation | Over-coming Obstacles | Self-belief

Andy’s journey from remedial student to internationally acclaimed mountaineer, writer and speaker is a testament to his determination to succeed. Andy is severely dyslexic; a condition diagnosed after he left school, and began his adult life with no qualifications. Today however he funds his expeditions working as a freelance writer as well as being a motivational speaker. His first book Psychovertical, published in 2008, won the Boardman Tasker Prize for mountain literature. His second book, Cold Wars, was published in October 2011.

Andy’s story is an inspiration to anyone who ever doubted their ability to succeed. A captivating speaker who entertains and inspires in equal measure.

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