Nepal’s Mountaineer Purnima Shrestha named in CNN’s “The Extreme Athletes who Pushed Limits in 2024”

Nepali mountaineer Purnima Shrestha has earned global recognition, and CNN included her on this year’s prestigious list of “The Extreme Athletes Who Pushed Limits in 2024.” Known for her exceptional achievements in high-altitude mountaineering, Purnima created history this year by summiting Mount Everest three times in just 13 days — a world record.

Her incredible ascents took place on May 12, May 19, and May 25, 2024 showcasing unparalleled endurance and determination. Reflecting on the grueling challenge, Purnima told CNN Sport: “My body was drained. I felt like a stupid girl. I often felt like giving up this ambition. But I dreamt and succeeded. I insisted on my dream. Focusing on my dream was the hardest thing.”

Beyond Everest, Purnima is also the first Nepali woman to climb the world’s seventh tallest mountain, Mt. Dhaulagiri, which she achieved in 2021 alongside Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Akita.