Ex-Army Commando becomes youngest Briton to summit world's 14 highest peaks
A former Army Commando has successfully reached the summit of the world's 14 highest peaks at the age of 29, becoming the youngest British man to achieve the feat.
Tejan Gurung, who was inspired by his father and the work of the Brigade of Gurkhas, joined the Royal Engineers in 2014, later qualifying for the All Arms Commando Course.
He served with 24 Commando Regiment within 3 Commando Brigade for six years, where he developed the mental resolve, physical robustness and core military skills required for demanding environments.
Throughout his 14-peak journey, Mr Gurung demonstrated the endurance and mental strength required to cope with high-altitude climbing.
His military training, which honed his leadership, strategic thinking and physical fitness, played a pivotal role in his success as he faced some of the most dangerous and demanding environments on the planet.
He said: "On Cho Oyu [a mountain on the China-Nepal border] I had to navigate at the summit using GPS in a white-out with only four metres visibility.
"My military skills and drills were instrumental in helping me through this.
"Throughout the climb, I treated my team as I did my military family – you lean on one another and overcome the obstacle together.
"This strong mindset and physical robustness, which is instilled in the military, not only helped me throughout the journey but those around me - we moved as a unit."
Reflecting on his achievement since leaving the Army, he said: "Having served in the military and left at a young age, I want to emphasise that the end of an Army career is not the end, nor is changing your path.
"If you are fully committed to your goals and give 100%, you will achieve great things.
"But you have to cherish the journey - and with a smile - as you will encounter challenges, you will fall.
"But the comeback makes that journey more rewarding."
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