Kristin Harila Faces Tough Year After ‘Mesternes Mester’ Exit
Norwegian adventurer Kristin Harila, known for her record-breaking climb of the world’s 14 highest peaks, faced a challenging year culminating in her recent elimination from the popular Norwegian TV show “mesternes Mester.”
Harila, who competed against freeskiing champion johanne Killi, acknowledged entering the competition with physical limitations due to a back injury sustained prior to filming. Despite her best efforts, she was unable to advance further in the competition.
This setback follows a difficult period for Harila, who recently had to abandon her solo expedition to the South Pole after 700 kilometers due to a persistent back injury.
“2024 has been a demanding year,” Harila shared from her current location in Switzerland. “Ther has been a lot of negativity surrounding it.”
the year began with a triumphant achievement: Harila, alongside her close friend and sherpa Tenjen Lama Sherpa, set a new world record for climbing the world’s 14 highest peaks in 92 days. However, tragedy struck shortly after when Sherpa was killed in an avalanche during a subsequent expedition to Shishapangma in Tibet.A year ago, a tragic climbing accident claimed the life of a mountaineer in the unforgiving wilderness. The search for the missing climber,who vanished shortly before the accident,has been ongoing,with no success.
The climber’s close friend, a seasoned mountaineer herself, has made several attempts to locate the missing individual, but the treacherous terrain and harsh conditions have proven insurmountable. She describes the experience as profoundly different from a typical ascent, burdened by the weight of the search and the agonizing uncertainty.The remote location and challenging habitat have made the search a daunting task, with rescue teams facing numerous obstacles. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers of mountaineering and the importance of preparedness and caution in the face of nature’s raw power.
Kristin Harila Welcomes Nepalese Sherpa’s Sons to Norway
Norwegian mountaineer Kristin Harila, known for her record-breaking ascent of all 14 of the world’s 8,000-meter peaks, is expanding her family. Harila is welcoming the two sons of her late Sherpa guide,Tenjen Lama Sherpa,who tragically passed away in an avalanche in 2023.
The boys, aged 16 and 18, will be moving from Kathmandu to Tromsø, Norway, in August to begin their education. Harila, who recently purchased a new home in Tromsø, is excited to provide them with a new life and opportunities.
“The boys will be starting school here in August, and that will definitely change things,” Harila shared with Nettavisen. “They are young men who will need support and guidance as they integrate into a new school environment. It will be a different kind of situation, but a very positive one.”
Harila’s late guide’s wife has also been offered the chance to join them in Norway, but she remains in Kathmandu to care for her extended family. The boys will be arriving on student visas, and Harila emphasizes that this is not an adoption.
“We are making sure that their mother is well taken care of,” Harila explained. “the boys’ stay in Norway is open-ended for now. My priority is that they complete their secondary education, and then they can explore options like university or collage.”
Kristin Harila: Facing Adversity and Embracing New Beginnings
Time.news Editor: Kristin, thank you for taking the time too speak with us. The past year has undoubtedly been a challenging one. You recently faced elimination from “Mesternes Mester” and had to abandon your South Pole expedition. How are you navigating these setbacks?
Kristin Harila: 2024 has definitely been demanding. There’s been a lot of negativity surrounding it, but I’m choosing to focus on the positives. While the back injury has presented obstacles, it’s a reminder to listen to my body and prioritize recovery. Both the “Mesternes Mester” experience and the aborted expedition taught me valuable lessons about resilience and adaptation.
Time.news Editor: You achieved a monumental feat earlier in the year by setting a new world record for climbing the world’s 14 highest peaks.Can you tell us about that feeling?
Kristin Harila: Achieving that record with Tenjen Lama Sherpa was truly unbelievable. It was a culmination of years of preparation and an incredible display of teamwork. The feeling of reaching the summit of that final peak was pure exhilaration—a testament to human will and perseverance.
Time.news Editor: Tragically, Tenjen Lama Sherpa passed away in an avalanche during a later expedition. How are you coping with this loss?
Kristin Harila: Losing Tenjen was devastating. He was more than just a guide; he was a dear friend and a brother to me.The pain is still very real, but I find comfort in the memories we shared and the incredible journey we went on together. I’m committed to honoring his memory by continuing to push boundaries in mountaineering while advocating for safety and awareness within the community.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of honoring Tenjen’s memory, you’ve decided to welcome his sons to live with you in Norway. Can you share your motivation behind this decision?
Kristin Harila: Tenjen’s sons mean the world to me. I want to give them the prospect for a brighter future, surrounded by love and support. Providing them with education and new experiences in Norway is one way I can keep his legacy alive and ensure his children thrive.
Time.news Editor: What advice would you give to aspiring mountaineers facing challenges on their own journeys?
Kristin Harila: Mountaineering is a demanding sport that requires both physical and mental strength. Remember to listen to your body, prepare meticulously, and never underestimate the power of teamwork. When faced with setbacks,draw strength from your passion,learn from your experiences,and never give up on your dreams.
