[Edmund Hillary interviewed by John Gordon]

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Reference
32424
Media type
Audio
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Rights Information
Reference
32424
Media type
Audio
Duration
00:16:02
Credits
RNZ Collection
Hillary, Edmund, 1919-2008, Interviewee
Gordon, John, 1898-1985? (b.1898, d.1985?), Interviewer

Edmund Hillary interviewed by New Zealand broadcaster John Gordon before leaving to take part in the British Mount Everest Expedition of 1953, lead by Colonel John Hunt.

They discuss the similarities between New Zealand climbing conditions and those in the Himalayan mountains. He says one of the key qualities for an Everest climber is the ability " to be miserable for a long period."

He discusses the long walk in to Everest, fitness, and diet. This will be his third trip to the Everest region. George Lowe is the other New Zealander in the party. The rest are all British climbers. The Times newspaper in London is providing much of the finance.

He gives his opinion of why other attempts to summit Everest have failed and explains the affects of altitude sickness.

He explains how it is hoped one of three parties will succeed in their attempt on the summit.

He talks about equipment - noting that the expedition's sleeping bags will come from New Zealand, as they are some of the best in the world.

He ends by talking about the Sherpa people and their lifestyle.