French Climber Benjamin Vedrines Sets Record Time for K2 Summit

French climber Benjamin Vedrines has achieved a historic feat by reaching the summit of K2 in just under 11 hours. On Sunday, the 32-year-old climber set a new speed record by completing the ascent in 10 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds. This remarkable achievement was accomplished without the use of supplemental oxygen, underscoring Vedrines’ expertise in high-speed climbs.

Vedrines, renowned for his high-speed ascents, began his climb from the K2 base camp just after midnight on Saturday. Despite his previous attempt in 2022 being thwarted by hypoxia, he returned with a renewed determination and maturity. His successful summit marks a personal victory and a symbolic return to the mountain where he faced significant challenges.

K2, standing at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet), is the second-highest mountain in the world and is known for its technical difficulty, earning it the moniker “Savage Mountain.” Vedrines, who previously set a speed record on Pakistan’s Broad Peak in 2022, continues to cement his status as one of France’s leading climbers.

His latest achievement on K2 not only highlights his exceptional climbing skills but also adds a notable record to his impressive list of accomplishments. The ascent of K2 remains a highly sought-after milestone in the climbing community, and Vedrines’ record-setting climb further emphasizes the allure and challenge of this formidable peak.