A CELEBRATION OF THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE AND ADVENTURES OF ‘THE WORLD’S GREATEST LIVING EXPLORER’
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On the eve of his 80th birthday, Sir Ranulph Fiennes looks back at his remarkable life and adventures.
He’s climbed Everest not long after a heart bypass operation, he’s run seven marathons on seven continents, he’s hauled loaded sledges across both polar ice caps and he’s circumnavigated the earth…
Ran Fiennes truly is the world’s greatest explorer, and this book celebrates his 80th birthday by showcasing his greatest achievements in his own words. Featuring interviews and tributes from his friends, colleagues and admirers, Around the World in 80 Years celebrates the incredible life of a legendary explorer.
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Reviews
Fiennes' rattling Boys' Own prose, which makes light of drama, is extremely readable
Always that little bit further and always the best. It is why, even to this day, I remain in awe at all he has accomplished.
His ground-breaking expeditions have redefined what is possible, but have also ignited a fire within the hearts of those seeking their own extraordinary journeys.
That sunny March day on top of the Eiger represented the beginning of the end of our days climbing together. Looking at Ran's grizzly, bearded face, I was yet to realise what he had planted within me, but I knew it was there. As the mist rolled in, for a while it looked like we might be stuck, but I didn't mind at all. I simply had to channel my inner Ran.
His public persona is that of the intrepid man of action overcoming insuperable odds to achieve feats of superhuman endurance and danger. But with the children he was gentle, patient and kind.
Ran seeks out dangers because the experience of intense situations such as facing a polar bear or a heavy snowstorm, and his ability to overcome them, feels like a confirmation of his own vitality.
If an opportunity were to come again to step out of life . . . there is no question as to whom I would wish for a companion. I would go with Ran.
No great experience in life is worth anything without overcoming your fears, I usually say when I give
talks. Then I think of Ran. I wanted to say how impressed I am that he just keeps going and never stops.