PM funds first step in Johann Peries’ public campaign to climb Mount Everest again

By Shannon Jayawardena

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday funded the first step in Johann Peries’ public campaign to climb Mount Everest again in his second attempt.

In his maiden effort in April 2016, Peries made the decision to turn back, which eventually saved his life. This year he says he is determined to finish the journey.

In the fresh effort there is an opportunity for every Sri Lankan to sponsor each step Johann is slated to take on the mountain for Rs. 100, as the whole expedition requires a financial commitment of $ 58,600. Every step sponsored will go towards financing the expedition and covering all associated costs.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe said: “In 2016 they took up the challenge of climbing Mount Everest and were the first Sri Lankans to go there. While Jayanthi made it to the top, Johann made a wise decision and he is here with us to try again.”

“In fact I asked Johann, isn’t it enough to have done it once, why would you want to do it a second time and he said that he must get to the top. So now let’s all get together to back him to be the second Sri Lankan to climb Mount Everest. I have been the first sponsor and I have put the pin right on top. If you can fill it up to that, then he will have all the support to get to the top,” he added.

Peries and Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala were the first Sri Lankans to attempt the climb whereas while Kuru-Utumpala was able to complete the task, Peries after climbing 8,400 metres had to return to base due to technical difficulties. 

This year however with the backing of the public, a much larger team led by the International Mountain Guides (IMG), IMG’s logistical support, Sherpa and guide support, all climbing permits, expedition food and accommodation, communications, oxygen, insurance, helicopter rescue and regular access to the IMG medical clinic at the mountain’s base camp, Peries is determined and ready.

Peries stated: “People kept asking me why do you want to go back and I think there are a lot of sentiments that have come my way. It’s something very personal. I think people who are passionate about things always want to achieve their goal and that’s what it is for me as well. I know that I am ready as I have already been there.”

He also said: “I had a fabulous partner last time and we made it together. That is the only thing that is going to be lacking this time. She was a great strength and support to me and I think we were to each other. Saying that, I am someone who is very spiritual and I believe that I will have the strength and courage to do this and make it to the top.”

After getting back from his first expedition and losing nearly 10 kg, Johann was back at it and training within three months of recovery. He is now both physically and mentally prepared to complete the two-month-long expedition.

The first Sri Lankan to reach the top of Mount Everest and Johann’s partner in his first expedition, Kuru-Utumpala stated: “Last time with only another 450 metres to the top of Mount Everest, Johann had so much courage to make the right decision to turn back when his life was in danger. Not many people have the courage to do this and what Johann did was a testimony to his courage and for me he is a hero.”

At the press conference the official website, www.johanneverest2018.com, was launched by the Prime Minister as he sponsored the first step of the entire campaign while Prof. Maitree Wickremasinghe sponsored the second step. The Rs. 100 per step can be purchased from the website and at all cutting station outlets, Waters Edge and The Wallawwa.

Pic by Lasantha Kumara