Harriet Tuckey

Shines an entirely new light on the great expedition - a riveting read, full of surprises

The most important addition to the story of Everest.

Gripping... finally establishes [Pugh] as the real hero of the expedition.

The untold story of Griffith Pugh, the man who made it possible

WINNER OF THE OUTSTANDING GENERAL SPORTS WRITING AWARD, BRITISH SPORTS BOOK AWARDS 
 
WINNER OF THE BOARDMAN TASKER PRIZE 
 
WINNER OF THE MOUNTAIN &amp; WILDERNESS PRIZE, BANFF FESTIVAL 
 
WINNER OF THE TONY LOTHIAN AWARD, BIOGRAPHERS’ CLUB 
 
For the first time, drawing upon previously unseen diaries and letters, rare archive material and interviews, Everest – The First Ascent tells the remarkable story of Griffith Pugh, the forgotten team member whose scientific breakthroughs ensured the world’s highest mountain could be climbed. A doctor and physiologist, Griffith Pugh revolutionised almost every aspect of British high-altitude mountaineering, transforming the climbers’ attitude to oxygen, the clothes they wore, their equipment, fluid intake and acclimatisation. 
 
Yet, far from receiving the acclaim he was due, he was met with suspicion and ridicule. His scientific contributions were, quite simply, at odds with old-fashioned notions of derring-do and the gentlemanly amateurism that dogged the sport. 
 
Later in his career, his impact in helping athletes enhance their performance lasts to this day in the fields of cycling, swimming and running. 
 
This insightful biography shows Pugh to be troubled, abrasive, yet brilliant. Eight years in the writing, closely researched, and told with unflinching honesty by Pugh’s daughter, Harriet Tuckey, Everest – The First Ascent is the compelling portrait of an unlikely hero.

Everest - The First Ascent

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Harriet Tuckey

Praise for Everest - The First Ascent

Shines an entirely new light on the great expedition - a riveting read, full of surprises

The most important addition to the story of Everest.

Marvellously enjoyable and exciting...

Shines an entirely new light on the great expedition - a riveting read, full of surprises

The most important addition to the story of Everest.

Marvellously enjoyable and exciting...

Shines an entirely new light on the great expedition - a riveting read, full of surprises

The most important addition to the story of Everest.

Marvellously enjoyable and exciting...

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