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Nadav Ben YehudaIsraeli climber
Country:
 Israel |
Content:
- Biography of Nadav Ben-Yehuda
- Army Service and Mountaineering Passion
- Journey to Everest
- A Heroic Act
- Recognition and Recovery
- A Symbolic Flag
Biography of Nadav Ben-Yehuda
Early Life and Interest in MountaineeringNadav Ben-Yehuda, an Israeli mountaineer, was born in 1988 in Israel. From a young age, he developed an interest in mountaineering and extreme sports, particularly parkour. Alongside his friends, Nadav began training in the city, scaling numerous glass skyscrapers while occasionally venturing abroad to climb peaks.
Army Service and Mountaineering Passion
Like all Israeli youths, Ben-Yehuda served three years in the army. He credits his military training for giving him the strength to accomplish his feat. After completing his army service, Nadav enrolled in university to study law. However, the allure of the mountains was too strong, and he continued pursuing his passion.
Journey to Everest
As part of his training, Nadav participated in a stair climbing championship in one of Tel Aviv's skyscrapers. He and a group of fellow climbers planned to summit Mount Everest in late May, aiming to become the youngest Israeli to conquer the mountain. During their expedition, the young mountaineers encountered other climbers who were struggling, some even succumbing to the harsh conditions.
A Heroic Act
Approximately 300 meters from the summit, Nadav noticed a nearly lifeless figure covered in snow. While other climbers passed by without offering help, Nadav recognized the man as Aydin Irmak, a Turkish mountaineer who had become separated from his group and lost some of his equipment. Without hesitation, Nadav carried Aydin on his back, enduring freezing temperatures and exchanging gloves and warm clothing until they reached the nearest camp.
Recognition and Recovery
Experienced climbers initially found it hard to believe that Ben-Yehuda had interrupted his ascent to help a stranger, especially a Turkish national. Despite both suffering from severe frostbite, Nadav and Aydin were eventually rescued. Nadav's heroic act garnered national and international attention. He met with influential politicians who commended his bravery and nobility.
A Symbolic Flag
After fully recovering from his frostbite, Nadav received a flag from the President of Israel, Shimon Peres. The president urged him to hoist the flag on his next climb. On September 19, 2012, Nadav planted the flag on the summit of Mount Kazbek, at an altitude exceeding 5000 meters. The flag symbolized the love and support he received upon returning from Everest.
In the years following his Everest expedition, Nadav continued to pursue mountaineering and became an inspiration to many aspiring climbers. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and selflessness in extreme situations.
