Doha, Qatar, October 20, 2024: Qatar’s record-setting mountaineer Sheikha Asma bint Thani Al-Thani has made history as the first Arab and Qatari to complete the Explorers Grand Slam.
The Qatari champion summited the Carstensz Pyramid (4,884 metres) in Central Papua, Indonesia at 08:22 local time on October 11 - the last phase of the prestigious adventure challenge. Fewer than 75 people in history have completed this incredible feat.
Speaking to the media, Sheikha Asma said the achievement was the outcome of her determination to achieve a 2014 dream to break boundaries.
Along the way, each summit represented a step closer to realizing her potential but, more importantly, a testament to staying true to one's dreams, even when the path ahead seems impossible, she added.
The Qatari champion expressed her deep gratitude to everyone who supported her and made this journey possible, starting with the encouragement of her family, friends and teammates, and the support teams who stood by her until her dream came true.
The Explorers Grand Slam involves climbing the Seven Summits and reaching both the North and South Poles.
"In doing so, I hope to inspire future generations in the region and beyond to dream big and push beyond boundaries," said Sheikha Asma.
"Completing the Explorers Grand Slam is not just about the mountains I've climbed but the barriers I've broken and, with perseverance, any challenge can be overcome.
"These achievements are not just personal milestones, they are about showing the younger generation that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter how impossible they may seem. I hope to inspire them to believe in themselves, to push their limits and to know that with perseverance and determination they can achieve great things," she pointed out.