In 1984, the Guinness Book of World Records named Sir Ranulph Fiennes the “World’s Greatest Living Explorer.” That was at the beginning of his amazing career as an adventurer and explorer. Thirty years later, in his 70s, Fiennes hasn’t slowed down one bit.
Fiennes’ accomplishments include being the first person to cross Antarctica on foot, the first person to visit both Poles by surface means, the oldest Brit to climb Mt. Everest, the only person to circle the world along the polar axis by land and sea, and this is just the beginning of his death-defying adventures.
My favorite Fiennes story followed his failed solo unsupported walk to the North Pole. After suffering severe frostbite on all the fingers on his left hand, Fiennes had to abandon the adventure. The surgeon recommended he wait several months before amputation, to allow possible regrowth of nerves. Tired of the pain, Fiennes amputated his own fingertips. With a saw!
Perhaps his craziest adventure was running seven marathons, on seven continents, on seven consecutive days, just four months after suffering a heart attack and undergoing double bypass surgery. Here’s his post-surgery marathon schedule:
- 26 October – Race 1: Patagonia – South America
- 27 October – Race 2: Falkland Islands – “Antarctica”
- 28 October – Race 3: Sydney – Australia
- 29 October – Race 4: Singapore – Asia
- 30 October – Race 5: London – Europe
- 31 October – Race 6: Cairo – Africa
- 1 November – Race 7: New York – North America
Reflecting on these marathons, Fiennes said, “In retrospect, I wouldn’t have done it. I wouldn’t do it again.” Wimp.
When asked about what he considers to be his greatest accomplishment, Fiennes responded in his classic upper-class British accent, “Actually, it was being happily married for thirty-four years (to childhood sweetheart, Lady Virginia Pepper Fiennes). I was incredibly lucky.”
Conclusion: A happy marriage is an exciting adventure and a worthy accomplishment to pursue.
Question: What are you trying to accomplish with your life?