Sir, – With reference to Gerry Moriarty’s article on the youngest Everest Irishman (Life & Culture, May 1st), I wish to clarify for the record that my son, Anselm Murphy, was 24 when he summited Everest on May 21st, 2008. This was reported at the time by Lorna Siggins, as indeed was his climbing of the more challenging Kangchenjunga in May 2011.
Though born and based in London, having an Irish father and holding an Irish passport (and no other) and greatly valuing his Irish citizenship, must surely qualify him to be included in the list of Irish summiteers of Everest, particularly as he is the youngest Irish citizen to have done so to date.
I do not in any way wish to detract from the great achievement of Limerickman Mark Quinn who summited last year when he was 26 and also wish the 18-year- old Belfast student Matthew Taylor a safe and successful ascent to the top next year.