KATHMANDU: Veteran Spanish mountaineer Carlos Soria Fontán has created history by scaling Mt Manaslu at the age of 86.

“Carlos, along with climbing guide Mikel Sherpa, stood atop the world’s eighth--highest mountain at around 5:30 am on September 26,” said Chhang Dawa Sherpa, Expedition Director at Seven Summit Treks.

Carlos Soria climbed Manaslu (8,163 m), marking the 50th anniversary of the first Spanish ascent of the mountain in 1975.

Soria was part of that historic expedition five decades ago but did not reach the summit. Although he successfully climbed Manaslu in 2010 at the age of 71, he says this year’s expedition is about honoring history, celebrating Spanish mountaineering achievements, and keeping alive the unfinished spirit of 1975.

“Carlos was supported by Mikel and three other climbers,” Chhang Dawa said. Luis M L Soriano from Spain also scaled the summit with Carlos.

Despite his age, a knee prosthesis, and injuries sustained on previous climbs, Soria remains undeterred. Carlos completed acclimatization in the Khumbu region before joining his team at Manaslu Base Camp in mid-September, supported by Seven Summit Treks.

"The expedition is being organised by Seven Summit Treks," said Chhang Dawa.

Soria has already set multiple age-related mountaineering records, including becoming the oldest person to summit K2 (65 years), Kanchenjunga (75), and Annapurna (77).

 He remains the only climber to have scaled ten 8,000-meter peaks after turning 60.