Ian Corless: “Life in the Mountains is Fragile”

In an essay reflecting on the recent death of Ida Amelie Robsahm and Kalie McCrystal Ian quotes the great mountaineer Reinhold Messner:

“If death was not a possibility, coming out (of the mountains) would be nothing. It would be kindergarten, but not an adventure and not an art.”

He continues with his own words in an essay which is is an absolute must read from top to bottom:

For those of us drawn to mountains, the attraction is not recklessness. It is something much deeper. Mountains provide perspective in a world increasingly dominated by distraction. They challenge us physically and mentally. They expose weaknesses and reveal strengths. They offer moments of fear, humility, joy, wonder and achievement.

In many ways, mountain running allows us to experience the full spectrum of what it means to be alive.

The lows are real.

The highs are extraordinary.

I’m glad we have voices like Ian’s in our sport, we’re better off for it.