My first
4000M peak
In 2023, at the age of 20, I took on my first major Alpine challenge: climbing Mont Blanc. Standing at 4,808 meters on the border of France, Italy, and Switzerland, this legendary peak is the highest point in the Alps and Western Europe.
While it attracts thousands of mountaineers every year, it remains a dangerous undertaking—particularly due to the notorious Grand Couloir on the Goûter route. This mandatory passage, nicknamed “Death Couloir,” is infamous for frequent rockfalls. Between 1990 and 2017, more than 100 deaths and 230 injuries were recorded there, averaging nearly four fatalities each summer. Despite the route’s popularity, the risks should never be underestimated.
Endurance
and Acclimatization
To prepare for the Mont Blanc challenge, I relied on the invaluable support of my physical trainer, Olivier Fizaine, whom I’ve known since my first year of medical school. Olivier instilled in me essential values: rigor, perseverance, and discipline. For several months, we focused on cardiovascular endurance and strength training—two vital components for tackling a 4,000m peak. At the same time, I was also preparing for my first marathon, pushing my endurance to its limits on all fronts.
Before attempting Mont Blanc, I completed an acclimatization climb with high-mountain guide Mathieu Guillo (who would later become my lead guide). We summited the Grande Fourche (3,610m) in the Swiss Alps, marking my first Alpine ascent without skis. This preparatory climb allowed me to familiarize myself with the gear—crampons, ropes, and ice axe—while testing my reaction to altitudes above 3,500 meters.
A Moment Frozen in Time
That I Will Never Forget
Finally, the big day arrived for Mont Blanc (4,808m)—my first “4,000er.” The climb spanned two days, including a night at a mountain refuge to take advantage of the best conditions at dawn.
Reaching the summit, I was overwhelmed by an immense rush of emotion—a blend of physical exhaustion, awe at the breathtaking Alpine panorama, and deep inner satisfaction. This achievement was a turning point in my journey: it gave me confidence in my abilities and sparked a desire to aim for even more ambitious goals.
Special Thanks
to my team
Reaching a summit is, above all, a collective victory. None of this would be possible without the passionate team supporting me every day.
A huge thank you to those who share in my doubts and my efforts.
- Mathieu Guillo – High Mountain Guide
- Olivier Fizaine – Strength & Conditioning Coach
