Lydia Bradey (born 22 December 1964) is a New Zealand mountaineer renowned for being the first woman to summit Mount Everest without the use of supplemental oxygen. Her ascent of Everest, achieved on 12 May 1988, was initially not recognized by the Nepalese government due to regulations prohibiting unauthenticated climbs without permits, but it was later accepted as a historic milestone in high‑altitude climbing.
Early Life and Training
Bradey was born in Auckland, New Zealand, and began climbing as a teenager. She developed her skills on the Southern Alps of New Zealand before progressing to international expeditions.
Major Expeditions and Achievements
- Everest (1988) – At age 23, Bradey reached the summit of Mount Everest from the South Col route without supplemental oxygen. The climb was conducted with a small New Zealand expedition team. The ascent was later verified and is widely acknowledged as the first such achievement by a woman.
- Kangchenjunga (1993) – Bradey successfully summited Kangchenjunga, the world’s third‑highest peak, also without supplemental oxygen.
- Other Peaks – She has climbed numerous other high‑altitude mountains, including Makalu, Dhaulagiri, and peaks in the Andes and the Himalayas.
Professional and Advocacy Work
Beyond her climbing career, Bradey has worked as a mountain guide, instructor, and safety consultant. She has contributed to the development of climbing safety standards and has been involved in training programs for aspiring mountaineers in New Zealand.
Recognition
Bradey’s achievements have been recognized with several honors, including induction into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame and awards from mountaineering organizations for pioneering high‑altitude climbing without supplemental oxygen.
Publications and Media
Bradey has authored articles on high‑altitude physiology and safety, and she has been featured in documentaries and interviews discussing her climbs and the evolution of women’s participation in extreme mountaineering.
Personal Life
Bradey resides in New Zealand and continues to be active in the mountaineering community, focusing on safety education and mentorship.