After two months of acclimatization and reaching the ‘top of the world’ Johann Peiris returned to Sri Lanka last Friday (June 1) followed by a warm reception from his well-wishers and relatives. Back in 2016 he left the country to summit Mt. Everest but missed 400metres during his initial climb. Since his oxygen tank didn’t work, Johann couldn’t join his climbing partner Jayanthi Kuru-Utukmpala to reach the summit during his first attempt. 

Speaking to the Daily Mirror Life on his return, Johann said that he started getting ready from the training process itself. “I knew the areas I was weak in and those that I needed strength. From that time onwards I started preparing. We got caught in storms and going through the Khumbu Icefall was the biggest risk. At any moment one could expect a chunk of ice to break off. One and a half hours after we got down from the Summit there was a massive avalanche. So it’s all about timing. I spent about 15 minutes at the Peak and the weather was so clear.  It took a few minutes for me to realise that I was actually on the top of the world. I couldn’t believe it. I had to look around and take it all in. It was the most spectacular sight I have ever seen.”

Speaking further Johann said that we all have our own mountains in our lives. “My message this time is that you should give up. Two years ago when I failed I set a good example. It took me a while to realise that we need to chase after our dreams. I think it’s a good example to ask people to never give up.”