Hell's Kitchen Gordon Ramsay Set to Climb Mount Everest
FIERY chef Gordon Ramsay is planning to climb the world's highest mountain.
The TV star has been invited to scale Mount Everest next May.
Ramsay plans to take time out from his culinary empire to attempt the 29,029ft ascent of the Himalayan peak on the border between China and Nepal.
He said: "I have been approached to attempt to climb Everest next year, which would be phenomenal.
"It's a lifelong ambition. Business commitments permitting, and with my family's approval, I'd like to do it.
"I have always kept in shape, so that's not a problem.
"These kind of offers only come along rarely and I know that, as you get older, the chance to stretch yourself physically becomes less."
Almost 2500 people have climbed Everest and 210 have died on the mountain.
Ramsay is a fitness fanatic who has run the London marathon several times.
The dad-of-four has recently stepped up his training schedule to compete in a tough Iron Man triathlon in Hawaii on November 8, his 42nd birthday.
He said his wife Tana gives him the motivation to stay in shape, as well as his own dislike of fat chefs.
Speaking from his restaurant in Dubai, Ramsay said: "Ten years ago, I was a fat chef. I don't think it's a good advert for my restaurant."
Ramsay, who was born in Johnstone, Renfrewshire, said that no matter where he is in the world, he goes for runs with a rucksack full of potatoes strapped to his back.
The former footballer, who was once on Rangers' books, plans to open a s5million restaurant in the London West Hollywood Hotel in Los Angeles.
He has already earned 12 Michelin stars and is one of only three UK chefs with a restaurant which has been awarded three ichelin stars.
Despite racking up a $67million fortune and running a successful global empire, scaling Everest could be Ramsay's toughest challenge yet.
The Chinese and Nepalese governments strictly control ascents on Everest, with permits costing up to $15,000.
Most climbs are led by professionals with full-time sherpas who charge more than $40,000 for their services.
Nepalese climber Min Bahadur Sherchan, 76, yesterday became the oldest person to scale Everest.
