WHILE people enjoyed the Labor Day holiday, Shenzhen resident Liu Yongzhong was conquering Dhaulagiri in Nepal, his ninth world summit over 8,000 meters.

Along with Liu, four other mountaineers managed to reach the peak of Dhaulagiri on Sunday. Although their initial plan to conquer the mountain April 24 was delayed because of unstable weather, the crew reached the 8,167-meter-high peak at 12:30 p.m. local time on the last day of April.

Dhaulagiri is regarded as one of the most challenging summits around the world due to its wind, temperature, steep routes and frequent falling rocks.

Currently only 448 people have successfully reached the top. Three Chinese mountaineers died on their way to the peak May 13, 2010.

Liu, 48, is one of 15 mountaineers in Shenzhen who have reached the top of Mt. Qomolangma, also known as Mt. Everest, since 2003. Among the 14 peaks that are higher than 8,000 meters in the world Liu has conquered nine of them.

Liu has experienced and witnessed several tragedies while climbing mountains. “One rarely sees animals in areas higher than 6,000 meters, but we do see human bodies,” said Liu.

Climbing the world peaks has changed his perspective towards life. “Now I take life easier and am not keen on pursing fame and wealth,” said Liu.

Liu plans to conquer Nanga Parbat (8,125 meters), K2 (8,611 meters) and Shishapangma (8,027 meters) this year. His goal for next year is Lhotse (8,516 meters) and Mt. Broad (8,407 meters).

Liu is engaged in promoting sports in Longgang District and the whole of Shenzhen. He organized a 250-km cycling campaign around Shenzhen in 2010 and some other sports activities. (Zhang Qian)