11-Year-Old Sam Evermore Summits Matterhorn, sets WORLD RECORD on Disney’s Iconic Peak after EPIC COMEBACK
***UPDATE: Fox News Instagram Captures Moment Sam Reaches Matterhorn Summit. Click image to watch
From the Moon landing to the raising of the flag on Mount Suribachi, certain images etch themselves into the American consciousness — snapshots of courage, grit, and the pursuit of the impossible. Now, another moment is poised to join that gallery of history: the image of a determined young climber, American flag in Dad Joe’s hand, standing atop one of the most recognizable peaks in the world — the Matterhorn.
11-year-old Sam Evermore has just set a world record as the youngest person ever to summit the Matterhorn, Switzerland’s 14,692-foot icon. Known worldwide for its dramatic pyramid shape and immortalized by Disney in its logo, the Matterhorn has long captured the imagination of climbers and dreamers alike. For Sam, it wasn’t just about the mountain’s fame — it was about finishing what he started.
Last year, Sam made his first attempt with his father, Joe Evermore (link to NewsNation interview after that climb below). They fought through brutal conditions and dizzying exposure, but as the summit drew near, safety called the shots. Rockfall hazards and sheer exhaustion forced them to turn back, a painful but prudent decision. That setback only deepened Sam’s resolve. He trained harder, studied the mountain’s moods, and prepared for the challenge with an intensity rare for his age.
This year, on a clear, biting morning, Sam and Joe set out once more. The climb tested every ounce of strength, stamina, and focus they had. Sheer walls of rock and ice, unpredictable winds, and the ever-present threat of falling stone stood in their way. But this time, Sam refused to yield. Step by painstaking step, he pushed through the thin air and fatigue until, at last, the summit was his.
It was more than a personal victory — it was a father-son triumph, a testament to perseverance, and a moment for the history books. Standing atop the Matterhorn, Sam unfurled the American flag, a sight every bit as stirring as the great flag-raising moments of our past.
Sam’s record-setting ascent is a story of youthful ambition, unshakable resolve, and the bond between father and son. It’s a reminder that iconic moments aren’t just for astronauts, soldiers, or seasoned adventurers — they can be claimed by the young, the determined, and those bold enough to try again when the mountain says, “not yet.”
Sam’s story isn’t new. He’s been training tirelessly for this moment every day for years!
Relevant Links / Articles:
Young Sam’s Instagram Instagram
Father-son duo breaks record by climbing Matterhorn Mountain
Optional Q&A
- What inspired you to climb the Matterhorn at such a young age?
- How did it feel to have to turn back on your first attempt last year?
- What changes did you make in your training to prepare for your second attempt?
- What was the most difficult moment during this year’s climb?
- How did climbing with your father shape the experience for you?
- What went through your mind when you finally reached the summit?
- Why was it important to bring the American flag to the top?
- What advice would you give to other young people chasing big goals?
About Sylvan, Sam, Joe, and the Evermores…
Sylvan and his older brother Sam are kids who love to climb mountains with their dad. They even set world records while doing it! Each rock face they scale is one more chance to get to the top, look out over the world, holler, “Whoop!” and give out high fives.
To learn more, go to Sam Adventure!
MEDIA CONTACT: Todd Baumann at 512-966-0983 or Bookings@specialguests.com