K2 hero McDonnell to receive climbing’s top bravery medal posthumously

A CO Limerick mountain climber who died in a brave rescue attempt on K2 has been given an award for bravery.

Ger McDonnell, 37, lost his life two years ago when he turned back to help a group of stricken Korean climbers on his descent from K2 after reaching the summit. Another climber said the three Koreans were dangling from their harnesses on the side of the mountain when McDonnell decided to turn back and try and rescue them.

His family plan to travel to Italy to accept the Targa d’Argento Pinzolo Gold Metal, which honours those who risk their life for others in the mountains. It is considered the top award by international climbers.