Cork explorer Pat Falvey 'honoured' with Shackleton award

Pat Falvey accepting the Shackleton Global Award at the gala event in Monaco, last Friday.

“Did I ever think living in a 6x6 box room in Gurranabraher watching all the planes come in, that I would have had these opportunities?” 

These are the words of Cork explorer Pat Falvey, after he received the Shackleton Global Award in recognition of his exploration feats.

The 67-year-old, self-proclaimed proud ‘Norrie’ expressed his disbelief after being presented with the award by Prince Albert at a gala event in Monaco.

The award commemorates the esteemed Irish explorer Ernest Shackleton on his 150th anniversary. This year's award acknowledges Mr Falvey’s various achievements, including being the first person to lead an Irish team to the South Pole.

Often regarded as one of the most renowned explorers of the age of exploration, Shackleton led a total of three expeditions through the South Pole — most famously on board his ship, the Endurance.

Mr Falvey holds the title of being the first person to complete the seven summits twice and scaling the highest mountains on each of the seven continents.

He said he was “honoured” to have been chosen for the very prestigious award.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Falvey paid tribute to the “spirit of exploration that lives on in all of us”.

“It's about inspiring the next generation to push the boundaries of what is possible, to embrace the unknown with courage and determination,” he added.

Explorer Pat Falvey paid tribute 'to the spirit of exploration that lives on in all of us'.

The adventurer described his past experiences as an “incredible journey” — from the icy wastes of the South Pole to the towering heights of Everest.

The award is given by the Atlantic Group Trust, a charitable organisation aiming to link young people with the sea and adventure.

President of the charity, Enda O’Coineen, described Pat as a “role model” for the young people involved in the organisation.

“Our mission is to connect youth with the ocean and adventure,” he said.

Mr Falvey, who now lives by the Gap of Dunloe in Kerry, uses his proximity to Carrauntoohil —which he has climbed over 2,500 times.

He admits the reality of his achievements is often difficult to accept.

“Sometimes I have to pinch myself in relation to the accolades that I have been receiving over the last number of years,” he said.

With over 185 expeditions completed to date, Mr Falvey has a long list of future expeditions to tick off,  beginning with visits to Africa and Asia over the next few months.

He expressed his gratitude for the opportunities to have these experiences, adding he is “grateful and humbled” for his life each day.