 He became a guide and began a series of exploits, especially in the Himalayas.He is famous for having opened many ways, made of firsts in terms of speed, as April 27, 1988 where he rose through the southwest pillar of Makalu () alone and in 18 hours, Cho Oyu (8200 m) in 19 hours.Since September 26, 1988, he holds the record for the solo ascent of Everest without oxygen in 22 hours and 29 minutes from the base camp on the south face.