The Boardman Tasker Award for Mountain Literature

The Boardman Tasker Award for Mountain Literature is awarded annually to the author or authors of the best literary work, whether fiction, non-fiction, drama or poetry, the central theme of which is concerned with the mountain environment. Established in 1983 to commemorate the lives of Peter Boardman and Joe Tasker, the award is one of the most prestigious and respected literary awards, and we’re delighted to officially support it.

Climbing, mountaineering, and especially Alpinism, have always been more than mere physical activities, and mountaineering literature serves as more than just a documentation of these pursuits. Few activities inspire their participants to express themselves through writing, and even fewer produce celebrated figures who excel as authors. This is the recognition the Boardman Tasker Award aims to celebrate.

For sixty years, we have been closely linked to Alpinism, and we are grateful to Pete, Joe, and their fellow climbers, not only for their remarkable achievements but also for the inspiration they have provided to subsequent generations. By supporting the Boardman Tasker Award for Mountain Literature, we hope to encourage others to experience and appreciate the mountain environment through literature.

• Chris Bonington- "I’m delighted with the news that the Boardman Tasker Prize will now be supported by Mountain Equipment. Pete and Joe often relied on Mountain Equipment’s high-altitude garments on expedition, so the link is a close one, and I know both parties feel this association is a perfect match on many levels.”
• Martin Wragg- "BT trustees welcome the offer by M E to support and assist promotion of the 2021 Award and to amplify the BT message. The possibility of a promotional film of the short listed authors and their books, a press release and enhancing the Award presentation are all greatly appreciated. It is appropriate that this is offered by M E, one of the oldest and most reputable UK mountain equipment manufacturers, given the support they provided to Peter and Joe and to several of their expeditions back in the day."

Main image: Joe Tasker and Pete Boardman, West Ridge, Kanchenjunga 1979. Photo by Doug Scott.