Jules Molyneaux

Jules Molyneaux is a British mountaineer who became the youngest person to summit the Matterhorn at the age of 11.

Early life and education

Molyneaux grew up in Highlands of Scotland. He attended Ardvreck Preparatory School, where he was introduced to outdoor education and climbing activities, and later continued his education at Glenalmond College. He learned about early ascents of the mountain, including the 1861 expedition led by Edward Whymper, and the fear the peak historically inspired in communities living below it.

The Matterhorn ascent

In the year leading up to the ascent, Molyneaux undertook intensive physical training during the COVID-19 lockdown. On 8 July 2020, Molyneaux successfully summited the Matterhorn in Switzerland, becoming one of the youngest people to do so at age 11. Ardvreck’s head later described him as “an exceedingly determined boy” and noted the school’s pride in his achievement. Molyneaux reached the summit in approximately four hours, with the descent taking another four hours.

Recognition

The Matterhorn Museum and national newspapers confirmed that Molyneaux’s ascent constituted a world record for age. On the same day as Molyneaux’s ascent, a climber reportedly died after falling approximately 400 metres.