March 14, 2014
Costa Mesa, Ca.
Dear Family & Friends:
I am pleased to announce that the documentary film “Eight Summits: The Bill Burke Story” is finished and ready for distribution. The film was produced by award-winning documentary filmmaker, Allan Smith, through his production company DreamQuest Productions.
Eight Summits features my climb of the highest mountain on every continent after reaching age 60. Dramatic photos and videos of these mountains are included. The centerpiece of the movie is my attempt to complete an unprecedented double summit of Mt. Everest from both the South side in Nepal and the North side in Tibet. The viewer is taken on a video tour of both sides of this magnificent mountain.
The 54-minute film is unique among Everest movies because it covers the wide range of people and organizations involved in a successful climb of the highest mountain on planet earth, including expedition companies, guides, Sherpas, porters, medical personnel, meteorologists, and suppliers of the oxygen systems used on the mountain. Famed climbers and the keeper of the Himalaya Database are interviewed. The film also features cultural and religious aspects of climbing in Asia, including the sacred “Puja” prayer ceremony conducted by Buddhist priests at Base Camp.
Eight Summits also chronicles my life journey with my disabled grandson, Ollie, who suffers from Angelman Syndrome, a severe neurological disorder. Ollie is my inspiration and my training partner.
Here is the film trailer.
If you like the film, I hope you will recommend it to others.
When I return from Mt. Everest in June, we will be screening the film at a theatre in Orange County and you will be invited.
Bill
CONGRATULATIONS ON THE COMPLETION OF THE DOCUMENTARY! LOOK FORWARD TO VIEWING IT AGAIN IN JUNE.
BEST WISHES ON YOUR UPCOMING ADVENTURE ON EVEREST.
K;-)
Pre-ordered my copy last month. Can’t wait to see it!
Wonderful!! Good luck on your upcoming climb. I look forward to seeing the documentary. I love that your inspiration is Ollie. That is an inspiration to all of us.
Bill, As I approach 70 years old (next month), I am always reminded of a quote of yours which I think is in the 54 minute video: “Dreams rooted in the heart are slow to die.” Your dreams are an inspiration and they keep us connected and motivated.
Blessings,
Rockman
Loved the trailer, congratulations. I cannot wait to see the completed film. You and your family are so blessed.
Bill:
Best wishes for a great climb, and our prayers for your safety.
I CAN’T WAIT TOO SEE THE FILM,,MAY GOD KEEP YOU SAFE ON YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE MR. BURKE I WILL BE ROOTING FOR YOU,,HAPPY SUNDAY:]