Youngest Everest Climber: "Totally Worth It"

(CBS)  When he was only nine-years-old, Jordon Romero decided to climb the highest peaks on all seven continents.

On Saturday, Romero, now 13, from Big Bear, Calif., made it to the top of the world's tallest mountain, 29,035 foot Mt. Everest, becoming the youngest person ever to accomplish the feat.

And Monday, Romero did his first TV interview since setting the mark, with "Early Show" co-anchor Harry Smith.

Romero chatted with Smith via Skype from Everest's Advanced Base Camp.

He said the climb was "definitely harder" than he'd anticipated, with lots of unexpected complications, but that it was "totally worth it." The feeling at the summit, he said, was "like no other … the time of our lives."

And, while it was fraught with perils, "That's what it's all about," Romero remarked. "We're climbers."

He made his way up Everest with his father, Paul Romero, and Paul's girlfriend, Karen Lundgren

Romero now has only one peak left to get to the goal he set four years ago -- the Vinson Massif in Antarctica, and he intends to head there in December.

"Early Show" viewers first met Jordan last month.

To see Jordan's Monday interview, click on the video below:


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[pbors]

I'm sure his dad knows that he just set up his son for a lifetime of easy speaking engagements. This kid will never have to work a day in his life. Should have thought of this for my kids.

[pragmatist1]

Now, had he done all of this without the aid of his daddy being there, then that would have been something remarkable.

[bobnjersey]

[Now, had he done all of this without the aid of his daddy being there, then that would have been something remarkable. ]

nobody makes these climbs without the help of others ... regardless of age.

[ksmit2]

I think this is great. Purchase a "CV" for your child one 70 thousand
dollar trip at a time. Become a celebrity by going on one outrageously
expensive and dangerous vacation after another.
I wish more people could instill those kind of values in their kids.
You've also purchased a lifetime of scrutiny for your child.
We wish to create kings out of those who do not know how to be a
servant, first.

[bobnjersey]

[I wish more people could instill those kind of values in their kids.
You've also purchased a lifetime of scrutiny for your child. ]

and a lifetime of confidence as well. do you think this kid will ever face a difficult situation where he won't be able to reach down and muster up what necessary to push thru?

[ksmit2]

Bob'n the "I wish more people" string was pure sarcasm. As far as
confidence, we won't know, as his daddy will not be roped to him
for every challenge he faces in the future. When you exalt your child
to this level of perceived importance without him having to really
pay his freight what will happen to him when you're no longer around.