Jean-Michel Rodrigo

Portrait of french climber Guido Magnone. Originally born in Italy, Magnone arrives in France at the age of three. After studying art at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, he discovered the mountain and quickly became one of the best climbers of his generation. He made prestigious conquests such as the western face of the Drus in the Alps, the first climbs of Fitz Roy in Patagonia with Lionel Terray or Makalu in the Himalayas. He also undertakes many expeditions in the Caucasus, the Rockies ... Magnone also participated in the creation of UCPA (Union des Centres Sportifs de Plein Air)and was president of the Groupe de Haute Montagne from 1961 to 1965.

From the Andes to the Himalaya, from Fitzroy to Makalu and the Mustagh tower, on the west of the Drus, Guido Magnone made his name between the alpinist 50’s giants. Old student of Les Beaux Arts, swimming champion, he is one of the adventurers who dared to storm the edge of the world. In these times, this exploit was as a walk towards the first steps on the moon. Today, Guido is 80, and is still fond of challenges. His memories always give him the great shiver. He tells us about the terrible winds on the argentinean Patagonia, the sherpas fascination for the edges gods. He also speaks of his fight at the head of the UCPA, so that sport and nature pleasures can be transmitted.