NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
July 6, 2026
Contact:
Tana Collins-Allred
Community & Economic Development Director
tcollins@jaspercity.com
MAYOR JOSH GATES COMPLETES THE SEVEN SUMMITS CHALLENGE
JASPER, AL - Mayor Josh Gates has completed the Seven Summits challenge after successfully summiting Mount Elbrus in Russia on June 30. The achievement marks the completion of Gates' long-standing goal of climbing the highest mountain on each of the seven continents, one of the world's most recognized mountaineering accomplishments.
Standing 18,510 feet above sea level, Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe and the final summit in Gates' original Seven Summits pursuit. Completing the challenge required years of preparation, technical skill, endurance, and expeditions across the globe.
Gates' mountaineering journey has spanned several years and includes his successful summit of Mount Everest in 2024, making him just the third Alabamian to reach the world's highest peak. Along the way, he also completed numerous additional signature climbs beyond the original Seven Summits goal, further establishing an accomplished international climbing resume.
Reflecting on the accomplishment in a social media post, Gates wrote: "This journey has been years in the making. Along the way, I've climbed many mountains beyond the original seven, met amazing people from around the world, and learned lessons that only come through challenge, perseverance, and a willingness to keep moving forward. Completing the Seven Summits was the goal that started this journey, and there was something deeply meaningful about finally finishing what I started.”
Gates also used the opportunity to recognize the City of Jasper employees who continued serving the community while he was away completing the climb. "The City continued moving forward because of dedicated professionals who show up every day, solve problems, and work hard for the people of Jasper. I'm proud to serve alongside them, and this experience only strengthened my confidence in our organization and in the future of our city," Gates said.
Since taking office, Gates has emphasized collaboration, strategic planning, and responsible growth while building on Jasper's current momentum. His vision for the city has consistently focused on attracting investment, improving quality of life, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring long-term success for the community.
For more information about the City of Jasper, visit jaspercity.com.
For media inquiries, please contact Tana Collins-Allred, Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Jasper, at 904.383.2082 or tcollins@jaspercity.com.
