George Henry Lowe III (born August 16, 1944) is an American rock climber and alpinist, noted for his alpine style ascents of difficult and infrequently repeated routes, and his development of traditional climbing routes in the Western United States.

The award is given "annually to a person who, in the opinion of the selection committee, has demonstrated the highest level of skill in the mountaineering arts and who, through the application of this skill, courage, and perseverance, has achieved outstanding success in the various fields of mountaineering endeavor".

[7][8] Lowe also had a successful career as a systems engineer providing consulting to the United States Intelligence Community.

[9] He is an Honorary Member of the American Alpine Club which represents "the highest award the AAC has to offer.

[10] Lowe was also president of the Piolet d’Or 2014 International Jury which included Catherine Destivelle and was responsible for selecting the award-winners from the nominees.