Today’s outside climbing meet was in jeopardy due to a dubious weather forecast.
A decision was made to change the venue from Millstone to Stanage far right, giving shorter routes and boulder problems to stay warm in the cold conditions.
As we approached the crag everything looked a bit marginal driving through Hathersage and up the hill we were in thick fog with everything seeming rather damp. Just as we approached the parking we broke through the fog and were met with clear skies and sunshine.
With snow on the ground but dry rock and warming conditions, we had a great day with a mixture of micro routes and easy bouldering.
Glad to have changed the plan and get outside for the day
This year the DMC club's winter trip was based at Mill Cottage near Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park. The weather was very mild for a winter meet although extremely windy.
On the first day, we split into three pairs, Tom and Phil climbed the east ridge Beinn a Chaorainn, Cath and Gred climbed a Corbett from Kingussie, and Mike and David climbed Clach a Bhlair via the track, descending on the southwest ridge.
With wind speeds of over 100 kmph forecast for Friday, we all decided to stay in the valley with one group walking towards the source of the river Feshie, a very sophisticated bothy (with running toilets), and the other group walking in Abernethy Forest.
Saturday was slightly calmer westerly winds allowing some to climb Fiacaill Couloir. Although it is relatively high, its summit is just below the Cairngorm plateau and is well protected from westerly winds.
Sunday saw Greg, Tom, and Phil walk a lap of Loch Morlich with a compulsory stop at the cafe. An excellent meet and plans are already underway for next year.
Bonsall Night Nav 24th January. 17 members met up at the Barley Mow in Bonsall before setting off on a challenging night nav, although the clear, moonlit night did make finding some of the checkpoints a bit easier. A few penalties were applied for being late back. Pete and Dave did really well and were the clear winners.