Last day of the year

Happy days from 2010

I had the morning free and was keen to get out despite the warm temperatures so I caught an early lift up the hill with Kenny (who was off to NE Buttress). Walking in it was mild but the lower ice has continued to hang in just- although it is water polished and will be very firm after tonights freeze.

I headed into Coire na Ciste and was attracted by the ice of Garadh Gully. I used to think of myself as a mixed climber but must admit to being recently attracted to big sexy flows of blue ice. I had a pleasant time going as directly up Garadh as I could- wherever I was in footprints the snow was firm but outside of old tracks I might go up to my thigh. At the top I decided to investigate Broad Gully. I'd never been there before but it looked from the Guidebook to give easy access to Subsidiary Tower Ridge and soon I was traversing onto the main Ridge just where I wanted to be. I downclimbed the lower section of the ridge passing 3 teams and by 1130 was back at the CIC hut. Here I found 3 slightly dis-spirited climbers who I regaled with tales of fat easy ice in the mist- hope they found it!

Oh well so much for 2010... 114 days of summer and indoor work or climbing, a month in Afghanistan and 2 new peaks, 27 winter days and a dozen on the bike. Thanks to all those who have shared it with me and especially Jane and my wee boy Sandy- both are great!

Now for a busy winter season with AMI workshops, Rjukan, a week's work in Spain, Glenmore Lodge, a hopefully good week on the Ben all to come. Its a great life if you don't weaken!

My First Project from Alan Halewood on Vimeo.