Wednesday 25 May 2011

British Mountain Guides Summer Training course part 2.


Bruce Poll short-roping
Originally uploaded by SteveMLT
This week I'm helping on the British Mountain Guides Summer Course 2. As a member of the Training Committee I thought it would give a useful oversight of the summer section of the scheme if I worked on both elements of the summer training course. It was interesting to compare the two courses; one based at a club hut in the Lakes and convened by an independent Guide (Adrian Nelhems) the other based at the National Mountain Centre and convened by its Director of Training (Martin Chester). I feel that the two coursed complement each other very well, with the fortnight in between providing a good consolidation opportunity. It's a real privilege to be able to work on courses like these and I am excited that MLT has agreed to free up my work schedule to stay current and also ensure a level of consistency between the various UK (and worldwide!) training schemes.
Tomorrow we have some keen young mountaineers for the coach candidates to coach, so there should be plenty of ideas and enthusiasm on show. Unfortunately there will also be vast amounts of rain water pouring down our sleeves, but you can't have everything!

Saturday 21 May 2011

woodpecker_38.jpg


woodpecker_38.jpg
Originally uploaded by SteveMLT
Great Spotted Woodpeckers are visiting my feeding station every 5 minutes or so, gathering a beakful and then flying out towards Cae Coch farm. Fascinating birds, almost reptilian in their movements. As the station is about 3 metres from a window getting photos is almost too easy!

Monday 16 May 2011

Glyn Hudson's photos from the BMC International Climbing Meet 2011

 
Click this photo to see Glyn's photos from the Meet
Due to work commitments I was unable to attend this year's International Meet, which is a shame as I love showing people some of the highlights (and esoteric gems!) from our wonderful trad crags. Looking at these photos it would appear that the "inclemental" weather didn't dampen spirits or enthusiasm too much.

Sunday 8 May 2011

Taghia, Morocco


DSC00841
Originally uploaded by SteveMLT
Just got back from an exciting cragging holiday in Taghia, Morocco. Great hospitality, perfect rock, magnificent scenery - what more could you ask for?
This shot shows MLT Board member Andy Boorman on the crux sequence of "Au Nom de la reforme" (6c). I've posted more photos on Flickr, click on this photo to see them.
A morning at home and then off to the Lake District to work on the British Mountain Guides summer training course. It's all go!