After watching forecasts and being unable to get over to Scotland while climbing was in condition work always seems to get in the way. However the cold spell was going to come to an end and I didn't think I could get through Christmas without a fix of winter.
Mess of Pottage (Monday)
So snatched phone calls with John McD re flights and the joys of the internet booking flights last minute I was picked up late on Sunday night to travel to Cairngorm.We didn't really know what to expect re weather as the forecast wasn't that good for the morning.
We headed into Snechea and climbed Melting Pot V 7 and Hidden chimney direct IV 5 conditions where ok and it only rainined as we approached the carpark.
John Hidden Chinmey Direct IV 5
Tuesday was the better forecast and true to there great skills were spot on. A pleasant walk into Lochain and no real rush we had plenty of options and so choose Auricle VI 7.
2nd Crux Pitch Auricle VI 7
John 3rd pitch
A great route giving some steep climbing
On our descent via The Couloir we came across the unfortunate side that winter climbing can throw up.
David had taken a fall and broken his Lower leg (Tib & Fib) and was marooned on the slope with his mate Justin. They both had done a geat job at settling the situation and rescue had been called. John and I assisted and and tried to make things as comfortable as possible (if such a thing can be done given the circumstances). When rescue arrived we got David on the gas and eventually he was whisked away. Hopefully to make a full recovery and some day get back up and finish the route.
Wishing them both all the best for Christmas and a speedy recovery to David.
The video is a reminder of the brilliant work the search & rescue provide to us as climbers and also the risk they all take for our well being.
Posted by Ronnie
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