Learning to Lead

on October 4, 2014

Whipping round the hills in Glencoe (Photo Dorota Bankowska)

Its been a mix of work and play since my last post. I had two excellent days working with John who was keen to expand his knowledge of leading routes both scrambling and rock climbing. We spent time at Polldubh with John doing all the leading on The Gutter (M), Right Wall (V Diff) and Three Pines (V Diff). From having never led a rock climb to leading seven pitches upto VDiff standard was a superb effort, Dot was on hand to belay whilst I gave John a few hints and tips on a rope close beside him. Although it was forecast to be very windy it turned out to be a beautiful day in Glen Nevis.

Gear selection

John clearly enjoying leading his first V Diff

Getting a few pointers (photo: Dorota Bankowska)

Happy – Good pout!

Overnight the rain just kept on coming, however, an improving forecast and a slightly later start we approached Glencoe with open minds as to what was going to be practical in less than ideal weather. We were rewarded with glimpses of sunshine though the dark clouds which meant no excuses but to get John back in the lead on Lagangarbh Buttress (2/3). Dave had kindly agreed to brave the rain to help belay and gather some ideas for his MIA assessment which he hopes to complete next year. Its a great route which John was quite rightly pleased to have led under his own steam – two superb and contrasting days in the mountains!

Body belays can be a good workout

Dave putting his short roping techniques to the test

Aside from work I have been back and forth to Wave Buttress with Dot and Kev and recently today we were also joined by Jane and Goose to see what all the fuss is about. Kev has again found another potential line and I am continuing to put the effort into the wall I have been trying. Both lines are hard which means plenty more time at Wave before the winter hits!