Marmot Angel Fire Sleeping bag £160

So you borrowed your boyfriends spare sleeping again which is undoubtedly way too big for you and has a very harvests a very suspicious smell about it. You roll around at night desperately trying to heat the huge void of spare space and then when 3am hits you fight up from the depths of the sleeping bag desperately gasping for air.

Does this sound familiar to any other ladies out there?

Well…….. its time for a change ladies.

Marmot’s Angel Fire sleeping bag is quite rightly one of the most popular down bags that we currently have in our range for women. The design and shape has been speficially engineered to ensure this sleeping bag fits you and not a 6 foot ape shaped male.

We know that you feel the cold, especially on your toes and at your head. To combat this so extra insulation has been placed in these key areas to help keep you warm. The durable construction and high-quality down ensure you get a warm and comfortabelt nights sleep even when it gets down to -30C.

Specs
Weight: 1.247 kgs
Fill Weight: 623.7 g
Main Material: Omni 1.4 oz 100% Nylon WR
Main Material: Network 1.3 oz 100% Nylon AC
Lining Material: Flashback 2.2 oz 100% Polyester WR
Insulation Material: 600+ Fill Goose Down
Size for stature: 168 cm
Size on shoulder: 147 cm
Color: Summer Blue/Sierra
EN 13537 Tested

Comfort: 26.1F / -3. 3C

Features include:
1. Classic Trapezoidal Foot Box For More Foot Room
2. Feely" Draw Cords Ease Nighttime location of cords
3. Stash pocket for nighttime sssentials
4. Heater Pocket in the foot section allows for heat Pack to be put inside
5. Nautilus 6-Baffle Hood 6 Chambers of Down Around Head for Better Down Control
and Fit, Hood Cord is Positioned for Easy Access
6. Stretch Tricot Baffles Provide Ultimate Strength, Durability and Bag Life
7. Stuff and Storage Sack Included
8. Two-Way zipper sliders for venting and mating of bags.
9. Certified 600+ Fill Goose Down
10. EN Tested
11. Women's Specific Fit - More Insulation in Key Areas.
12. Down-filled Collar with Easy Access Draw Cord

Still interested in a good nights sleep?

www.marmot.com

posted by glenmore @ 3:44 pm  0 comments

Developing and supporting climbing, walking and mountain leaders

MLTA News July 2009…..


•MLTA has been running a series of regional workshops this year, aimed at developing and updating skills and knowledge of members. The workshops have been very popular, topics already covered include Disability Awareness, Winter skills and Single Pitch techniques

Workshops coming up soon:

4 July Walking Group Leader workshop Dartmoor
4 July Coaching Navigation Peak
5 July Ropework for Mountain Leaders Peak
1 Aug Environmental Day for ML Lakes
29/30 Aug ML Refresher Lakes
5/6 Sept Nature and Conservation of the Uplands N Wales


•This years Conference is now open for booking. The event is taking place at the National Mountain Centre at Plas y Brenin on 24th and 25th October. Workshops will be taking place over the weekend giving members an opportunity to learn about something new, socialise and enjoy the beautiful North Wales countryside.


For more information:
•www.mlta.co.uk
•Sign up for the new MLTA E-newsletter by emailing Rachael@mlta.co.uk

posted by glenmore @ 3:30 pm  0 comments

Membership of the body that represents mountaineers north of the border broke the 10,000 mark this year, according to its annual report, released today.

The website of the Mountaineering Council of Scotland is also now getting 10,000 unique visitors each month. The organisation’s president Chris Townsend gives an upbeat view in his summary, saying its work is increasing its appeal to mountaineers of all types.

Despite the economic recession, the council’s chief officer David Gibson says it is in good financial health, with a growing membership. This contrasts with the Ramblers Scotland, which is facing closure of its Scotland office and drastic reduction in its staffing, with a budget cut of £300,000 for its operations north of the border.

Mr Gibson said: “There is a lot of good news to present to members at our AGM this year. We are delighted that despite the credit crunch our membership is rising and that we are able to expand our range of membership benefits.”

Mr Townsend backed up the view. He said: “The MCofS is in good shape. We are carrying out vital work in safety and training, access and conservation, with climbing walls, and youth events, and in a whole host of other areas. This work is generating a lot of interest and it is great to see that mountaineers of all disciplines are visiting our website and joining the MCofS.”

But treasurer John Irving said financial support may change following the next election, despite all politicians agreeing there should be greater participation in active pursuits. The man in charge of the MCofS purse said: “sportscotland is keen to increase participation in outdoor activities and sports. MCofS shares this vision and needs to demonstrate how this is achieved. Public policy could change with the next election threatening our financial support. However I would remain optimistic that mountaineering, climbing and hill walking will always be an important part of Scottish life.”


Chris Townsend: 'MCofS is in good shape'
Access is still proving problematic in certain areas, despite the Scotland’s land-reform legislation, which gave walkers, climbers, cyclists and paddlers the best access rights of anywhere in the UK. Hebe Carus, access and conservation officer for the council, reports: “Implementation of some of the provisions of The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 is still suffering from lack of adequate resources.

“This has been due in part to the statutory nature of Core Paths Plans, which have been prioritised by access authorities, together with issues relating to physical barriers, which received a large number of reports.

“Consequently, issues of importance to mountaineers require effort to move them up the priority agenda, requiring a good deal of commitment from volunteers and staff. During the year we raised 124 unique enquiries and the majority of these have been dealt with.”

The MCofS also administers the £42,000 funding for the Mountain Weather Information Service, founded by Geoff Monk; it appointed a new mountain-safety adviser Heather Morning, and part funded the Hillwalking Essentials DVD, along with the British Mountaineering Council and Mountain Leader Training England.

The MCofS annual meeting will take place at Glenmore Lodge, Aviemore, on 5 September. The full annual report can be viewed via the council’s website.

posted by glenmore @ 3:07 pm  0 comments

Come and stay at Glenmore Lodge. So much more than just bed and breakfast.

Glenmore Lodge accommodation offers you a superb location where you can eat your breakfast overlooking the Cairngorms. There are on-site facilities that are also included at no extra cost. These include the climbing wall, sauna and gym.


GLENMORE BED & BREAKFAST – so much more than just B&B
We are able to offer accommodation on a Bed and Breakfast basis. Most rooms have twin beds and en-suite but there are still some that require you to share bathroom facilities. The price ranges from £25 - £31 per person per night. All prices are subject to change. Call us for availability.

SELF CATERING CHALETS
Our 4, 6 and 12 berth self catering chalets are in the grounds of the Lodge and are completely self contained. Each is fully equipped with a drying room, fitted kitchen and a comfortable lounge with TV and video.

The 4 berth chalet costs £70 per night (based on a minimum of 2 nights). 1 bedroom with 1 set of bunk beds and 1 bedroom with twin beds.

The 6 berth chalet costs £96 per night (based on a minimum of 2 nights). 1 bedroom with 1 set of bunk beds, 1 bedroom with 2 sets of bunk beds.

The 12 berth chalet costs £192 per night (based on a minimum of 2 nights). 2 bedrooms with 1 set of bunk beds, 2 bedrooms with 2 sets of bunk beds.
Chalet maximum capacity must not be exceeded.

LOCHAIN BAR
We also have Lochain Bar serving a wide variety of Scottish beers and whiskeys as well as offering delicious meals from locally sourced food. Open fire for the winter nights and balcony with views over the Cairngorms for the summer evenings.



Please note that we do not accept ‘celebratory groups’, where there is a strong likelihood of disruption to our other guests because of excessive drinking and/or unruly behaviour by members of the group. If it is likely that your group may be of this nature we respectfully ask that you do not approach Glenmore Lodge with a booking enquiry.


Massage
Sports and remedial massage is available by appointment, please ask for Kirsty Wright at Reception or phone her on 01479 861 256 to make an appointment.
Kirsty is a member of the Sports Massage Association.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy appointments are available at on certain days. Please ask at Reception of call ahead for details and appointments



ON-SITE FACILITIES
The fees for accommodation include the use of Lodge facilities

Glenmore Lodge’s on-site facilities are a major asset to any residential experience, whether on a course or just here to enjoy the area. They not only add to the training potential but allow you to either relax or push yourself even more after a big day out.

Indoor Climbing Wall
The compact and well-designed wall offers a total climbing area of 115m2, mostly on simulated rock with additional bolt-on holds. The main area is 6m high and the bouldering area includes a roof section
Our climbing wall is open to residents and non-residents alike. Priority use goes to those using the wall as part of a scheduled course.Please check availability and sign-in at Reception.
.
Gym
The gym includes Cycle Ergometer, Rowing machine, Treadmill, Wall-mounted Fixed Weights, Free Weights & Bars.
Please ask at Reception before using the gym. Free weights may only be used after an induction.
Sauna
Enjoy a relaxing sauna after a day on the hill. Free of charge, for residents only.
.
Pool
We have an indoor, seven by four metre pool fitted with two aquajets and having observation windows as a training aid. Rotobat and closed-deck C1 boats are available. Boats can only be used with a level 2 qualified instructor present.
The pool may be used for swimming by residents, so long as there are at least two people in the pool area.

Mountain Bike Skills Training Circuit
Did you know that Scotland ranks in the top five Mountain Biking destinations in the world?!!
The on-site training circuit was built with financial support from sport scotland to meet the training needs of the ever-increasing popularity of mountain biking in Scotland. It also provides an up to date model of environmental and sustainable trail building and is a role model for future projects.
It is specifically designed as a training facility as opposed to a public play park, free-ride or cross-country trail. The track has seven sections, several that work in two directions. Most sections are self contained and enable coaches to work on specific skills. On a number of elements there are 2 or 3 options, each option at a different technical level, to allow targets to be established and progression monitored.
This is a major asset to have in terms of training, fun and the environment for the mountain biking community.

TV/Video Lounge
For those of you who hate to miss your favourite programme or who would like to watch a selection of our adventure dvds.

posted by glenmore @ 2:51 pm  0 comments

It's a date for the diary.

MLTA Conference 2009 24/25 October 2009


Booking is now open for MLTAs main event of 2009. Taking place at Plas y Brenin, in North Wales, the purpose of the conference is for members to socialise, network and above all, learn by participating in training.
Workshops will be taking place throughout the weekend, covering a wide variety of subjects from Coaching Climbing Movement to Disability Awareness in Climbing and Bush craft ensuring that members are at the forefront of practice and development within the industry. The workshops will be staffed by some of the most experienced and knowledgeable Guides, Mountaineering Instructors and experts in their field.

Saturday evening will see the main social event of the weekend with the Conference Dinner giving members a chance to network, swap ideas and tips and even simply relax over a couple of beers.

For more information and booking to go:

www.mlta.co.uk/further-training-info.php?id=40

posted by glenmore @ 1:32 pm  0 comments

Over the weekend of 13th/14th June just under 50 of the 58 of young people and their workers gathered together at Glenmore lodge for a training / preparation weekend for undertaking a challenging trek in the Himalayan mountains of Nepal, in November 2009. All the participants camped in the grounds of the lodge, used the facilities and were guided on a preparatory hill walk up Meall a’ Bhuachaille. .

The weekend was organised by Who Cares? Scotland who as a registered charity provide independent advocacy and support to young people looked after away from home throughout Scotland. The aims of the their trip to Nepal is to give young people who have lived in care the opportunity and challenge of a lifetime, to raise money for poor hill communities in Nepal and also support the work of Who Cares? Scotland.

The trek is being undertaken through Community Action Treks which prides itself on it’s ethical and environmentally conscious approach and it’s hoped that the young peoples experience in both preparing and undertaking the trip will instil a positive appreciation of the hills both here and abroad. Each participant need cover their own cost of taking part in the trip as well as supporting the designated charities.

Regional Manager and Nepal trip organiser Grant Gilroy from Who Cares? Scotland thanked Glenmore lodge for being “ extremely helpful and supportive in hosting this important training / preparation weekend. The young people and their workers really enjoyed their experience at the lodge, and appreciated the friendly staff and fantastic surroundings”.

Who Cares? Scotland has set up a special fund to compliment the young peoples fundraising efforts. If you are interested in supporting the young people raise the amount required for them to participate you can find out more by visiting the website below.

"Who Cares? for a Challenge !" - Looked after away from home young people and their workers from throughout Scotland are undertaking the challenge of a lifetime. To find out more click the following link.

www.justgiving.com/nepaltrek2009

posted by glenmore @ 4:25 pm  0 comments

Last chance to book for the Equal Adventure Festival in the Cairngorms National Park! July 4th & 5th 2009.

The Equal Adventure Festival '09 is a chance for friends, family or colleagues to team up and take part in a range of outdoor activities which are open to everyone regardless of ability or agility.

All of the activities have been designed to allow individuals to enjoy the challenge at their own level and pace. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in orienteering, forest hikes, paddling circuits, kayak slalom, and problem-solving team tasks all within the Cairngorms National Park.

All those involved in the Festival will also be raising money for two international charities whose aims are to enable people with varying disabilities in developing countries to live and contribute to society, Motivation and 500 miles.

There will also be a chance to use a spitfire simulator which has been developed in conjunction with real spitfire pilots. Squadron Leader Al Pinner the officer in command of the Battle of Britain memorial flight based at the RAF Conningsby endorses the simulator by saying:

"It is the nearest thing to flying a real spitfire that I have ever experienced"

We also have a range of inspirational lecturers, which will include our very own James Andrew the Scottish mountaineer who had his hands and feet amputated following a horrific accident in the French Alps.

"It seems to me that our greatest limitations are the ones we impose on ourselves. I want to encourage others to throw out these misconceptions and to be all they can be"

Jamie Andrew

It's not all just toil and talk - on the Saturday we also have evening entertainment lined up which includes a traditional Scottish Ceilidh, with dancing and singing.

Accessible Accommodation is available at Glenmore Lodge or you are welcome to camp within the grounds.
For more information
Glenmore Lodge home page or for details or call on 01479 861256
www.equaladventure.org

posted by glenmore @ 9:26 am  0 comments

We have just hoted another week of hillwalking and navigation for the visually impaired. This has been going for many years and some early students return with inspirational stories.

Keith Salmon is one who attended a course in 2001. The fact that the MC of S and Glenmore Lodge were prepared to run courses for the visually impaired stopped him feeling guilty for enjoying the hills as much as anybody else. It also gave him the confidence to go walking knowing that there are ways for visually impaired people to navigate and keep safe and contribute with decision making on a hill day.

Keith's confidence spread into his art and has become a respected artist. This year we would like to send our congratuatlions to him for winning the 2009 Jolomo Award for Scottish Landscape Painting.

Keith came back and gave a presentation last year to the visually impaired hill walking course here at Glenmore Lodge. He was an inspiration.

For those of you who would like to be inspired by Keith see his website at www.keithsalmon.org

posted by glenmore @ 3:46 pm  0 comments

If you've got access to Facebook have a look at surf kayak scotland . Matt Speke has asked us to say that you should feel free to become a member of the group and we should pass on the group details to all kayaking clients at the Lodge.

Thanks Matt
PS the kayaker on the surf kayak page header of the Glenmore lodge site is Matt!

posted by glenmore @ 3:42 pm  0 comments

Wednesday 17 June 2009 12:00

PRESS RELEASE – IMMEDIATE

MOUNTAINEERS URGE RE-THINK ON RAMBLERS SCOTLAND FUTURE

The Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCofS) has called on The Ramblers to reverse their decision to close the Ramblers Scotland office and make staff redundant.

MCofS President, Chris Townsend said:

Ramblers Scotland is a major force in access and conservation work north of the border. This move will have serious consequences in Scotland and suggests that the Ramblers Board in London have little knowledge or understanding of the role Ramblers Scotland plays.

He added:

I have worked with Ramblers Scotland staff and know just how good and committed they are. Losing them will be a big blow to all outdoors people in Scotland.

MCofS Chief Officer, David Gibson said:

Our staff and volunteers work with colleagues at Ramblers Scotland on a range of projects related to access and conservation issues, and encouraging people to enjoy activities in the outdoors. The loss of Ramblers Scotland staff, with their range of skills and experience, is potentially a serious set-back. We want to give our friends at Ramblers Scotland our full support at this difficult time, and urge our members and anyone else who enjoys Scotland’s outdoors to lobby Ramblers in London to reverse this decision, and to provide whatever support they can afford to Ramblers Scotland.

The Mountaineering Council of Scotland (MCofS) acts to represent, support and promote Scottish mountaineering.

MCofS is a membership organisation with 10,500 members representing hill walkers, climbers and mountaineers, funded through a combination of membership subscriptions, grants, and investment from sportscotland which supports public initiatives and services in mountain safety, mountain weather information services, mountain leader training and the development and promotion of mountaineering activities.

Website: www.mcofs.org.uk

Media contact:
David Gibson, Chief Officer.
Telephone 01738-493947 (office) or 07845-919150 (anytime)
Email: davidg@mcofs.org.uk

posted by glenmore @ 1:39 pm  0 comments

Young, old and middleaged from hte past and present Lodge team were represented at the LAMM last weekend.

For the record Ian ( ex-nightwatch and Giles came 5th in the A class having been 11th after the first day. They were 3rd fastest team on the second day.
Nigel was there, Julia Jones was there, Hannah (new Nightwatch) was there, plus our latest marketing graduate placement Scott too as well as two more former nightwatch Liz Brooks and Julia Tregaskis. It was the place to be.

Mark Chadwick did himself proud in the 70 Wild Miles Challenge too by coming 19th which is fantastic when the top places are going to professionals....the hero badge just keeps getting bigger!

There are great events to take part in all over Scotland every weekend. There are another bunch this weekend from the team taking part in the Cairngorm Classic Bike race...the scores will be on the doors on Monday.

posted by glenmore @ 3:43 pm  0 comments

posted by glenmore @ 11:50 am  0 comments

Would you like free training in kayak, canoe, sea kayak, surf kayak, scrambling or climbing?

Part of some of the qualification courses we run requires the students to teach real people. This is where we need you!!

Being a mock client is an excellent way of trying something for the first time or brushing up on the skills you already have.

Most of the paddling courses last from half a day to a whole day and are based from here at Loch Morlich or for the sea kayaking at Onich and the surf at Thurso.

The MIA course involves 2 days, one of which is a scrambling hill day and the other a climbing day (previous experience is required for these days).

A Lodge instructor is always on hand to ensure that you are kept safe.

The instruction is free but you have to cover your own food and accommodation if required.

To apply please contact the lodge for a form to be sent out. If you are successful we will be in touch soon.

Thanks

Glenmore Lodge
01479 861 256

posted by glenmore @ 11:00 am  0 comments

Developing and supporting climbing, walking and mountain leaders

MLTA News May 2009


• MLTA has been running a series of regional workshops this year, aimed at developing and updating skills and knowledge of members. The workshops have been very popular, topics already covered include Disability Awareness, Winter skills and Single Pitch techniques

Workshops coming up soon:-
27th June Mountain Leader Environmental Workshop Lakes
29th June Advanced Ropework for Single Pitch Peak
30th June Problem Solving for Mountain InstructorsPeak
4th July Walking Group Leader workshop Dartmoor
4th July Coaching Navigation Peak
5th July Ropework for Mountain Leaders Peak


• MLTA has an exciting new website www.mlta.co.uk has a fresh look and new features include a regularly updated News section, Job Opportunities and a Find an Instructor facility which is open to public view.


• This year’s Conference is now open for booking. The event is taking place at the National Mountain Centre at Plas y Brenin on 24th and 25th October. Workshops will be taking place over the weekend giving members an opportunity to learn about something new, socialise and enjoy the beautiful North Wales countryside.

posted by glenmore @ 10:55 am  0 comments

Level 2 Certificate in Cycle Coaching in Inverness on 22-23 Aug and 14 Nov. Just ask anyone interested to contact us. Funding is available through our Coaching Scholarship Scheme or Coaching Highland. No previous coaching experience required.

For information contact

Jenny Wright

Education & Training Officer

Scottish Cycling

The Velodrome

London Road

Edinburgh

EH7 6AD

t. 0131 652 0187 f. 0131 661 0474

jenny.wright@scottishcycling.org.uk

posted by glenmore @ 12:31 pm  0 comments

Mountain Leader Training Wales – National Development Officer
MLT is seeking to appoint a part time (0.7) Mountain Leader Training Wales National Development Officer to work from their offices at Siabod Cottage, Capel Curig, North Wales. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of Mountain Leader Training in Wales and the UK. The successful candidate will be a dynamic and innovative individual with excellent interpersonal and communication skills and a proven track record in MLT award course delivery.

Salary: £19, 600 (£28,000 pro rata)
Start date for post: As soon as possible
The post is offered initially for a 2-year period.

For an information pack please contact: Sue Doyle, Mountain Leader Training UK, Siabod Cottage, Capel Curig, Conwy, LL24 0ES or email; sue@mltuk.org

The closing date for applications is 17.00, Monday 29th June 2009.

Interviews will be held on 17th July at Siabod Cottage, Capel Curig.

posted by glenmore @ 12:16 pm  0 comments

The Equal Adventure Festival 09 is your opportunity to participate in a range of outdoor activities regardless of abilities. Join in, improve existing skills, meet new people and build your team spirit. Come and enjoy the beauty and adventure of the forests and lakes of the Cairngorm National Park on the 4th and 5th of July.

The Equal Adventure Festival 09 is a weekend event providing opportunities for teams of disabled and non disabled people to participate and raise money for two international charities, Motivation and 500 Miles.

The Equal Adventure Festival 09 provides individual outdoor challenges for all its participants. The activities available will take place on both water and land and will be grouped into three areas of challenge; skill, endurance and problem solving. Teams will be able to choose to incorporate all of these areas into their weekend or select from within them. All of the activities have been designed to allow individuals to take up a challenge at their own level and pace. Activities available will include; orienteering, forest hikes, paddling circuits, kayak slalom, problem-solving team tasks and use of a spitfire simulator! Evening entertainments include a Ceilidh, and a range of inspirational lectures.

The Festival is being organised by Equal Adventure, a registered charity which resources and inspires inclusive adventure and active lifestyles with disabled people.

The Festival will be based at Glenmore Lodge, who are hosting the event and where accessible accommodation is available on a first-come first-served basis. There are camping sites also available.

The event is open to everyone. The only requirement for the event is a positive attitude – all levels of ability and agility are welcome. We will be very happy to discuss individual requirements that will enable full participation and enjoyment of the event.

posted by glenmore @ 4:00 pm  0 comments

Sweet Prophecy Dry Top

The highly technical Sweet Prophecy dry top is made with all the details and features you need. Using the best materials available, GORE-TEX® Pro Shell, the Prophecy design is clean-cut and combined with a technical fit it provides the best possible function and performance. Packed with technical details, the top includes a large, easy-access, two-sided entry front pocket allowing you to keep the important stuff easy at hand, while the welded left arm pocket keeps your earplugs or other smaller items accessible and secure.

The lower body is protected by a fully flexible and soft neoprene tunnel, and wide elastic bands will ensure your deck is secure at all times.

Available at all good kayak shops. Sizes: S, M, L, XL
Colours: Scorch Red/Grey, Sassy Green/Grey RRP: £319.95
Website: www.sweetprotection.com

Distributed by www.systemxkayak.co.uk

posted by glenmore @ 3:28 pm  0 comments

NEWS RELEASE

Haggis High Tea – on top of Ben Nevis!

Hillwalkers and challenge seekers are being urged to sign up for Scotland's ultimate high tea – haggis, neeps and tatties at the summit of Ben Nevis.

Mountain Aid, a new charity helping injured hill-goers and promoting mountain safety, is organising its first major fundraising event – ‘High Tea’ on top of Ben Nevis for 100 sponsored diners – on Saturday 22 August, 2009.

The aim is to raise in excess of £10,000 by serving High Tea to 100 people at 4409ft on the top of Ben Nevis. Each person is asked to raise a minimum of £100 in sponsorship.

Volunteers from the charity will feed 20 people over five separate sittings. Diners will enjoy a full haggis dinner (veggie haggis optional) followed by a selection of cakes and home baking served on a traditional two-tier cake plate, washed down with tea – or a wee dram!

Mountain Aid chairman Alex Slimon said:

“In this year of Homecoming, what more appropriate meal to serve for Scotland’s Highest High Tea than haggis!”

“Dress code for diners will be optional but pearls and twin sets are encouraged, and not necessarily just for the ladies! “There will be prizes for the best dressed individual, couple and group, to be awarded at an evening auction and prize-giving in Fort William on the same day.”

“We don’t think anyone’s ever done this before on Ben Nevis and we think it’s an ideal fundraiser for Mountain Aid’s launch. “Because it’s Britain’s highest mountain – not just Scotland’s - we’ve contacted the Guinness Book of Records to see if we can go for a world record.”

“Needless to say Ben Nevis will be left spotless after the event, with Mountain Aid not only clearing up after the High Tea but collecting other rubbish both on the summit and the main path down.”

Mountain Aid has risen from the ashes of Scottish hill-walking charity ‘Boots Across Scotland’, which is being disbanded by its Trustees after 20 years of successfully serving the hill-going community. Former committee members felt there was still a real need for training in mountain safety, assistance for injured hill-goers and support for Mountain Rescue efforts….so Mountain Aid was born.

Mountain Aid is also looking for ‘Sherpas’ to help with the High Tea event. Anyone who is willing to give a hand with organising or carrying supplies to the summit is asked to get in touch.

To take part in an event guaranteed to be great fun, unforgettable, worthwhile and challenging, please visit www.mountainaid.org.uk

Mountain Aid is free to join, and all members and supporters will have an equal say in running the organisation. Former ‘Boots Across Scotland’ members are especially urged to join, which can be done at www.mountainaid.org.uk or email moreinfo@mountainaid.org.uk Donations can be made easily and quickly via www.justgiving.com/mountainaid
ends

For more information please contact publicity@mountainaid.org.uk or telephone 0844 870 9284 or 07855458455

posted by glenmore @ 3:25 pm  0 comments

This year the registration is going quick...59 kayakers from 16 nationas are registrated. If you like to enter for 100% you should registrate soon.....this year is a limt of 100 competitors!!!

We can consider ourselves lucky in these tough economic times as our partners would like to continue with the adidas-sickline extreme kayak world championships......,-)

For the third time, the best slalom kayakers on the globe will meet the world’s best whitewater kayakers for a special kind of challenge: Between the 1st and 4th of October 2009, we will determine the adidas Sickline Extreme Kayak World Champion on Austria’s legendary “Wellerbrücke” river section in the Ötztal valley. On Thursday evening, October 1st, the Extreme Kayak World Championship officially starts with the registration of all participants at Saal Ötz.

If you have any questions please contact myself.

I´m looking forward to seeing you all soon

Olaf
Event Info: http://adidas-sickline.com/index.php?id=23&L=0
Registration link: http://adidas-sickline.com/index.php?id=36&L=0

posted by glenmore @ 3:20 pm  0 comments

June 1st to 7th is Volunteers Week in the UK - a time to celebrate voluntary work in all sectors. Winners of this years prestigious Queens Award for Voluntary Service have just been announced and there are two from Scottish sport.
Scottish Winners: Basketballpaisley and Inverclyde Athletic Club
This is a group volunteering award and is viewed as being equivalent to an MBE. Please see link below and congratulate them if you come across them. Also if you do voluntary work of any kind in Scotland - well done! Here at Glenmore Lodge we try to support volunteers in the adventure industry by providing training at half the normal price in partnership with Grangers for a dedicated week in July . See our Volunteers Programme in our brochure or on click on the tab on our home page.

For mor einformation on the Queens Award for Voluntary Service go to:http://www.queensawardvoluntary.gov.uk/winners/scotland09.html

Scottish Volunteer Groups recognised by the Queens Award
Badenoch and Strathspey Community Transport Company
Providing essential transport to elderly and disabled residents in widespread isolated rural communities.

basketballpaisley
Engaging in local community initiatives to support the needs of young people by improving opportunities and reducing crime.

Brechin Youth Project
Offering a safe, alcohol and drug free environment for young people to experience a wide range of activities.

Dalbeattie Museum
Providing a community facility for the conservation and promotion of local history.

The Gordon Highlanders Museum
Preserving the legacy and regimental treasures of the world-famous Gordon Highlanders.

The Haven
Offering support to patients and their families in Lanarkshire affected by serious and life-changing conditions.

Inverclyde Athletic Club
Upholding an outstanding record of achievement in athletics in the region.

Keith Cancer Link
Providing a vital support to cancer patients, their carers, family members and friends in Keith and the surrounding area.

Lochside Theatre
Providing a community theatre in Castle Douglas equipped to high professional standards.

Multiple Sclerosis Centre Mid-Argyll
Providing accessible therapeutic services and support to people affected by Multiple Sclerosis in Mid Argyll and Kintyre.

The Wick Society
A museum which serves as an educational resource for local residents researching the history of the town and its past fishing industry.

posted by glenmore @ 3:10 pm  0 comments

By any normal standards, Blyth led a very full life:

Blyth the Mountaineer
Blyth the Skier
Blyth who raced Motorbikes
Blyth the Election Agent and Politician
Blyth the Raconteur, Guitar Player, Singer, Performer
Blyth the Author and Translator
Blyth a significant security threat to the then Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher
Blyth the Professional Mountaineering and Ski Instructor (Alpine and Nordic)
Blyth the Coordinator of the Scottish Avalanche Information Service
Blyth the Member of the Search and Rescue Dog Association
Blyth the Mentor and Coach

And so much more.

So lets start with Blyth the Mountaineer:
It was at Kirkcaldy High School that he first became interested in climbing, then through university where he joined the Corriemulzie Mountaineering Club.
He went on to Teacher Training College at Moray House, a spell working in Edinburgh and Glenrothes as a youth worker, he then made his way to Fort William to work at the Loch Eil Centre. He was part of a team that developed Polldubh and he went on to co-author the Polldubh Guide Book with Klaus Schwartz.
Right up until the early 2000s, Blyth was still developing new routes. He always seemed to have a secret crag X. His first Alpine trip was in 1963 at the age of 20 and his passion for Alpine Mountaineering grew from that which, in turn, led to a position as Assistant Director at the International School of Mountaineering in Leysin working alongside Dougal Haston. The Club Vagabond scene at the time was something that suited Blyth perfectly. Friendships established there were to last his lifetime. He moved back to Scotland to take up an appointment as a permanent instructor in 1976 at Glenmore Lodge – a position he held for 15 years.
He enjoyed a lifetime of climbing and his ascent of Ama Dablam at the age of 60 was something he was rightly very proud of.

Blyth had a long association with Mountain Rescue and, for a time, a particular interest in the Search and Rescue Dog Association.

Blyth the Politician:
As an employee of a public agency, Blyths contract clearly stated that he should not participate in any political activity – so he didnt. However, his identical twin brother was very active. Climbing ability meant that SNP placards were placed higher up the streetlamps of Badenoch and Strathspey than the rest of the oppositions. At election times Blyth would frequently be on leave or would just go missing for weeks on end. He was Convenor of the Inverness East, Nairn and Lochaber Constituency Association for much of the 90s and he was the election agent for Fergus Ewing in the 1992 Westminster election and in 1999 when Fergus won the seat at the first Holyrood election. He attended the official opening of the first Scottish Parliament on 1 July 1999 and was introduced to the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh - the meeting made all the more interesting by a few too many pre-meeting drinks – presumably just to steady his nerves.

His involvement in politics singled him out for special treatment when the then Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, made an official visit to Glenmore Lodge and, as she wasnt the most popular of Prime Ministers in Scotland, security for her visit was very tight. For weeks before, a constant stream of security advisors visited Glenmore. The place was searched from end to end and every member of staff had to be vetted. It appears that Blyth was well known to the security agents and it was made very clear to him that he should take leave for that period. Blyth, I think, was proud to be considered a security risk to Margaret Thatcher.

Blyth the Scottish Avalanche Information Service Coordinator:
After a trip in 1977 to the Swiss Federal Institute in Davos, Blyth, along with Fred Harper, Ben Beattie and Bob Barton, began to take a particular interest in the study of snow and avalanches. At that time, Hamish McInnes, Eric Langmuir and Fred Harper were actively pursuing ways in which they might improve the level of understanding amongst Scottish mountaineers. This led eventually to the establishment of the Scottish Avalanche Project in 1988. Then a carefully planned ambush of the Chair of the Scottish Sports Council by Hamish McInnes, Eric Langmuir, Sam Galbraith and Michael Forsyth led to funding being made available for the Scottish Avalanche Information Service. Andy Andersons friendship with Michael Forsyth was not insignificant in all of this. Blyth was appointed Coordinator – a job that he performed in an inimitable Blyth-style. He was passionate about the service and fiercely proud of its successes and recognition at an international level. Without his determination and, sometimes, sheer cussedness, the avalanche service we know today would not exist.

Blyth the Coach and Mentor: he had the ability to recognise talent – I mean climbing talent – and he acted as coach and mentor to many up and coming young climbers. Whilst people of Blyths standing and experience might have been inclined to be aloof and elitist, Blyth gave his time and encouragement to many young people, frequently finding himself climbing challenging routes with people half his age.

Blyth the Author and Translator:
Blyth had a gift for languages: English which he studied at St Andrews University and French which he perfected during his time in the Alps. He co-wrote 'A Chance in a Million' along with Bob Barton plus many other articles and I know he had been working on his memoirs. He recently had been responsible for the translation of a number of books and articles from French into English, among them 'Avalanche' by Robert Bolognesi.
The daily avalanche reports from the observers were carefully scrutinised to ensure correct grammatical presentation.

Blyth the Entertainer:
Blyth, of course, loved a good party - the stories, the singing and the guitar – the inevitable trips to the Winkie, the Tavern and the Old Bridge Inn. He could be excellent company. No one addressed the Haggis in quite such an energetic and theatrical style. Just last September he received a standing ovation for his performance at the Glenmore Lodge 60th birthday celebrations.


Blyth was his own man. He did things his way. He was single-minded, determined and could be very stubborn. And you know, these characteristics were exactly what he needed during the last 18 months of his life.

He was faced with the biggest challenge that any of us will ever have to endure.
He was genuinely surprised and overwhelmed by the support and concern shown by so many. However, this was simply their way of saying thank you to Blyth for all that he had given.

Blyth was one of lifes characters and we will never see the like again. He enriched the lives of so many people.

Thank you Blyth – may you now rest in peace.

posted by glenmore @ 2:57 pm  0 comments