The last time we had a Xmas meet in this area was 2008, when the Bus continued to Newtonmore. This time it was felt there were more walking options in the Cairngorms, if the weather was not kind, so the Bus terminated at the ski car park. The turn out of 36 people was one of the lowest in living memory and may be a reflection of the current economic climate? With a membership of 116, it is still slightly strange that two thirds are not interested or unable to attend the Xmas meet! Perhaps it should be a New Year resolution of the Club to design a function which would attract every member – or is that unattainable? Has it ever happened? On that note, it was nice to see Peter and Fleur Goodwin travel up fromGloucesterfor this meet! In 2008, we paid £13 for the meal at the Cairngorm Hotel, and this time it was £19. Bus fares have been held at £12 since 2007.
The Cairngorms are an ideal location for any walking, providing top end mountaineering in the Northern Corries or easier levels strolls around Glenmore and Loch Morlich. With this in mind, those at the sharp end, decided to tackle the scrambly Fiacaill ridge, taking the opportunity to don full winter kit. Others headed up to the Cairngorm summit, via the Ptarmigan restaurant, in generally very good weather conditions, for most of the day. Another large group got off at Glenmore, heading for Meall a’ Bhuachaille (the Little Shepherd) via Ryvoan Bothy. A more leisurely stroll around Loch Morlich was the option for the remaining waifs and strays. A brief coffee stop at the Squirrel café (where we did see a squirrel!), was followed by 2 laps of the camp site – trying to find the correct path (well it was buried in snow!), preceded the stroll. Pre dinner drinks in the Old Bridge Inn rounded off an enjoyable day out.
Tackling the Faicaill Ridge
After the dinner in the Cairngorm Hotel, the Vice President, Dave Whitelock made a brief speech on Club affairs including the importance of members volunteering to serve on the committee. The Club cannot function properly without a regular input from new members willing to help out. He concluded by congratulating Andy Lawson on completing his Corbetts, and presented him with an engraved Quaich. For those members who missed this meet, there is an opportunity to visit this area again in January, where winter skills training will be provided. Details on the website.
Party Time!
Best wishes for 2012 and remember: Hill walking is true mountaineering, however the hard-bitten rock climber may regard it. Walking is the head and corner stone of all mountain climbing, whether we are dealing with the little 1000ft hill near our homes or taking part in an assault on an unclimbed 20,000ft giant in theHimalaya. In certain kinds of weather and atmospheric lighting the one can look almost as beautiful and impressive as the other.
John Henderson