Page 69 - LBV 2017

INTER-COMPANY TRAINING & VISITS
(L-R) OCdt Todd, SUO Warner, OCdt Pineda-Sampson, OCdt Miller, CSgt Holmes & OCdt McLean
visibility conditions in the morning were poor, with flat light and strong winds; however, it brightened up throughout the day. We completed a total of 24km covering red off-piste tracks in the hidden valley.
Day 4 was our touring experience. Covering a distance of 3.72km, starting from the Bolsterlang resort to Ofterschwanger Horn. The morning presented challenging conditions with strong freezing winds and poor visibility. As a team,
we dug a snow profile which uncovered how,
in that area and snow conditions, an avalanche was a potential risk. However, the snow profile also showed there was a good, strong base of well compacted snow. While closer to the top demonstrated the potential of a crusty layer on top of a softer uncompressed layer. The route was led by two Officer Cadets and, despite a few navigational challenges, the expedition was carried out in the correct amount of time with no major issues.
To finalise the trip, the ski instructor gave us the opportunity to practise what we had learnt during the week, consolidating all the skills
and drills, by using off-piste and moguls. We were given the opportunity to re-enact how we would manage an avalanche rescue mission; by
OCdt Miller & OCdt Pineda-Sampson
dividing the group into different sections, to cover ground and different tasks, made sure the task was completed with sufficient time. To finish the day, the instructor went through how to pack
an expedition rucksack and what equipment he finds useful whilst touring.
Everyone achieved Ski Foundation 3 with the recommendation to complete a few more tours before looking at the Ski leader options.
OCdt Pineda-Sampson,
B (Ladysmith) Company, University of East Anglia
OCdt Pineda-Sampson
THE LIGHT BLUE VOLUNTEER 67