Page 33 - 2019 AMA Winter

Maddy and Kate topping out on Piton Route (VS 4c)
Maddy and Kate climbing Faith
Lots of people arrived on the Friday evening and either opted to socialise in the Indy bar or head into the local village in Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrob- wllllantysiliogogogoch or as most people call it, Llanfair PG.
The Saturday morning started with breakfast followed by the arrival brief. The weather was fantastic, so good in fact, I felt sorry for those that had opted to do the two-day mountain first aid course as they would be sat inside for most of the day. There was also a contour only navigation masterclass and a climbing psychology workshop all were well subscribed. The remainder of the members who had not booked a workshop were then split into groups and headed to the various brilliant crags and mountains in North Wales.
I was paired up with Kate and Maddy, after a quick discussion we decided to head to Idwal Slabs. This was to be Maddy’s first ever multi-pitch climb. We climbed Hope (VD) and after a spot of lunch we decided to do Piton Route (VS 4C). It was a very social day out as there were another two AMA pairs climbing next to us. Dan and Phil, followed by James A and James B who met us at the big ledge and continued up Lazarus, after this Dan and Phil opted for a Groove Above (S 4B) whilst the two James’s decided upon The Arete (VD).
By the time we descended and got back to the van, there was no time for coffee and cake at the Siabod Café, I felt guilty after telling the girls about how good the cakes were, only to deny them at the very end! The reason was we had to get back for an early evening curry supper prior to the AGM. During the AGM we
said goodbye to General Ivan Hooper who has been the AMA President for the last few years. In a fitting tribute, he was presented with two gifts as a token of the AMAs appreciation for all his support and guidance during his tenure. Our newest AMA member Tom Clayton presented a book, whilst one of our honorary Vice Presidents, Lt Col (Retd) John Muston presented a wooden walking axe.
A quick pause for a drink at the bar was swiftly followed by the icing on the cake for the evening which was a lecture by Simon Yates from ‘Touching the Void’. It was a real privilege to hear about Simons exploits. One could not help but feel inspired by his achievements, so much so that he sold many signed books in the bar that evening!
The rest of the evening involved socialising in the bar. We were supported by Helix and Paramo for the evening. Both companies brought along some equipment to demo and sell which was very much appreciated by the members. It is fascinating to see how much of a bargain some shiny new kit appears to be after a few beers have been consumed! Sean Mackay kindly organised a raffle which resulted in some very happy people walking away with some great prizes.
It was great to see so many people attend the weekend and get on well together. It is encouraging to see new blood join the AMA, we need them to keep the association going. It was also brilliant to chat with our retired members who have so many great stories to tell and wisdom to share.
Sunday was far less kind and promised rain. We couldn’t really complain as the
previous day had been utterly amazing. Some went climbing others went walking and scrambling. Once the days activities had finished it was great to get messages from so many people saying, they had a fantastic weekend. Afterall, this is what it is all about.
The AGM was very well attended, and long may that continue. I would like to thank all the instructors that attended and put the students’ wishes before their own. Some people approached me to ask if they could volunteer to run meets in the next year. If you are reading this and you fancy running a meet, the answer is a resounding yes! Thanks to everyone that made the effort to attend, I hope to see you again next year. One final request, if you enjoyed it, please encourage others to attend with you next year.
The President presented with his Axe by the longest serving member
The President presented with his book by the newest AMA member
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