Page 36 - 2018 AMA Summer

CLIMBINGMEETS
NORTH WALES MEET
By Khemchandra Gurung
The members of Army Mountaineering Association planned to get together for the annual North Wales Meet
over the weekend of 24-25 Mar 18
With kind acknowledgement by the Commanding Officer 16 Signal Regiment as the DDH, the event was planned and advertised on the AMA website. The applications soon started flooding in and the tri-service Nuffield Centre at Anglesey was booked for accommodation. Its first class accom- modation and close proximity from the Snowdon National Park resulted in it being an easy choice.
After Training Over Private Land authority for the event was granted and UAAT form signed off, the participants arrived at Anglesey on 23 Mar 18 for the adventurous weekend. On the morning of 24 Mar 18, the senior instructor Capt Lang briefed the team on essence of the keeping within the remits of JSP 419. Then, the participants were teamed with respective instructors for the activities (multi-pitch climbing and hill walking). With competent skill levels in the hill walking team led by myself, the decision was made to hike up to Snowdon summit through Rhyd Ddu path and descend using Watkin path. The route provided plenty of opportunity to challenge our navigation and technical skills. The team embarked on the hike from the car park, along the stream and piles of slate rocks. With good weather forecast, the team were accompanied by other hiking groups notably youth groups on DoE award scheme. Upon reaching the summit, the temperature was around 0°C. Re-energised after quick lunch break, the team set off on the steep descent along Watkin path. The team stopped at various places to admire the scenery and the history of the desolate mining site. After necessary end-of-hike stretch, the team headed back to accommodation to reflect
on the achievements of the day. Some participants made the most of self-ca- tering kitchen whilst others resorted to facility at the local public house.
Next morning, the participants gathered for the brief with weary eyes. The activity for the day was ‘Climbing’ at Termadog. Soon after handing over the accommoda- tion, all participants gathered at the Pant Ifan crag for single pitch climbing. Rock Climbing Supervisors amongst the team grabbed opportunity to lead and setup the climb. The activity continued till lunch time. With exhausted arms and legs, all participants thanked the senior instructor, Capt Lang, before making their way back home.
All in all, the aim of the meet to practise summer mountaineering skills including climbing and hill waking was thoroughly achieved. All participants fully enjoyed the event and are planning to attend future AMA meets.
Single pitch climbing with glorious weather
Multi-pitch climbing with the rare good weather
36 / ARMY MOUNTAINEER
Nick and Sally full of enthusiasm on route down via the Watkin Path