Page 7 - 2003 AMA Summer

mountains had become overcast and the afternoon brought with it heavy mist
and thunderstorms. As much as we enjoyed a plate of
frites in the shelter of the crag side café, the rain was pre­ venting our progress on the rocks.
We returned to Corte and established ourselves at the Premiere Ecole in the Restonica Valley. The crag had good access and similar graded climbs to those in Bavella. Everyone had caught the bug by now and the challenges being set
were becoming harder. No- one was prepared to be beaten by a route and if the unspeakable did occur then
it left a scar and a pledge to return. Again the weather plagued us and it was time
to retreat to the coast in search of unbroken sunshine. So it was off to the holiday
resort of lie Rousse we went.
Arriving mid afternoon meant we had time after setting up camp to get in a few more routes. In the early evening sunshine we climbed on rocks near the waters edge below the lighthouse tower. The final climbs took place with the setting sun and
gave way to a beautifully warm night. This gave us the opportunity to relax in the old town and try out the days catch with a feast of sea food.
During the next couple of days we got our wish with long days on the rocks and temperatures in the mid­ thirties. It was real climbing in bikini weather! The new
The team on the summit of Monte Cinto
location gave way to new challenges with a more technical style of climbing required and less brut strength needed. Our last full day climbing was spent on a few multi-pitch routes. Each person got the chance to practice the skills they had learnt and either lead or second a five pitch route that unveiled beautiful views of the mountain valley below.
We headed back to Ajaccio full of spirit and pleased with our achievements over the past two weeks. We spent an evening in Corsica’s capital before leaving the island and made the most of the location. Attired in shorts and t-shirts we went to a smart looking restaurant to eat, then headed to the
beach for a final toast to the sun, the sea, the sand and most importantly the Corsican
rocks.
As we flew home we tried to adjust to the thought of returning to our everyday lives. Each member of the group had triumphed in their own little way; whether it be trekking to the highest peak on the island, carrying on with activities despite illness or injury, gaining their Rock Climbing Proficiency having never climbed before, or simply finding out
about their own personal aspirations.
From my point of view the expe­ dition was a complete
success - we achieved our aims, were flexible enough to alter our itinerary to suit the changeable weather and all came away with smiles on our faces and sun kissed skin! Infact 2003’s rock climbing expedition is already in the pipe line, with Spain to be host to the sun, sea, sand and rocks!
Steve Willson and Kat Clouting climbing at Solonzarg,
' By Tim Bird. +•VI
Ardenbeg
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Bunkhouse and Outdoor Centre
Excellent S/C accommodation for up to 24. Family or group rooms at £10.00 per person per night. Located in Grantown-on-Spey, dose to Aviemore and the Cairngorms. Great for expert or beginner.
Drying room, hot showers, TV etc.
Equipment hire and/or tuition available. Discounts for military visitors and their friends and family.
Visit - www.ardenbeg.co.uk
Telephone: 01479 872824 Email: enquiries@ ardenbeg.co.uk
ARMY MOUNTAINEER