Page 35 - 2013 AMA Spring

Maj Mchenery enjoying the view whilst taking on some much needed food and water in rare shade on the first stage
on the island but following the Daily Risk Assessment and looking at how tired the group was, the difficult decision was made to go to plan B and conduct local low level SMF training assisted by Sgt Lesley Bayne and give the group some rest. We had got to know an Irish duo who welcomed us as our group arrived at each hut, sharing hill stories we knew they moved quickly. Our guidebook suggested a round trip of time of 7 hours to complete Monte Cinto, they returned after 12 hours. Decision vindicated.
Duly rested and keen to get going today was our turn to tackle the strenuous and memorable Cirque de la Solitude. The long 200 metre rock route is known to be daunting. As you descend your feet literally disappear from under you, scrambling and rock climb- ing techniques definitely required. Confidence and attitude grew all-round as novice climbers Sig Tazar Salamut, LCpl Jon Corfield and Cpl Neil Hewitt were seen scrambling up the opposite side, pulling on the fixed chains, no doubt all experiencing a range of emotions best summed up by the HUGE grin seen on Sig Joan Simmons face as she successfully completed the route. Job done and one more night’s sleep on the hill at Refuge Tighettu then downhill for tea and medals.
Don’t underestimate the GR20. It is physically and mentally demanding, Alpine starts are crucial in order to avoid the oppres- sive and savage mid-day sun similar at times to that experienced on Telic/Herrick, long 8-9 hour plus hill days, 14kg packs combined with knee grinding 1200 metre plus ascents and descents each day, chuck in a bit of scrambling and exposure, rinse and repeat. Our team did brilliantly, completing the route and their Summer Moun- tain Foundation. Do the GR20 in your lifetime, you won’t regret it.
the stunning low level view across the valley (near calenzana)
cpl nielsen von-reitzig being dwarfed by the magnificent scenery all around. Location – Bocca Piccaia
expedition complete at Bocca Muvrella (1980 m)
Lcpl Goring ponders the whereabouts of his sun hat
Sig Searle making his way up the initial scrambling phase on the first day
ARMY MOUNTAINEER 33