Page 13 - The Light Blue Volunteer Journal 2022

Ex CORSICA BLUE
We arrived at our campsite in Corsica after a long 30 hour journey. In the 34 degree heat it was a big adjustment from back home, which was certainly one of our biggest challenges throughout the trip.
Trekking
By far the highlight of the trip was when we climbed Monte Cinto, the highest peak on the island. We started out by leaving the afternoon before to drive to
a mountain refuge where we were to spend the night, stopping on the way to swim in a beautiful lagoon that lay on
the route. Once at the refuge we spent the evening getting ready for the next day’s adventure and resting up. We set off at 5am the following day in an effort to avoid the worst of the heat, although
it was already incredibly warm by this point. The route initially took us through several kilometres of upward sloping forest however this quickly gave way to an incredible view over rocky slopes and distant peaks. At this point the journey rapidly became much more technically difficult as we had to essentially scramble up several hundred metres of rock slopes, which provided an exciting challenge for those of us used to trekking on the much easier slopes of England. It was very intense, especially as the heat started to set in and we had to make sure to pace ourselves so we could keep plodding up the steep shale covered areas of the mountain. It was incredibly rewarding to eventually reach the top, especially as several of us had started
to wonder if we were capable of making it up, and it was only through sheer grit and determination that we managed to get to the summit. After a short stop to enjoy the incredible views and rehydrate ourselves, we then began the long trek down the mountain, satisfied that we had really pushed ourselves to the limit.
Rock Climbing
After our recce the on day 1, we
decided to visit Monte Cararincu on
the first day climbing, as had multiple climbs the majority of which were a lower grade than Serra Pignu so a
good location for the first day. The
group consisted of mixed abilities: 2 members had completed both there climbing foundation and competent second award, 3 members had previous experience climbing and there was
one beginner. Therefore, initially we refreshed/were taught how to tie into a rope and the names and basics of pieces of equipment such as quick draws and carabiniers. Throughout the course of the day, we each attempted 6 climbs varying in difficult from 4a-5c.
On the second day we went to Serra Pignu and split into two groups and went to either end of the crag. One group completed some shorter climbs graded at 4a and 5c whilst the other group attempted a longer more challenging 6a climb which required strong grip strength to ascend the middle section of the slab.
Throughout the week we visited multiple other locations such as Ilsula Rossa and Tipponu-a crag not listed in the guidebook but one which we found when looking for a suitable area to be taught skills about placing equipment for trad climbing.
We presented with a challenge at Ilula Rossa as the crag was in full sun and there was little shade available, as well as creating an uncomfortable environment it also caused the rocks to heat up, making climbing more difficult. This meant we had to adjust our expectations of what was possible and ensure we were sensible by taking regular breaks and drinking lots of water. We wanted to return to this particular crag to do some of the other climbs there, so we camped on the crag overnight allowing us to
begin climbing as soon as the sun came up when it was slightly cooler.
Around half the group managed
to make it to the top bolt of the 6a however by the end of the week the whole group were climbing at that level, demonstrating the development of skills. As well as developing our climbing skills we also had lessons on rigging a top rope and placing gear for trad climbing. Armed with this knowledge towards
the end of the week we were able to complete some dummy leads, improving our confidence and giving us a sense of what is required for lead climbing and the skills we need to develop further.
Throughout the week we gained confidence by having to focus in stressful situations. It taught us how by moving only a couple of inches higher offers up
a multitude of different possible foot and hand holds, highlighting that making a seemingly tiny amount of progress can make it possible to achieve things you didn’t think you could. Many of us have been inspired to take climbing further and get our next qualifications-one of
us has already booked onto the Rock Climbing Supervisors course.
Overall our trip to Corsica was incredibly enjoyable and fulfilling, and we all really felt like we had pushed ourselves to our limit, as well as learning lots about how to plan future expeditions and overcome challenges.
OCdts Black & Charles
THE LIGHT BLUE VOLUNTEER 13