Page 19 - Cadet Review Spring 2021

An Lochan Uaine
So much so, that routes for the next two days were planned the same day, a circuit of Ben Rinnes the following day as the weather was expected to be mixed – it was, and for the day after Sgor Gaoith (The Windy Peak) which was a long day but worth it for the views. At one point during the walk several gliders were spotted, all below the height of the walkers.
Unfortunately, the following day and a half showed that the Scottish weather is not completely favourable and heavy rain prevailed, and on the grounds that the visibility was so poor low level activities were undertaken but at least half a day was useful walking on one of the hills local to the camp site.
The final day proved that it had been well worth while undertaking the trek to Scotland with a day
to An Lochan Uaine (The Green Lochan), close by Glenmore and the ascent of Meall a Bhuachaille and the ridge to the west.
Going back to the start and the question – so what was achieved? Five completely different QMDs, all with something different, be it the terrain, the height gained and somewhat unpredictably, the weather conditions. Fortunately, the latter was nowhere near as bad as it could have been at other times of the year, and, whilst not critical one important factor not mentioned was the almost complete lack of midges, which made for a much pleasanter experience altogether.
Was it worth it? Absolutely. The opportunity to walk different mountain ranges is part of staying up to date and maintaining qualifications; the physical challenges also helped after such a long time on flat land. Would I do it again? Certainly, the opportunity to catch up with like minded friends was a real bonus and plans are being hatched for different parts of the Highlands this year if possible, but preferably without midges!
Finally, the burning question put to Buster, would you do it again? “First of all, my dad sold me on the idea of a walk, little knowing he was in cahoots with Lennie Cowieson, so I thought it would be like other days on the moors. Little did I know that 100 km later I would be feeling fitter, fresher and have climbed some jolly big hills. Would I do it again? Hmmm!
If you are interested in learning more or attending any of the courses run by all three services or even outside the Cadet Forces you can find out much more by looking to see what is on offer at the following websites:
Was it worth it? Absolutely.
CCAT – Cadet Centre for Adventure Training
www.armycadetadventure.co.uk
Mountain Training
www.mountain-training.org
CADET REVIEW SPRING 2021 19