Enjoying Risk in the Mountains

the theUpdateUpdate WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65

WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 georgeﬁ sher.co.uk Skiing this winter? Our clothing and equipment picks on pages 4-7 Enjoying risk in the mountains

Which is more serious? Winter or summer walking? The answer is arguably neither as it depends on a multitude of factors - your experience, personal gear, route choice, weather and lastly your attitude to risk. Our last issue of The Update led with a story about mountain rescue and how MRT teams are becoming swamped with frivolous calls from people in the mountains, “who want a free guiding service rather than a rescue”. Since then of course, the OMM in October hit the headlines across the world with “1700 people missing in the mountains” and “coming within inches of turning the Lake District into a morgue”. The interesting fact to emerge from all this hysterical coverage was the inability of the media and authorities to understand that many people actually enjoy seeking out risk. Some risk, or at least perceived risk is a good thing. We go into the mountains to enjoy the challenges they present, whether that’s an exhilarating scramble up Sharp Edge in the sun or persisting to the summit of Skiddaw in a frozen white-out. With the right knowledge and equipment, being out in the mountains in foul weather actually has its own appeal – the satisfaction of being in control in a situation that to many other people would be very worrying indeed. Our own Chris Knox was a competitor on this year’s OMM and describes his experience on page 10. As he says; “That’s the whole point; it’s supposed to be a self-supported adventure where you and your partner decide how much you can do within the normal rules of mountain safety.” Surely the most telling fact relates to the Mountain Rescue organisations. Far from advising OMM organisers not to go ahead with the event as reported, in fact 172 off- duty MRT members were actually competing in the event for their own enjoyment. To return to our earlier question, arguably winter walking has more potential for risk given that a simple accident can more rapidly turn into a serious situation in blizzard conditions. So if you’re heading out on the fells this winter, are you fully prepared? Mixing risk and enjoyment in winter. Photo: Andy Perkins

FREE POWER FOR ALL In this issue... Montane: light is right (p3) Ideas for a few eco-friendly, high performance items that a tough carry pouch developed to protect them any outdoor enthusiast will love: in the most hostile of environments. What’s in store this winter? Freeloader (£30) is a portable charging system that can power The Freeplay self-sufﬁ cient ﬂ ashlight (p4/5) any handheld device anywhere, anytime. Freeloader takes (£20) uses a wind-up system for when power from its solar panels or via its charge cable that plugs you can’t afford to be left in the dark Latest ski into a computer USB. Once charged, Freeloader’s internal by dead batteries. A quick wind (about and mountain battery can power an iPod for 18hours, a mobile phone for 30 seconds) gives approximately 8 minutes hardware (p7) 44 hours or a PDA for 22 hours. The Freeloader is also now of light on normal beam and you can rewind George Fisher compatible with the iPhone, iTouch, iPod Classic and all earlier at any time for as much shine-time as you want. visits Asolo iPods. The recharge system gives 30 minutes of ultra (p9) The Supercharger (£20) is a tough solar panel unit that bright light, and 5 hours of regular light. OMM – a The Freeloader attaches to your rucksack, travel bag, bike panniers etc and The Freeplay wind-up radio (£20) packs an AM/ competitor’s recharges mobile will fully power up a Freeloader FM radio, torch and mobile phone charger into view (p10) phones and more in as little as 4 hours in its tough compact casing. As well as a hand Bill Birkett sunshine! crank charger (a 20 second crank will give (p11) The Globetrotter kit (£50) about 20 minutes charge) the radio can also be charged using Mark Seaton includes both the Freeloader an integrated solar charger allowing it to play uninterrupted (p15) and Supercharger supplied with in direct sunlight.

phone and website orders received before noon are delivered free overnight georgeﬁ sher.co.uk 1 t 017687 71801 • weekdays only the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 OUR WINTER CHECKLIST

Headwear Keep wind-chill at bay: Legwear Should be warm, windproof and offer shower protection. make sure your hat covers your Soft shell fabrics are ideal (Marmot Super Hero Pants, £180) or ears (we recommend Lowe Alpine’s waterproof trousers (Rab Bergen, £100). Mountain Cap, £30). Socks In winter socks should Base layer In winter choose insulate as well as protect heavier-weight synthetics or against blisters, so go for a Merino styles like wool or wool/synthetic mix Lowe Alpine Mountain Cap Icebreaker to add (Teko Expedition, £17). warmth. Boots Should give Insulation Choose between ﬂ eece grip, comfort and (Haglofs Bungy, £85), synthetic ankle support. Scarpa Manta insulated garments (TNF Redpoint, Quality leather boots are £100) or down (Patagonia Pullover recommended (Scarpa Manta, £190). £160).

Shell A longer-length garment gives greater protection in winter (Berghaus Aura shell, £200). Berghaus Aura Jacket

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2 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 LAKE DISTRICT HOSTS THE ULTIMATE TRAIL RACE

At the end of July next year the most spectacular long distance trail race that has ever taken place in the UK begins. For the second year running, the Montane Lakeland 100 Ultra Tour of the Lake District (UTLD) encompasses the whole of the Lakeland fells, including 6300m of ascent and run entirely on public bridleways and footpaths. This demanding route starts in Coniston and heads south before completing a clockwise loop taking in the Dunnerdale fells, Eskdale, Wasdale and Buttermere before arriving in Keswick. From here the route heads to Matterdale and continues over to Haweswater before returning via Kentmere, Ambleside and Elterwater to the fi nish at Coniston. Phew! Inspired by the gruelling Ultra Tour of Mont Blanc the tour is just that, a 100 mile circular visiting the most picturesque valleys and dales that radiate out from the central fells. For those who fancy something shorter but still challenging, a 50 mile route will run in tandem incorporating the final six 100 mile checkpoints and taking in 3100m of ascent. The course and entry information can be found at www.lakeland100.com where you can even plot and view the course on Google Earth! And if the UTLD is not enough of a challenge, Montane has also just agreed to become Inspirational terrain for the Montane Lakeland clothing sponsor for the Yukon Arctic Ultra. This is the toughest and coldest 100 Ultra Tour of the Lake District. Photo: Bill Birkett ultra marathon in the world with 100, 300 and 430 mile races, held next February. Montane has chosen to support these events because they very much fit with its own philosophy - the company is owned and run by people with a passion for outdoor performance sports in challenging and inspiring places. Designed in Northumberland by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, Montane is famous for garments that are very light weight and very breathable. WITH ICEBREAKER AT GEORGE FISHER At George Fisher we’re big fans of Montane’s Featherlite Marathon jacket (£40) and Featherlite Pants (£40), which sum up all that’s best about lightweight kit. Whether on valley trails or high on the fells these deliver high breathability, complete windproofness and weather repellency - all in a package that’s smaller and lighter than the average apple! The Featherlite Pants

BODYFIT ACTIVE BASE LAYER SPORT320 INSULATION LAYER LAYER UP AND FEEL THE LOVE Montane’s Featherlite Marathon Jacket

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GEAR ROUND-UP - If you’re planning to hit the slopes this winter, Andy Airey has some suggestions

Ski clothing at George Fisher is unlike so much of what we do. Usually to complete the Spyder set. At these prices you can our clothing range is built around practicality and functionality; it’s understand that we have only committed to very about keeping you comfortable when you’re out and active in the limited stocks! Those of you who know Spyder great outdoors. Ski is the one area where we stray into fashion! will be well aware of its reputation as the skiers’ The styles and colours change every season and instead of carrying brand, and those who don’t will want to come products over a lengthy period, these seasonal pieces come in one delivery in and see what all the fuss is about! Try it on - when they’re gone they’re gone! However even though we have to predict and see what you think. which way Snowsport fashion is going we still underpin our buying decisions Salomon and The North Face provide the on pure function; will the product perform to our (and your) core of our Snowsport offering with a expectations? If not then no matter how fashionable, it selection of styles, some with fi xed insulation won’t get in. and others with detachable liners but all designed with real winter enthusiasts in mind. The North Face Women’s The big news this winter is our introduction of Amore Jacket Spyder clothing. It fi ts our functional bill, being One jacket you have to try is Salomon’s made from performance fabrics, and designed to Superlative (£250), its stretchy waterproof shell is insulated with super have all the features a keen skier needs. Perhaps warm, super soft Primaloft. This combination means luxurious comfort the key to Spyder is its fi t – when you try the the instant it’s on! Men get the Superlative Jacket and Chill Out Stretch Bib jacket and pants on you’ll feel the warmth and (£120) to match in Absolute Brown; women get a Black/Fuchsia jacket and, immediate comfort but you soon realise that the when combined with the Angel Stretch Bib (£120) in Fuchsia, you know that superb design of these products allows you to as well as feeling great you’ll look fantastic! bend and fl ex without any restriction – absolutely The most popular women’s jacket from The North Face ideal for snowsports! Spyder Andermatt Jacket is the down-fi lled Amore (£175). This uses the same As it’s our fi rst season with Spyder we’re only quality down as TNF’s mountain duvets but the taking one style each for men and women. Men get the Andermatt Jacket waterproof HyVent shell is cut to be more sleek (£550) and Boromio Salopette (£300), and women have the Duchess Jacket and stylish. In the Snow White jacket and black (£500) and Ruby Salopette (£300) – plus we’ve also got base layer and hats Freedom Insulated Pants (£120) you’ll look as though you’ve just walked off the set of a James Bond movie! The TNF stand-out style for men is the Explosivo (£260). This insulated HyVent jacket is packed with features – you have a pocket for everything (including your iPod), plenty of Salomon Superlative venting and when the powder skirt is attached Jacket to the Freedom Pants you get the sealed-in protection of a full suit with the fl exibility of a two-piece. What’s more, we’ve not bought it in Black! The Anemone Green jacket tones perfectly with Chute Green pants to ensure you’ll stand out from the crowd. Moving to functional garments, those of you who prefer to ski in a waterproof shell and layer-up accordingly will want to look at our range of Primaloft jackets. These make perfect mid-layers for snow sports, not only because of their thermal effi ciency but because the nylon outer ensures that your waterproof jacket slides over them effortlessly giving you maximum freedom of movement. We have styles from a number of our suppliers, but the benchmark product is the Redpoint Jacket from The North Face (£100), a plain and simple style… it does what it says on the tin! It’s all well and good us adults feeling great about our new outfi ts this winter, but what about the kids? The Dare2Be range combines practical functionality (waterproofness and warmth) with styles, colours and prints that ensure your children look as good as they feel! Jackets are priced between £40 and £50, and salopettes start at £30. The new ski season has some really exciting new brands and styles in store. Come in and see just how we can help you find functional skiwear for all the family that looks great on the slopes!

4 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 THE EYES HAVE IT Lisa Bergerud gets all emotional

Do tears come to your eyes when looking at bands and extra light-enhancing lenses for fl at history and hysteria! the beautiful Lakeland views? Or worse, the snow light or wet Keswick days – look at the And fi nally for a little light relief through the view becomes a watery blur when trying to Evileye (£120) and Elivation (£150). Ever found dark nights you could try reading The Full negotiate a steep descent? Maybe it’s not the nose bridge of your glasses tangling in English: Pedalling through England, Mid-Life just the emotion of the moment - whether your hair? Try the Adilibria (£105) which has an Crisis and Truly Rampant Man-Flu by Mike it’s the cold wind or advancing age, we adjustable nose that’s specifi cally designed not Carden (£8.99). I’m sure you’ll recognise bits of all suffer the same experience from time to catch in your hair. someone that’ll make you laugh, interspersed to time. I know I do, and what helps me is On a slightly different note, a lot of our with an entertaining history of England. Adidas eyewear - can’t go out without it! customers seem to have gone cycling mad. With We’ve got some exciting new Adidas styles that Christmas in mind we’ve found some lovely new are great for winter vision, so light you don’t books. As Leica is to cameras, and Ferrari to notice the frame and perfect for walking or racing automobiles, so Campagnolo is to cycling; skiing, with good wrap-around cover .The beauty designer, developer, manufacturer and supplier of Adidas frames is the adjustability, with arms of the fi nest parts for bicycles ever made. and nose bridges that fi ne-tune to fi t perfectly. Campagnolo: 75 Years of Cycling Passion (£27.50) Some have additional goggle straps, sweat covers the company history up to today’s latest carbon fi bre technology, and will be enjoyed by lovers of the sport and connoisseurs of the bicycle itself. For everyone who’s hooked on the Tour de France each July, The Tour Is Won on the Alpe (£12.95) sees veteran journalist Jean-Paul Vespini bring the excitement, the magic, the madness and the glory of the Alpe d’Huez - as well as the Tour itself - to magnifi cent life. The chapters cover the ascents, the battles and the Adidas Elivation ClimaCool many legendary athletes that have created Campagnolo: 75 Years of Cycling Passion

Lead. Don’t follow.

Wherever you’re going, the chances The Temperance Jacket is our lightest 3 are Berghaus has been there and we Layer GORE-TEX® PRO SHELL and features understand just what you need. tried and tested innovations including; our Inspired by and designed with input full volume and helmet compatible Raptor from our sponsored athletes we hood, core venting to help regulate your know what’s important. temperature, and articulated sleeves for optimum movement whilst climbing.

BERGHAUS and are registered trade marks of Berghaus Limited. ©Berghaus Limited 2008. GORE-TEX® GORE® and PACLITE® are registered trade marks of W.L. Gore and Associates www.berghaus.com

5 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65

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6 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65

Salomon X-Wing 8 with 711D-80 WINTER FUN binding Our hardware expert John Owens looks at winter toys

Let’s be honest, half the fun with ski holidays This year the big story in skiing is protection and is thinking about the equipment to take with the rapidly growing trend for helmets to become us (or is it just me…). For this year’s ski range an essential piece of kit for the slopes. Whether we have Salomon, which has produced a strong you are a fall line skier or happy cruiser your head Giro Fuse range including probably the most interesting is a vulnerable area that needs protection. This helmet development in hardware; the new Falcon pro season our range gives you an array of options to footwear custom shell ski boot (£325). As the name get a comfortable fi t, refl ecting the adage that ‘the like the Scarpa Charmoz or the suggests, the outer shell has heat mouldable safest helmet is the one you wear’. So, our goal new Manta GSB for those going in areas so you can have a high-performance is to help you fi nd the helmet you want to reach search of snow. For more general fell boot without any foot pain - ideal if you have for each morning and forget about until the end walking and easier paths we have less than perfect feet. of the day. Our range includes models from World the Kahtoola KTS fl exible crampon Cup-winning brand Head, and helmet specialist New for us are HEAD skis and boots which range (£90) already popular for use Giro including their Fuse Titanium (£125) and junior include some really interesting with most types of footwear if used models. So whether you are new or old to the models like the Great One appropriately. Like all equipment we sport, or just know somebody who really should (£440) and Monster 82, true sell, skill does not come included in wear one, pop along for a try and our staff can all-mountain skis. For the speed the box so be realistic about your guide you through the fi tting process. demons amongst you try HEAD’s goals and ability and we will help you Supershape Magnum (£535) choose the best combination. developed from the world Snow on the hills The next product is new to the UK cup-winning Supershape Many of us are already down on our knees praying but had a great reception in the US models. We also have to the gods of snow not to forget us this winter. last season and may be of value to several of Salomon’s However let’s be realistic; times have changed skiers and walkers alike. If the ski Salomon Falcon pro custom boot brilliant skis including since we could ski around Blencathra on snow resort you go to has scenic walks but slippery the all-mountain X-Wing rather than mud, and the same is true in the Alps paths or the fells have unexpected ice or old snow, 8 with the 711D-80 binding (£325 package) giving as well as North Wales and Scotland. To adapt to then Micro Spikes (£40) from Kahtoola are worth comfort, stability and manoeuvrability. these changing conditions manufacturers have looking at. Basically these are snow chains for HEAD’s ski boot line also offers something different evolved the design of ice axes (more on this in your feet with the added bite of six 3/8th inch in that their models offer performance but a the next issue) and crampons like Grivel’s Air Tech teeth in among the chain links. Easily pulled on any roomier fi t, useful for many of our customers. Our (£95) model which has 12 points but generally shoe and held by a high-quality rubber rand, these other ski boot ‘new boy’ is Nordica with its Speed shorter than normal, enabling easier movement ingenious bits of kit fi t in the palm of your hand Machine 8 model, looking set to be bestsellers in over mixed ground where you want more stability. and you wouldn’t think twice about throwing them both men’s and women’s fi t - try some on and find Likewise boots used in these conditions have in your rucsac just in case. Whatever you plan to out why. evolved into lighter and relatively more nimble do, don’t have nightmares this winter, be safe! SKI HARDWARE MADE EASY!

The ski enthusiasts amongst evening with Robbie Young from experience spread between our conditions and if you don’t, then you will have noticed that we Salomon and asked for volunteers sales advisors and ski technicians. remember that a bad day’s skiing don’t have ski hardware in the to attend. Robbie is one of the is always better than a good day Wherever you’re going over the basement this season – we’ve most experienced guys in the at work! winter we hope you fi nd great found space for it within our UK ski trade and his training was Snowsport clothing on the fi rst designed as a broad introduction fl oor. Our thinking was that to ski hardware. We expected 6 to this would better display both 8 staff, however we were surprised the hardware and soft goods, when over 20 of our colleagues presenting a more coherent came forward. range overall… it’s up to you to The evening was a great success decide! Let us know what you and as a result we now have a think. large group who have a greater As usual we have our full understanding of how best to link complement of trained ski your needs to the appropriate technicians, however in order to hardware. If you’re thinking ensure we had more people who about buying skis or ski boots, were comfortable to talk about come in and talk to us. We have skis and ski boots we arranged an a huge range of knowledge and Robbie Young from Salomon talks to George Fisher staff about ski hardware

7 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65

Comfort Engineering at its best.

Unlike air backs from other Our new AirZone rucksacks have been manufacturers, the AirZone design developed to give you the coolest possible follows the curve of your back. carry. Forget the usual sweaty back The air space therefore remains syndrome. AirZone features a minimalist, constant, giving better ventilation, lightweight, highly breathable back and carrying stability is improved. harness that allows air to circulate The Adaptive Fit hip belt gives a perfect fit for everyone, no across your back whilst delivering matter their body shape Whatever the load being carried supreme carrying comfort. your pack will feel as comfortable as possible. Comfort Engineering is a philosophy that drives all For more information contact Lowe Alpine packs. Lowe Alpine on 01539 740 840 email [email protected]

The Centro Adjust system is www.lowealpine.com simple, lightweight yet strong

8 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 GEORGE FISHER VISITS ASOLO

Wendy Knox and Christine Bland were invited to join a group of eight Wendy and Christine were away for three very busy days including 6 staff from outdoor shops visiting the Asolo footwear factories, fl ights, and were entertained with typical Romanian food (including some initially fl ying into in the Treviso area in northern Italy. Asolo is very strong drink!). All in all, they learned a lot from what was a very part of a group of Italian-owned companies that now includes Lowe enjoyable trip. Alpine, so they also took the opportunity to visit the Lowe Alpine offi ces to look around their Research & Development department. Then it was on to the nearby factory where Asolo’s technical mountain boots are made, and their skilled staff work on future Asolo boot designs. The next day the group took two fl ights onwards to Romania to visit another Asolo factory where the majority of trekking boots are made. Both Wendy and Christine report that the factory was incredibly organised and immaculately clean. The boots are constructed on a production line staffed by workers with specifi c jobs, either cutting or sewing. Right through production the quality control is excellent with work checked very frequently. Every single GORE-TEX boot liner is tested to make sure there are no leaks, which is a higher level of QC than GORE-TEX themselves specify. Christine comments that with such a high standard of workmanship and control, you cannot imagine anything coming out of the Asolo factories that won’t be perfect in every way. Christine inspects the Asolo factory WINTER TRAINING AT GLENMORE LODGE

Norman and Ann Prestwell, Chris Knox and Sarah Austin from George an t-Sneachda, with frozen rain hammering down, the Gore-tex Pro Shell Fisher travelled to Scotland for a winter training event in mid- jacket and 3 layer Performance Shell over-trousers worked fantastically November, to test new gear and learn winter mountaineering skills well. along with colleagues from Tiso, our parent company. Evening sessions included yet more product training from Lyon The event was held at Glenmore Lodge, Scotland’s national outdoor Equipment, Berghaus and WL Gore. It was a great trip and proved that training centre, located in the heart of the Cairngorm National Park. The with good preparation and the right equipment, it is possible to go out in ﬁ rst evening session outlined plans for the following three days and challenging conditions, stay warm and enjoy it. products from the main sponsor, Berghaus, were handed out to test. Our own gear was also checked to ensure they were prepared for whatever Cairngorm could throw at them. Five groups set out on day 1, each with a Glenmore guide, from Coire Cas car park and took fairly low level routes (70mph winds predicted!). The groups were up against the elements including a minus-16 degree wind chill. All groups were persistently buffeted, pushed around and blown over like skittles! (Sarah was blown over 10 times – hilarious!) All staff were wearing a good winter layering system and a Berghaus Gore-Tex Pro Shell jacket, which worked extremely well. The hood system was well thought out, and a great ﬁ t. On day 2, lighter wind made it possible for the groups to go higher above the snow line. It was snowing with occasional blizzard conditions, and helmets and ice axes were used – Sarah disappearing down huge snow covered gaps! (there’s a theme developing here). Norman’s group worked on some navigation skills using Silva compass and OS maps – pacing, timing and contours were used to get around the mountain. Norman also used his Suunto watch altimeter to great effect. Heading up into Coire A rare moment standing upright in the wind

9 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 OMM REPORT Happiness is a set of dry underwear… A competitors’ view Photo: Peter Bascombe

In October 2008 staff member Chris Knox and running partner Mel instructions came.” Hart took part in the Original Mountain Marathon (OMM) starting So you weren’t lost but just from Seathwaite in Borrowdale along with a couple of thousand other stranded then? athletes. Little did any of them realise what national and international “Not even stranded really as news would be generated by an otherwise minority interest sporting we were where we’d intended event, before they’d even reached the overnight camp. to be, had a barn in which we Formally known as the Karrimor International Mountain Marathon (KIMM) this could eat, drink and sleep, we two-day mountain navigation event has been run annually since 1968 and still had the tent we could pitch, always over the last weekend of October. Using a different location each year or we could get back to the chosen mostly for the quality and diffi culty of the terrain, the exact venue camper van on the other side is kept secret until about a month beforehand so that competitors cannot of the (Honister) pass.” gain any unfair advantage by looking over the area prior to the event. It is a Did you get any other instructions? true test of mountain craft (navigation, preparation and equipment skills) for “Yes, we’d gone in the barn, changed base layers, put extra clothing on pairs of runners in a variety of classes from Elite through to Short score. All top, made a meal and hot drink, then we were told we could walk back to competitors are vetted for proof of their mountain experience including fell the event centre and check in or stay put. Jen (one of the organisers) had running, orienteering, hill walking and mountaineering. arranged free hot meals for those that went back over, so quite a few of us The OMM generally has challenging weather to contend with and this year set off, only to be turned back as someone had closed the road at Honister was no exception, Chris takes up the story; “We’d seen the forecast and top. On to plan ‘B’, we chose to pitch tent above the flooded campsite, had a checked to make sure it (the OMM) was still on – it was, so we both modifi ed very blustery night’s rest, then set off after breakfast to walk back.” our clothing and food choice in preparation for a rough weekend. I went for Bearing in mind the bad weather forecast and the subsequent demand heavier duty waterproofs and an extra spare base layer, Mel did likewise and on emergency services, should the event have even started? we packed an extra two meals to help overnight recovery.” “Yes, the event organisers knew who they had competing, the competitors So you were well prepared? knew what they had entered and that the weather could turn to extreme “I think so, we’d dropped down from the ‘B’ to the ‘C’ course to suit our conditions. That’s why some chose not to start, and many others decided to current levels of fi tness and we were confi dent our preparation was retire soon after the start. That’s the whole point; it’s supposed to be a self- thorough.” supported adventure where you and your partner decide how much you can do within the normal rules of mountain safety. Hindsight is a wonderful thing How did the day go? and I’m unclear as to who called out which services where, or who originated “We had a late start, the wind and rain that the early starters missed was the subsequent media hype, but it seems to have been others getting in our faces from leaving the van so we rapidly joined the back of a group involved outside of the organisation that created a drama out of a situation.” huddled behind a wall to wait for our start. Everyone chattered excitedly as we knew this was going to be a challenge! We got the map and the Will you do any more of these events? information that the bad weather courses had been further shortened and “So long as I stay fi t and healthy and someone will still run with me, set off walking, plotting our route on the move. Apart from one parallel absolutely. I think we’ve signed up for the Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon navigation error, we were going very well and taking in the spectacular (LAMM) next year already! Apart from coming through a severe personal test stormy show that nature was displaying so vividly. After negotiating all of the worst conditions for a whole day that I’ve ever raced in, its got to be the other checkpoints we were soon racing down to the overnight camp at the best time to see just how good or bad your choice of equipment is - how Gatesgarth and really looking forward to our meal and hot drinks. However else can you really learn? A lot of the kit we used is sold in George Fisher, so as we checked in, the marshal informed us that the event was off due to I’ve improved my practical view on a how a variety of products perform in the worsening conditions and we could shelter in the barn until further extreme weather and can pass this on to customers in the shop.”

AVALANCHE Des Oliver ponders the perils of snow slides

The word itself can have numerous meanings, but I’m using it in the large avalanche triggered by exceptionally heavy snowfalls (2m in a couple classic sense – the mountain snow avalanche. Immediately the Alps of days), crossed the River Arve and crashed into the opposite valley side, springs to mind. At one time large areas in Alpine regions would demolishing 17 chalets in the hamlet of Le Tour above Chamonix. Being the become completely isolated in winter due to avalanches from high height of the ski season, ten people were killed and ﬁve more were badly mountain sides, this can still occur but these days alpine villages use injured. It was the worst avalanche disaster in the valley in the twentieth access roads roofed over to protect them. century. In ski resorts the authorities go to even greater lengths to protect against There are various suggestions on how to react if caught in an avalanche, avalanches. The steepest slopes have large metal barriers to hold back the including a ‘swimming’ action, but the best advice is to know when and how snow from slipping and occasionally ski pistes are closed until explosive avalanches are caused so you can steer clear of them. I should emphasise charges remove the danger from loaded slopes above. However disasters that it is extremely unlikely to happen as long as you conﬁ ne yourself to can still happen – the alpine village of Galtur in the Austrian Tyrol was skiing on prepared pistes. Anyone going off piste, including ski mountaineers partly buried in an enormous avalanche a few years ago, and in 1999 a should carry specialist gear such as transceivers and probes.

10 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 AN ICONIC LANDSCAPE Bill Birkett savours November in Langdale

From many viewpoints - particularly over the head of Windermere and locations along the Great Langdale Valley - the Langdale Pikes present an iconic mountain skyline. The reclining lion profi le of Pavey Ark (the back) and Harrison Stickle (its head) and Thorn Crag (a paw) present an evocative and thrilling sight to anyone who loves the wild beauty of mountains. Of course from the head of the Blea Tarn Pass it’s the cone of Pike O’Stickle that proves to be the most eye-catching, its striking independence emphasised by the ‘Great Stone Shoot’ which runs by its side almost to the valley fl oor and by Gimmer The Langdale Pikes viewed from The Band - for thousands of years the centre of Stone Axe manufacture to Crag, the magnifi cent vertical sweep of clean the extent that archeologists reckon that most of the material forming the Great Stone Shoot is made from rhyolite, falling beneath Loft Crag. Within its waste chippings produced during the production of stone axes. own scale it’s a skyline unsurpassed in form and grace. summit. This is the route I recommend in LAN 5 Walkers should also avoid East (or Easy) Gully of Complete Lakeland Fells which continues to which climbs to the right of Jack’s Rake. It’s rather In reality too it proves to be a wonderful mountain include nine tops in all. nastily eroded at the bottom with some sizeable playground with many fi ne walks and climbs bits of scree ready to run on touch and at the top which offer not only a sublime visual experience Above the tarn the great 450ft South East Face the way out over large jammed blocks is polished but, should you wish to fi nd it, both challenge dominates the scene. For adventurous walkers and awkward. For rock climbers of course the and adventure a-plenty. Certainly throughout my with a head for heights the distinct diagonal fault wonderfully rough, pocketed, igneous rock of life in the Langdales I’ve been up and down these line of Jack’s Rake rising from bottom right to top Pavey Ark is amongst the best in the Lake District. fells countless times - though just recently due to left, is a compelling scramble. Although extremely There is a whole range of beautiful routes ranging running photography courses, plus photographic popular it should not be underestimated. The from the Crescent Climb/Gwynne’s Chimney work to illustrate a new series of guidebooks, I’ve exposure is great, the rock now highly polished combination climbed in the 1880s, through been amongst the Pikes even more frequently and loose stones abound. And if Dave Birkett is to 1960s classics such as the impeccable Golden than usual. be believed (he is) then you should always keep an eye open for sheep plummeting from the heights Slipper and Astra both climbed by the Langdale It never ceases to amaze me the almost infi nite above having strayed into irreversible positions on master Allan Austin, followed by Rob Matheson’s variety of ways to climb these fells. Even if you the luxuriously vegetated bilberry ledges which tremendous Cruel Sister and latterly Dave follow the regular route directly by Stickle Ghyll to litter the face. Although the ‘Long Groove’ - the Birkett’s Impact Day. Stickle Tarn, there are still many courses to choose second groove which follows a short introductory from once the tarn is reached. A quick dash up the opening - could be considered to be the most western side of the tarn leads pretty well directly diffi cult section I always feel that the bad step to the top of Harrison Stickle - at 2,288ft (697m) leaving the second terrace is potentially the most it’s the highest of the Pikes. A circumnavigation serious. A slip from the awkward polished step east leads around and over Bright Beck to a into the corner groove here would result, after a path climbing the east shoulder of Pavey Ark short slide down steep grass, in a freefall of over (Wainwright’s ‘North Rake’) to its rocky knoll An ancient stone axe head found at the Langdale Pikes 200ft.

Avalanches in the UK are relatively rare, and usually triggered by walkers or climbers. There have been occasions of avalanches in the Lake District, but they are more common in the Scottish Highlands. I recall being shown an avalanche in the Cairngorms, some of the lumps of snow (avalanche debris) were as big as a car but the people caught in the snow slide got away with bruising – very lucky! Note: in the autumn issue of Update, there were two errors - O.G. Jones was not killed in the First World War he died from a fall on the Dent Blanche in 1899. I had my 80th birthday this year. (oops, sorry Des – Ed)

11 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 GEORGE FISHER GAINS ENVIRONMENTAL AWARD

As a company working in the outdoor business we have always been aware of environmental impact and how we should aim to improve our sustainable management. Now we have taken the ﬁ rst steps towards giving a structure to our efforts, achieved through the Cumbria Rural Enterprise Agency. Their Cumbria Business Environment Network (CBEN) recently audited George Fisher against stringent criteria and awarded us Bronze for work we have done including waste re-use and recycling and ethical sourcing of bags. We’re looking forward to working with CBEN in the future to achieve the silver award! Just a quick ‘well done’ to Rachel Freer for the work she’s already done on our environmental policy, and also to our supplier Lyon Equipment (Petzl, La Sportiva etc) who picked up a Gold Award at the same ceremony. Rachel Freer accepts George Fisher’s Bronze Award HELP FIX A FELL FOR CHRISTMAS!

What to get the keen walker for Christmas? This is where the work of the Fix the Fells Go to www.fi xthefells.co.uk and click ‘Donate now’ A fl eece jacket? Or maybe a new pair of partnership comes to the rescue, working to fi nd out more. boots? All good ideas - but there’s something together to prevent further erosion of upland Did you know? If you buy one of George Fisher’s else you can buy for the walker who has paths. Donations play a big part in enabling re-usable jute bags we make a contribution to Fix everything… How about a gift certifi cate to essential repairs to be carried out on the paths. the Fells. restore a Lake District path? The partnership is run by the Lake District National Park Authority, The National Trust and A gift of £10 will pay for a metre of path-side Natural England and is further supported by vegetation, or £25 will pay to get stone moved Friends of the Lake District, The Tourism and to site. And if it’s a very generous gift, £250 will Conservation Partnership and the Heritage cover specialised drainage work, or even £600 for Lottery Fund. an hour’s use of a helicopter to fl y stone to high places. For every pound donated the Heritage Fix the Fells project adviser Richard Fox said: Lottery Fund will triple it, so a £10 gift certifi cate “Donations can be made online where an instant is actually worth £30 of TLC for the paths you certifi cate can be printed out with a personalised love. message, showing how the money will help. Buying presents can be a nightmare, so we The Lake District’s high paths are world renowned thought up a novel way of easing the pressure and each year 20 million feet trample over them. and helping preserve the stunning landscape into Excessive wear and tear along with high levels of the bargain. It’s a great way for walkers to give rainfall has taken its toll, leaving ugly scars and something back.” severe erosion. Fix The Fells restored path above Langdale

ABRAHAM’S TEA ROOM Christmas cake recipe

When it’s dark and lashing it down INGREDIENTS METHOD outside you want somewhere to 350g plain fl our Heat oven to 150 degrees (gas mark retreat to and relax for a while. 1 tsp mixed spice 2) and grease and line a 23cm round In the Abraham’s Tea Room we’re 100g ground almonds or 20.5cm square tin. Sieve together offering plenty of ‘winter warmers’ 4 medium eggs the fl our, spice and ground almonds. with good, locally-sourced 150 ml brandy Beat eggs with brandy. Cream butter wholesome food. And given that 225g butter and sugar, stir in the fl our mixture it’s that time of year, why not try 225g soft brown sugar and egg mixture alternately a little at 225g each currants, raisins, sultanas a time. Add fruit, mix thoroughly and our fabulous Christmas cake? 100g each glace cherries (halved) pour into prepared tin. Wrap brown and mixed peel (fi nely chopped) paper around outside of tin and bake for around 3.5 to 4 hours.

12 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 WHAT A WAY TO CELEBRATE YOUR 65TH BIRTHDAY! By Update reader Edwin Coope

On 17/18 May this year Paul Murray, a member of the Rucksack Club and Horwich RMI Harriers and a former veteran fell-running champion, traversed the 65 highest summits in the Lake District on a continuous end-to-end route. He started at Walna Scar Road end (Duddon) and ﬁ nished at Hartsop (Patterdale) 46hrs 17 minutes later. The total distance was approximately 150 kilometres (93 miles) involving total ascent in the region of 11,000m (36,000 feet) and Paul’s total rest/sleep time (4 hrs 26 minutes) was included in his overall time. His approach was to walk all the up-hills and, where possible, to run the rest – lungs and legs permitting! The summits climbed are the 65 highest in the Lake District as listed by John and Anne Nuttall in their book ‘The Mountains of England and Wales, Volume 3: England’. After careful consideration of which summits should be included, the Nuttalls adopted “any summit of 2,000ft or more which rises above its surroundings on all sides by at least 50ft” and, like Sir Hugh Munro’s tables of the 3,000ft mountains of Scotland, one summit requiring climbing skills is included – Pillar Rock. This was probably the most demanding of Paul’s 65 Adam Clark Sage Cattabriga-Alosa. Alta, UT.Photo: summits. The lowest summit was Sail (773m/2536ft) which doubles-up as the 50th highest ‘Wainwright’. However, only 49 Wainwrights qualify for inclusion within the 65 because Watson’s Dodd, the 41st highest ‘Wainwright’, does not rise 50ft above its surroundings. It follows that 16 of Paul’s summits are not listed as Wainwrights but these include such well-known tops as Ill Crag and Broad Crag, both 3,000 footers, and of course Pillar Rock. Paul was in fact aged 66 when he embarked on his remarkable traverse during which he was supported on the hill by members of the Rucksack Club and of Horwich RMI Harriers and, at road crossings, by his wife Margaret. He ascended Symonds Knott/Scafell via Mickledore and Broad Stand and descended by the same route, and climbed Pillar Rock by the Slab and Notch route.

The North Face® Snowsports collection now available at George Fisher or at www.thenorthface.com/eu

Paul (L) on Cofa Pike en route from St. Sunday Crag to Fairﬁ eld, with Andy White. Photo: Mary White

13 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 CLIMBERS IN NUMBER 10

If you were passing Downing Street in early October, you’d have Mountaineering is increasing in popularity but receives relatively low seen a strange scene: well-known names from British climbing level of fi nancial support from government in comparison to other and mountaineering (from Leo Houlding and Ben Moon to Chris sports. The BMC is currently awaiting the decision of an application for Bonington and Derek Walker) all squeezed into their smartest funding from Sport England, which allocates government funding for suits, waiting politely to go through the famous door of Number sport at a community level, at a time when funding for many sports 10. has been cut back in the run-up to the Olympics. They had all been invited to a Downing Street reception to celebrate British Mountaineering. These receptions usually only happen for teams returning from international successes such as World Cups, showing just how far mountaineering has come in being recognised within Government. The reception was held for the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) at the invitation of the Prime Minister, in part due to his own interest in hill walking. However on the night, Gordon Brown found he had another mountain to climb - sorting out the economy – and so Sports Minister Gerry Sutcliffe stepped into his boots. There were speeches from BMC President Charles Clark, Leo Houlding and the Sports Minister. Charles and Leo conveyed what people can achieve through mountain-related activities and how it’s a lifelong affi nity which people of all ages enjoy. The Sports Minister acknowledged the role climbing, hill walking and plays in contributing to a fi t nation and said that mountaineering is a sport Government is BMC President Charles Clark addresses the multitude. Photo: Richard Lewis / 10 interested in working with. Downing Street

750, CHEMIN DES GLIERES, CHAMONIX, MONT BLANC 74400 FRANCE

telephone +33 (0)4 50 53 63 77. [email protected]

G_fkfYp;\iip9iXYYj International Federation of Mountiain Guides Associations

14 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 MOUNTAIN RESCUE IN THE ALPS From our man in Chamonix, mountain guide Mark Seaton

The alpine regions of Europe are spread over various countries, and If you ever need help, you should use the internationally recognised signal each country organises its mountain rescue slightly differently. The which is to raise your arms to form a V above your head. Conversely if main difference between France and the other alpine countries is that you’re OK but a helicopter is showing undue interest in you, then you should mountain rescue is free in France; but not medical expenses nor in the give the signal of one arm above your head forming half a V. This signal is pisted skiing areas. Otherwise there is a certain commonality between particularly important so that the pilot can eliminate you from any search he the rescue services. might be undertaking. The mountain rescue teams which operate in the major alpine resorts are To call the mountain rescue in any country in Europe you contact the Police. always very busy. For example in Chamonix, the ‘capital of alpinism’, the Each country has its equivalent 999 service and what is useful to know is that team may be called out as many as seven times per day at the height of the the 999 service throughout Europe including Britain can now be contacted summer season. Due to its demanding workload it is necessarily structured by dialling 112. Alternatively you can fi nd the local mountain rescue number very differently to mountain rescue teams that operate in the UK. for a particular area in the phone book, or in the front of the mountaineering guidebook, and pre-programme it into your phone. It is a good idea to input In Britain volunteers run the teams. They do a magnifi cent job yet they are the full international code because you could be standing in one country and entirely dependent on charitable donations and the total dedication of the calling another without realising! team members. They have no government funding yet are expected to deal with the massive increase in people visiting the British hills, which result in more rescues each year. This situation contrasts sharply with the Alps where professionals run the rescue service, normally under the Police organisation. They are funded by local council or tourist tax. In Chamonix there is a dedicated mountain rescue team run by the ‘Peloton Gendarmerie de Haute Montagne’, known as the PGHM. Although policemen, they all hold (or are working towards) the Diploma of High Mountain Guiding. They are part of the Compagnies Republicaines de Securitie, otherwise known as the CRS and are actually part of the army being responsible to the Ministry of Defence. In other parts of France they might act as coastguards. It is dangerous work; on average one member of the 50-strong Chamonix team is killed every year. All mountain rescue teams in the Alps use helicopters a great deal. This differs from British teams who cannot rely on helicopter cover. British rescue teams rely on the army, navy or RAF having a helicopter available, rather than operating their own. In Britain if the helicopter has something ‘more important’ to do then the British mountain rescue teams have to do without and stretcher the casualty to the nearest road. Manhandling a stretcher requires a vast amount of team members - to carry one stretcher one hour, requires at least three teams of eight working in rotation. It is not diffi cult to see that an accident with multiple casualties such as an avalanche can stretch the teams’ resources to its limit. Alpine rescue services have a dedicated helicopter service. The most popular helicopter was the Alouette, now being replaced by the Eurocopter. These helicopters are specially built to fl y at very high altitudes (one actually touched down on the summit of Everest). They are ideal for mountain rescue work being powerful and incredibly manoeuvrable. Normally they are either red (Security Civil) or dark blue (Gendarmerie). These helicopters contrast sharply with the types that are available to British rescue teams, namely the Sea King. This is a big, cumbersome machine and as its name suggests is designed for fl ying over vast expanses of water, not mountain rescue work. Some UK teams have access to regional Air Ambulances but these helicopters cannot winch casualties. Naturally this dependence on helicopters in the Alps means that your chances of getting rescued in bad weather are massively reduced because the helicopters cannot fl y. Often alpine rescue teams cannot mount a foot rescue because of the distances and complicated ground such as glaciers A climber being ‘long lined’ off the Eiger North Face. Long lining means dangling that have to be covered. Instead you will often see helicopters buzzing the a cable under the helicopter without winching. These can be a staggering 800 mountain face checking where climbers are just before a storm. After the metres long. storm they will check again.

15 the Update WINTER 2008 - ISSUE 65 KESWICK TRIATHLON IS A RECORD SELLOUT

Keswick Triathlon sponsored by Falke, involves a 750m swim in Derwentwater, a 35km bike ride and a 10km run. Cheryl Frost, Festival Co-ordinator and ladies winner of last year’s triathlon, said: “The Keswick Tri is an amazing start to the season. The bike route is fast and full of surprises but the run is my personal favourite with its great scenery. The aim is to make the triathlon accessible to anyone, there’s a great atmosphere and tons of support from the locals.” Keswick’s third Mountain Festival is set to be the best yet with two headline sponsors agreeing to support the ﬁ ve day event; Cockermouth-based Jennings Brewery and Ordnance Survey. The dates you need for your diary are 13-17 May 2009 – the event promises to be jam packed with every conceivable outdoor activity and coupled with an impressive line-up of inspirational speakers. Details at www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk

The bike leg in the 2008 Triathlon. Photo: Steve Razzetti All 300 places for Keswick Mountain Festival’s Triathlon have been snapped up in record time. The race organisers are astonished that the event – on Saturday 16 May 2009 - ﬁ lled up within a week of entries opening on line. And those who were hoping to bag a place on the reserve list will be disappointed to hear the waiting list is also full! Rob Wilkins, Race Director said: “I organise six triathlons across Britain every year and co-ordinate the entries for many more and I have never seen one ﬁll up this fast. It is remarkable to see both the 300 entries and the reserve list full when we are so far ahead of the event. We obviously have got something right!” Swimmers enter the water. Photo: Steve Razzetti