Meet Report

8th to 10th February 2019 - Blackrock Cottage, Glencoe

Due to the inspiring Saturday weather forecast of 80mph winds, persistent rain and 20%
chance of cloud-free Munros only 6 participants decided to make their way to Blackrock
Cottage on Friday night. The hut belonging to the Ladies Scottish Climbing Club bravely
withstood the strong and howling winds, even though some of the wall panels were literally
moving.
On Saturday, only Chris Wo was braving the elements and climbed Beinn a'Chrulaiste and
walked all the way to Kinlochleven where he met up with Keith, Duncan, Ben, Claire and
myself who spent the day climbing at the Ice Factor.
Saturday evening saw the arrival of the remaining 4 EMC members, which was celebrated
with a sausage and marshmallow sizzle over the coal fire in the hut.
On Sunday morning all wind had died down, but ice rain had covered cars and roads. Claire
demonstrated her unhuman strength by tearing off a door handle of her car. Blackrock
Cottage was surrounded by tripod men taking photos of the picturesque hut with Buachaille
Etive Mor in the background, spoiled by us entering and exiting the hut as we prepared for
departure.
Rebecca went off on a solo adventure on Binnein Beag, her last Munro it this area.
Chris Wo, Claire and myself summited Beinn Fhionnlaidh. An attempted link-up with Sgor na
h-Ulaidh unfortunately didn't work out, as the steep north-east ridge (“interesting in
summer” according to the guide book) turned properly vertical about 100m before reaching
the bealach, forcing us to turn around.
Tim, Ben, Keith, Duncan, Ned and Clare had a stunning day climbing with rope, ice axe and
crampon action on Sron na Lairig and also summited Stob Coire Sgreamhach.

Martha