Everyone arrived safely and congregated in the bar at Loch Insh Water sports Centre on Friday evening. Unfortunately, a little mix up with coms, meant that Chris spent a “silent night” on sofa cushions in the common room - avoiding loud zzzZZ in the room shared with myself, Tim, and Allan.
On Saturday, after a delayed breakfast for some, three groups headed out. Chris, Ali G and myself, headed over western Drumochter hills of Sgairneach Mhor and Beinn Udlamain enjoying fine views of the Monadhliath, and Cairngorms where a big group headed off across the plateau. The short days ensured folk were back in time to relax in the bar in good time for the Annual Dinner.
El Pres, Alan gave a comprehensive summary of the year’s highlights, including his favourite meet at Strawberry Cottage. His speech concluded with the inaugural presentation of Martin’s Award to member(s) who simple had “a Good Day out on the hill”. The award, a 3D map of the hills around Balquhidder (one of Martin’s favourite spots), was presented to Rebecca and Chris for their 11 hour(ish) walk to Sgurr Nan Ceathremanan and adjoining hills. It may have not been the longest day, but still big hills in a remote setting.
Many thanks to Bertie, the maitre’d at Loch Insh Boathouse Restaurant, who looked after us very well.
With breakfast available a little sooner on Sunday, the earlier rises (Emma, Kate, Allan and Fiona C) were away to Sow of Badenoch. After a more leisurely breakfast (some having two servings – well I did need some energy to finish off a Tender), the Renvilles, Kenny, Alison and Claire H headed into the Monadhliath for an exciting Munro top!
Chris, Claire and Ged headed out west to the Easains, Pauline and Dave stopped off to wonder across Creag Dubh. Tim picked the fairly remote Ben Vuirich, and frozen peat bogs helped his swift traverse by reaching the top in 3 hours and returning before dark! Sara and Peter generally thought the day would include lots of coffee and some cycling.
Overall, everyone had a great weekend.
Paul
P.s posted en route to Lerwick
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