Learn to Lead Weekend

Over the weekend I have been down in North Wales running a learn to lead course for James and Alex.  The aim was to use the mountain crags in the Ogwen valley, but the weather was not kind to us.  We did however, get a tan on Holyhead mountain over the 2 days.

Alex on Hat VDiff

James on Hat VDiff

James on Hat VDiff

During the 1st day we covered placing and grading runners (wires and hexes), then moved on to use these to construct a belay.  Once we were happy with this, the step to leading was not to big.  Both James and Alex already lead indoors, so we me next to them on a rope, and climbing with a few grades in hand, we could all focus and enjoy the learning experience.  Both did extremely well leading 2 pitches on VD each, one in a multi pitch context.

James focused on Black Owen VDiff

Alex high on Slippers VDiff

James backing up his cam on Tempest S 4a*

After an attempt to go into Idwal, we where back at Holyhead in the sunshine to escape the rain.  Again this worked out very well, with both Alex and James leading some solid VDiffs which were 35m in length.  They were both keen to try something a little harder on the second. so they followed me up the classic VS 4c*** Black and Tan.  To finish the day off, James put in a top effort to lead Tempest Severe 4a* with a little support from me.  this rounded off the weekend very well.

Alex enjoying the view from the top of Holyhead mountain