We set off in optimistic mood from Mallaig,
Watching seals play in the harbour as we boarded our high speed rig looking forward to two days of sunshine climbing. First stop was Rhum where we adorned suitable attire- in most cases( Marky I still need my trousers back !)and prepared to climb Askival the first of the corbetts and the biggest climb of the 4. Around 30 seconds after we left base camp the heavens opened and as we waited for the weather to change we climbed to the top before the rain abated – crossing narrow ledges , spotting deer grazing beneath us and reaching our peak to be joined by the mist all around us.
The walk back was drier and quicker as the set time for dinner and a few well earned beers approached spurring us onwards.
Refreshed and recharged our bodies boosted by a hearty breakfast and handfuls of pain killers we put on our still wet boots and set of for day 2. First stop was cana , a tiny settlement of 13 souls , 1 school and a hill- the walk was difficult only for the fact that we kept sinking into the marsh with each step but the climb to the summit saw us greeted by 2 pairs of golden eagles circling above our heads.
2 down and then onto Muck – much more pleasant and for the first time we encountered a road for the easiest of the four peaks, time was running out though so we pressed on to the summit the descent was again quicker all of us motivated by the fact that the harbour had a café – a burger and beer awaited those who made it down quickest before the rest of us were taken from the tea room by our guides determined that we complete the last peak in day light.
The last another corbett this time on Eigg a monstrous peak visible for miles around and the last challenge for our weary legs- we pressed on driven by the thought of achieving our aim and completing the task for the memory of our dear friend.
The sense of achievement and relief at the top match only by the fear of falling of the narrow ledge was present amongst all of us. As we walked down the hill to return home tired , emotional and proud of each of us who walked through our own fears and despite our physical aliements achieved what we set out to do, raise money for the fund. A toast to all of you dear friends you made me proud!
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