Climbers Reach The Roof Of The Dolomites

All 26 participants who took part on our recent climbing expedition to the Alps organised by Jim Finn are now safely back in Ireland. The objective was an ascent of Marmolada the highest in the Dolomite Mountains. This was accomplished by 14 of Mid-Tipp Hillwalker’s fittest climbers who ploughed up through snow fields and glaciers, while using threee ropes, to finally reach the mountain summit in style.

Those who made it to the summit were Dan Condren, Eoin Wolohan, Bridget Browne, Winnie Flynn, Mary Power, Teresa Butler, Donie Ryan, Joan and Gerry Quinn, Michael Barry, Mary Dwyer, Tim Mounsey, Tom Cummins and Niamh Condren. Later some of the group occupied themselves with rock climbing on the famous Via Ferratas of Italy with our ladies members very much to the fore here. Those who literally topped the hardest (grade five) via Ferrata were Bridget Browne, Winnie Flynn, Mary Power, Dan Condren and Joan and Gerry Quinn.

Meanwhile we have over 65 participants already confirmed and so there are only about 25 places left for our Autumn Charity Challenge, which this year takes place among the unmatched scenery of the Cooley and Mourne Mountains and offers all comers some of the best walking in Ireland suitable for all fitness levels. The event, which takes place from, Fri Oct 14 to Sun Oct 16, is open to all - including newcomers to outdoor walking - wishing to support the cause of blind people.

If you might like to participate the entire weekend, including hotel accommodation, costs just 189 euro and further information can be had from Michael Sutton, 17 Willowmere Drive, Thurles Co Tipp; Tel: 0504-21482 or 086–4009989; email michaelsutton1949@gmail.com. Also on Sunday next, Sept 18, our usual programme goes ahead with both high and introductory level walks leaving from outside Cashel firestation at 11am.