The UN International Year of the Mountain is now well under way. For those of you who've managed to avoid all mention of it, the idea of the year is to raise awareness of the importance of the mountain environment amongst the outdoor community
and the global population at large. The organisers hope to highlight important issues such as
sustainable development, integration and breaking barriers, and
strengthening international relations.
Below is the list of domestic events
BMC International Climbing Meet 2002
5-12 May, Plas y Brenin, N Wales.
Once again, some of the world's leading climbing athletes will be gathering
at the Plas y Brenin National Mountain Centre for a week of climbing
adventure this summer. The BMC International Meet is now an established
event in the outdoor calendar and involves debates, workshops and social
events as well as climbing - a guaranteed great time for those wishing to
expand their climbing knowledge, discuss opinions and meet new friends! This
year, the BMC will be inviting around 50 of the sports leading international
exponents to the meet, and is looking for a similar number of British
climbers to act as hosts and show the guests what it's all about.
The general theme for the meet will "breaking barriers" (both socially and
environmentally) within the outdoor community, and so applications from
minority groups are especially welcomed. A lecture and seminar programme
based around these topics will run in parallel to the climbing excursions
each day.
The only requirements for consideration are that you be an active climber
(regardless of ability) living in the UK and have a good knowledge of
climbing in North Wales. Don't miss this great opportunity to add some
international flavour to your climbing activities!
What's included?
Accommodation and food for the week at Plas y Brenin will be provided by the
BMC.
What's not included?
Transfer to and from the event. Bar food if you're out late!
How to Apply...
Register your interest with a brief resume of your climbing experience with
Stuart Ingram at the BMC office.
Deadline...
15 March 2002
(Further details available on application)
BMC / KZN MCSA South Africa exchange
3-11 May & 6-14 Sept 2002
We are still inviting applications to experience the splendour of climbing
or trekking in some of the most amazing mountain terrain on the planet. The
exchange is open to any dedicated climber or trekker regardless of grade,
and is a great opportunity to foster stronger international links within our
sport, as well as have the time of your life in this wonderful country!
Six to eight (number tbc) lucky climbers will enjoy sun-drenched rock in the
"Kingdom of the Zulus" on the NE seaboard, as well as visiting SA's highest
mountains - the stunning Drakensbergs. Later in the year (6-14 September),
the (6-8) strong trekking party will traverse the breathtaking escarpment
dividing SA and Lesotho before visiting the famous Ndedema Gorge.
What's included?
The Kwa-Zulu section of the MCSA is generously offering hospitality whilst
in the country, and the BMC international committee will also provide a £100
bursary to each of the successful applicants.
What's not included?
Transfer to South Africa
How to Apply...
Please apply direct via post or email to Stuart at the BMC office with an
activity CV and personal profile.
Deadline...
15 March for the climbing meet (3-11 May)
15 July for the trekking meet (6-14 September)
(Further details available on application)
The National Outdoor Welcome (NOW)
The BMC has joined the Outdoor Industries Association (a.k.a. Go Outdoors or
COLA) initiative NOW 2002. The campaign is intended to encourage people back
into the countryside in response to the impacts of FMD in 2001. At present
the BMC's intended involvement in NOW will consist of 20 open days at
climbing walls throughout the UK with the twin aims of introducing newcomers
to the sport and providing existing users with the skills to take their
climbing outdoors should they wish to do so.
Further details tbc.
UN IYM Internet LINKS
