MCSA KZN Newsletter May 2023

The News

2023 May May

YOUR MAY NEWSLETTER IS HERE!

Thursday 22

Durban Adventure Talk Dolomites

Michaela Geytenbeek

Thursday 29

Cederberg High Level Traverse Crossways, Hilton Steve Cooke

July

June 30 – July 9

July Camp Monk's Cowl Rikki Wedderburn

Dear Mountain Enthusiasts,

Welcome to the energising month of May—a prelude to South Africa's winter and a time ripe with adventure! I'm thrilled to present this edition of our Mountain Club Newsletter, overflowing with inspiring stories, forthcoming activities, and events designed to bring us all together.

Ever imagined the thrill of conquering a challenging climb? Dive into the exciting world of Graeme, Gavin, and Sarah on page 3. This dynamic trio has been pushing their limits on the rocks, defying gravity, and their experiences are certain to set both your heart racing and spirit soaring.

Don't forget to mark our eagerly awaited July Camp on your calendar, detailed on page 8. It promises to be a time of shared tales around the fire, laughter under the stars, and friendships forged in the heart of our magnificent mountains.

I couldn't resist sharing a glimpse of an epic event that took place over the weekend of June 2-3—the 2023 Giant's Cup Trail Run & Hike. Flip to page 9 to relive the journey through the Southern Drakensberg. While we've included some breathtaking pictures, there's a wealth of visual splendour available at your fingertips —just follow the provided link to view the full gallery.

Lastly, for those of you seeking a serene retreat in the upcoming July holiday season, the tranquil haven of Cambalala awaits your discovery. Availability and booking details are featured on page 12. Remember to book your spot early to secure this mountainous getaway!

Let's make the most of this upcoming winter season. Remember, adventure is out there, waiting for you! Here's to fresh air and firm footholds,

~ Vicky van Zyl

Friday 30 – Sunday 2

Cambalala Workmeet

Cambalala Cottage Clem Robins

Saturday 8 – Sunday 9

Climbing and social weekend Umgeni Valley Trent Burnett

Thursday 13

Supplementary Rescue Training

Hillcrest Scout Hall Colin McCoy

Photo Credit: Simon de Jong

From under the desk of the President

Dear Members,

The last month of autumn was quiet on the membership front with no new members joining us The committee, however, was busy at both section and national level The most interesting discussions at the May KZN meeting revolved around July Camp planning and new developments in the outreach portfolio The committee approved sponsorship of a buff to each person who booked a spot at July Camp before the cut-off date Hopefully, this will have generated additional interest and enthusiasm for booking early. The outreach portfolio has had some changes driven from a national level and influenced by our relationship with the Department of Sports. In summary, the portfolio will now be known as the MCSA Community Programme and the government have included additional hoops to jump through and checks to be done for us to access funding and have volunteers join the programme

In national news, the national committee had their AGM in May The president, secretary, treasurer, and deputy president remain unchanged, with representatives of Cape Town and Eastern Cape comprising the balance of the executive committee For those unaware, the national committee is made up of each section's chairpersons as well as a president, secretary and treasurer who are not permitted to be section chairs

The noteworthy topics discussed at the national AGM and committee meeting were MCSA's diversity efforts and the struggles we are facing in this regard, as well as the rollout of Digital Journals which by now you should all have gained access to after receiving an email from me explaining how to do this This is a very useful tool and is well worth having a look if you have not done so already With autumn over by the time you read this, I wish you a warm winter season, whether that be sitting around a fire at Cambalala or the warm fuzzy feeling you get from sending an Ice Route Whatever it is, be safe

Regards

Carl Dreyer President KZN Section, MCSA

Climbing The Monk: An Unforgettable Drakensberg Climbing Experience

A Late Arrival

My headlights illuminate a gate in the gloom by 18:30 in May the sun has long retired behind the escarpment and the gate is locked Bugger A sign displays gate hours as 06:00 to 18:00 and the adjacent fence is buckled, burdened by previous latecomers However, a few metres to the right, an unobstructed pedestrian entrance provides an unexpected access point; it appears I'll be shouldering my pack earlier than anticipated

Changing Plans in Unforgiving Weather

Earlier, our meet WhatsApp group had witnessed a steady attrition of attendees as rain lashed the province and snow threatened. Our Garden Castle ambitions to scale The Monk and explore the slabs next to Sleeping Beauty Cave seemed dashed.

Faced with a potential mutiny, our leader Gavin Raubenheimer made the decision to forgo the comforting stout for the chilling embrace of a Drakensberg stream Yet the forecasts remained hopeful, predicting clear skies and sunshine with perhaps a mild chill Sarah Alcock, the lone voice amongst us, called for resolve.

Under the Stars at Hermit’s Wood

Thus, I joined Sarah and Gavin at their fire in the Hermit’s Wood campsite under a sky studded with stars on a crisp, still night

A Frosty Morning

Dawn unveiled frost-dusted tents, clear skies, and a Rhino Peak lightly dusted with snow. Over breakfast and coffee, we discussed the climbs The Monk [Where’re the Handholds (G3)] today and Southern Friction [F2] tomorrow.

Confronting the Pitch

The Monk’s first pitch, an infamous offwidth crack in a corner, is well known as a challenge. The nervous excitement surged as we sorted gear and set off towards the Sleeping Beauty Cave under a radiant blue sky, against a backdrop of a shimmering, snowdraped escarpment.

A Change in Terrain: Towards Cod's Eye Cave

The path diverged, taking us up the Cod’s Eye Cave valley, beneath The Monk After stashing our hiking backpacks and reorganising gear, the climb up to the base of the route began a surprisingly pleasant trek up grass banks and through occasional rock bands

Challenging Ascents

By 11:00, we were at the cave at the base of the climb The prospect looked phenomenal I gladly accepted the rack from Gavin, who'd freed and aided the pitch previously Sarah opted to sit this one out, deciding to enjoy the beautiful day from the cave, while Gavin planned to jumar the pitch to save time

The climb was strenuous from the onset I placed a medium cam, shifted my hands and feet, and installed a fist-sized cam After a few more moves, a decent foothold appeared on the right, offering a breather This was the rhythm of the pitch, each section progressively steeper and thinner than the last

Tackling the Ascent

However, I found myself short on gear. I placed a poor hex, then, feeling slightly unnerved, backed it up with an unconventional cam before committing to the last hard moves. Eventually, I emerged onto easier ground, able to stand comfortably for the first time in an hour. I managed to free a large cam stuck in the crack below, a task more challenging than expected. I ascended to a roof where I found a small crack to place three equalised micros, creating a secure anchor.

Reaching the Peak

Gavin jumared and cleaned the pitch before leading up to the ledge and completing the second pitch. Then, we scrambled up to the start of the third pitch. It started tentatively as the initial slab was quite slick, but once I gained the arête, it was an exhilarating experience with thin face climbing above a sheer drop-off.

Reflecting at the Summit

Gavin presented me with the lead for the fourth pitch, which reminded me of previous climbs at Old Baldy [iSithumba]. Gavin joined me at the summit at 15:45. As we signed the summit book, we marvelled at the snowy escarpment above and the stunning sandstone below.

The Descent and Journey to Sleeping Beauty Cave

With the first of three abseils rigged, we began our descent at 16:30, reuniting with Sarah on the ground at 17:00. Next, we journeyed to Sleeping Beauty Cave for the night, which, burdened by the hefty cams, we reached just after 19:00.

By:

Graeme Bruschi

Photo credits:

GB SA GR

Gavin Raubenheimer

Sarah Alcock

Graeme Bruschi

WE NEED YOU WE NEED YOU

JoiningtheMountainClubofSouthAfrica's(MCSA)SearchandRescueteamoffersanincredibleopportunitytonotonlygiveback tothehikingandclimbingcommunity,butalsotodevelopyourownskills,gainuniqueexperiences,andbepartofaclose-knitteam that's truly making a difference. As a team member, you'll engage in high berg hikes, cliff training sessions, and real-life rescue missions, all while maintaining your own 48-hour personal rescue pack. If you're a climber, you can progress further, mastering advanced rescue techniques, and even move into leadership roles as an Assistant Rescue Organiser (ARO) or Rescue Organiser (RO). The demands are high, but the rewards are even higher – from the camaraderie of like-minded peers to the profound satisfaction of helping those in need. By contributing to search and rescue, you're not just hiking or climbing, you're becoming a guardianofthemountains.FormoreinformationwhatsappPaulRothon0763950119orColinMcCoyon0825467963

ADVENTURE-SEEKERS AND NATURE-LOVERS!

Do you love the great outdoors? Want to explore the hidden wonders of mountains? Then we have an offer you can't refuse!

Join the Mountain Club today and get access to exciting hiking trails, where you'll be surrounded by breathtaking views and some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth Plus, as a member, you'll get discount at participating partners, so you can gear up and tackle any challenge that comes your way

But, beware! If you don't join our group, you'll be missing out on all the fun, and we can't promise we won't leave you behind on our toughest climbs. Imagine being stranded on that mountain, all alone, with no one to share your survival snacks with That's what could happen if you're not a part of our tight-knit crew

So, don't be a scaredy-cat! Come join us and let's conquer the mountains together. We guarantee memories you'll never forget and stories you'll tell for years to come.

Join the Mountain Club today- your adventure awaits!

Event Details:

Giant’s Cup

Trail Run & Hike Trail Run & Hike

By: Colleen Knox

The Giant's Cup Trail is a renowned 62km hiking route

The Giant's Cup Trail is a renowned 62km hiking route in the Maloti-Drakensberg Park, a World Heritage Site famous for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Taking its name from the iconic Hodgson's Peaks a large rock formation resembling an upturned giant's cup the trail presents a diverse terrain It's well-marked, with challenging climbs, descents, and several river crossings A year-round attraction is the spectacular Gxalingenwa Gorge, filled with crystal clear mountain water and featuring refreshing pools and waterfalls for the brave-hearted.

Typically, hikers complete the Giant's Cup Trail over five days, accommodated in huts managed by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife The unique Giant’s Cup Trail Run & Hike event, however, offers participants the opportunity to run or hike the entire or half trail in just two days The nearby Sani Pass Hotel by Premier Hotels provides comfort and amenities. Over the weekend, the hotel serves as the base for runners and hikers, with arranged shuttles ferrying them to and from the starts and finishes, ensuring they return to hot showers and warm beds each day

EEmbracing mbracing the Journey, the Journey, Not Just the Not Just the Finish Line Finish Line

Day two began with an enchanting sunrise. The journey for the full-distance participants resumed from Castleburn Resort, while the Lite group started from Cobham Campsite. Despite the rising wind, the day was memorable, marked by refreshing river crossings and the striking view of the Gxalingenwa Gorge. At the finish line, athletes were greeted with a hot lunch, massages, and a lively prize-giving ceremony.

First place acknowledgements were awarded to Neil Cable and Patricia van Zyl for the full-distance trail run; Marize Tunmer and Kai Frost-Bedford for the Lite trail run; Morne De Bruin for full-distance hiking, and Hayley O’Grady Moutinhou for Lite hiking.

On 1 June 2023, runners and hikers convened at Premier Resort Sani Pass for the Giant’s Cup Trail Run & Hike. Participants were delighted to receive their race numbers along with an exclusive goodie bag from The North Face, including a locally handmade ceramic mug and a Giant’s Cup-branded blanket. The evening featured a brief by Race Director Spurgeon Flemington and a vibrant Zulu dance performance.

Day one, albeit frosty, offered ideal running conditions. The full and Lite distance runners started from Bushman’s Nek Hotel and Sani Pass Hotel respectively. The day unfolded with breath-taking views from Garden Castle Ridge line and concluded at Wintershoek Hut, with hearty applause, refreshing beverages and a delectable buffet.

The event was graced by regular attendees including Gill and Frank Lumley, Ashley and Kai Frost, and 'Trail Queen' Phophi Hazel Matidze. The 2023 Giant’s Cup demonstrated an inclusive atmosphere, attracting an almost equal split of runners and hikers, focusing on enjoyment as much as achievement.

Congratulations to every participant who made the 2023 Giant’s Cup Trail Run & Hike a grand success!

Photo credits: Anthony Grote & Kirsten Olivier

Stay at the Exquisite Cambalala Cottage This July!

Attention Mountain Club of South Africa Members!

Are you seeking the perfect getaway, a place where the air is pure, the views are breathtaking, and the adventures are limitless? Look no further than Cambalala Cottage, your ideal retreat nestled near the summit of Mike's Pass in the majestic Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Cathedral Peak Reserve of the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg.

Cambalala is no ordinary mountain hut; it's a comfortable self-catering cottage that offers an unforgettable experience of the Drakensberg's spectacular natural beauty. This July, escape the everyday hustle and immerse yourself in the calm serenity of our pristine wilderness, where the gentle whispers of the wind and the mesmerising songs of native birds form the soundtrack of your stay.

Whether you ' re an avid hiker seeking challenging mountain trails, a mountain biking enthusiast craving exhilarating paths, or a bird watcher eager to spot rare species, Cambalala Cottage is your perfect base Here, you'll find not just a place to rest your head but a launchpad for unforgettable adventures.

The cottage, accessible by vehicle, sleeps up to 8 adults (16 years and over). Enjoy quality time with your loved ones in our cozy living spaces, prepare your favourite meals in our fully-equipped kitchen, and end the day under the starry African sky, sharing stories around the firepit.

Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to experience the magic of the Drakensberg like never before.

Availability for July will be open to all KZN members for a week before being advertised more widely.

Members, claim your priority booking now and secure your spot at Cambalala Cottage this July!

Bookings:

Deposit:

Rates: R100 pppn R80 pppn

Experience the soul of the Drakensberg at Cambalala Cottage where adventure meets tranquillity.

Non-Club members:

Club members: R140 pppn

weekends: Minimum two nights even that would be too short you'll see

Contact: Clem 084 500 4666

clemnolarobins@gmail.com

Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity! The charming Cambalala Cottage, nestled in the heart of the Drakensberg, still has a few slots available for July, ready to offer you the ultimate retreat experience Whether you ' re captivated by the tranquil allure of the mountains or the enchanting whisper of nature, act swiftly to secure your space! Embrace this chance for an unforgettable stay in our splendid cottage. Confirm your booking today and let the captivating beauty of the Drakensberg welcome you this July!

Dear Mountain Club Members,

Thanks for your engaging narratives and stunning photos that enrich our community. Your active participation has brought our shared mountain love to life.

I've been immensely grateful for the opportunity to serve as your temporary Newsletter Editor and your stories have made this role all the more rewarding However, let's not forget that the Newsletter Editor position remains open. If you live in the KZN region and feel you ' re up to the task, I encourage you to reach out at newsletter.1.editor@gmail.com. In the meantime, rest assured that I'll continue pouring my efforts into this newsletter, celebrating our club and its many adventures.

Our club is not only about reaching new peaks, but also celebrating and sharing the joy, challenge, and beauty found in the mountains As we prepare for the 50th anniversary, it's heartening to see the dedication to improve the Cambalala cottage. But there's still work to be done, and we need your help. Please consider contributing where you can.

As winter begins, let's keep embracing nature's subtle wonders and carry this explorative spirit into our daily lives. Beyond being a club, we ' re a community, let's continue to uplift each other and form lasting connections.

Anticipating the shared experiences in the coming months. Until next issue, enjoy safe and rewarding adventures. May the mountains keep calling and your spirit keep answering.

Warmest regards,

Vicky van Zyl