Odiham Climbing Club Reaching New Heights

On June 13th personnel from RAF Odiham took part in in a Rock Climbing Single-Pitch Foundation Course (RSF) delivered by Flt Lt Richardson and supported by Cpl Fillingham-Doyle, OiC and 2iC of the newly founded RAF Odiham Climbing Club.

The undertaking was blessed by unusually dry and sunny weather for the climate of North Wales and this was taken full advantage of. One of the benefits of undertaking a RSF with a unit instructor like Flt Lt Richardson rather than the albeit expertly run and well worth while JSAT Centre courses is that you instructor is accommodated with you.

Evenings were spent at the local pub talking over climbing techniques and theory while the opportunity to exploit the beautiful sunny days was fully taken on board, after a hearty breakfast provided by the excellent staff at Capel Curig Training Centre, students found themselves on the crag by 0900 and climbing until they were forced to retreat to make meal timings.

The variety of North Wales meant that every day was a different location, from the beautifully foreboding Ogwen valley under the shadow of Tryfan to the picturesque sea views from Holyhead mountain, each presenting their own learning points, challenges and enjoyment. Punctuated by the occasional diversion such as a dip in the shallows of Llyn Cwellyn, the week was a worthwhile and challenging endeavour, leaving the students at a standard and confidence of climbing that saw them easily achieve the RSF requirements and put them in a good place to further their climbing qualifications and experience at JSAT centres in the future.

For the 2023 year, Flt Lt Richardson and his trusty 2iC, Cpl Fillingham-Doyle intend to organise an identical endeavour, so for those who might be interested please contact either individual or attend the Climbing Club in the Stn Gym.