Hard Rock Challenge

New Website

2010-06-08T09:55:00.003-07:00

Check out the new website at www.theorangehouse.co.ukwww.theorangehouse.co.uk

Hard Rock Tour - We need to start collecting again!

2009-06-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

On the 13th of July it will be the 2nd year anniversary for the start of Hard Rock Challenge. The day that Mark and Richard climbed Coronation Street in Chedder Gorge and 5 weeks and 60 routes later they finished on Moonraker in Devon.

London Mountaineering Club last month invited Rich to come and do a talk and slideshow, they put a further 265 pounds in the pot. Thanks guys!

We now need more places and clubs to go and visit to raise more money.

Anyone that is a member of a club that would like the boys to come and visit please get in touch, no charge is made to the club just a minimum donation to Mountain Rescue.

email sam on mailto:sam@theorangehouse.net

Trailer for the best British climbing film :0)

2008-08-06T09:05:00.000-07:00

Finding your way around this blog!

2008-08-06T07:28:00.000-07:00

Now that this blog is archived you might find it hard to work out the story!

Can you see on the left hand side "blog archive" well you need to click on that and then on 2007, it has a little arrow that when you press it gives you more options for the months, then you can be more specific and go through the dates as you want to.

Thanks and happy reading!

Sam

New Video Link

2007-09-13T11:42:00.001-07:00

Check this out!

http://www.army.mod.uk/news/army_news_current_stories/hard_rock_climb.htm

Kendal Film Festival Confirmed

2007-09-13T09:19:00.001-07:00

Good news is that after lots of emails flying backwards and forwards to John Porter we now have a slot at this years Kendal Film Festival.

Sunday 18th November - 12.30pm Malt Rooms

I am so happy as it means a few things :-

Firstly, I get an excuse to come back to the UK, everyone thinks I am mad but I do miss the old place, and even though this year I saw it at its wettest I still loved it.

Secondly, we get to see all our friends again. We made the most amazing contacts this summer and hopefully we can call them friends and continue to see them lots. Sir Chris was a charmer which I am sure most people that know him will confirm. David Simmonite and I get on like a house on fire. In fact I am sure Rich would say too much as one night when Dave slept in Cheryl we stayed awake talking until the small hours like a couple of teenagers!

Some of the Mountain Rescue people we will stay in contact with, especially the young couple from Cornwall as they offered to take us surfing next summer. Julian from Wasdale we will also meet again and hopefully next time he will go climbing with us.

Stephen Reid was a great support during the challenge and it was so nice when I was alone in the van and I would get a phone call asking how we were getting on. I even remember on a very wet day in Aviemore when he had taken the trouble to check the weather report for me for North Wales.

Alot of these people we will hopefully see at Kendal and if not during one of our less stressful trips to the UK.

Trying to get back to normal!

2007-09-03T11:32:00.000-07:00

I don´t really know if I am coming or going at the moment. We got back from the trip and I had 2 days before I left again to watch my eldest boy Daniel play cricket for Spain down at La Manga. It was the European Championships and they did really well. Three wins out of five and only getting beaten by the champs from last year and this years winners, Guernsey. You can check out the details here CricketEurope.net

I have just finished an article for Mountain Rescue Magazine, it was nice just writing down everything in one go, I didn´t even need to look back at my journal! I will post it whole on here once the magazine has been published.

Rich now has the daunting task of going through the 100´s of hours of video tape. Not a job to be taken lightly. Simon did try to keep a log during the trip but time ran out on us everyday.

One thing writing the story out in full did, was bringing back some of the not so nice memories from the trip :-

Out of touch with the real world! - I never realised before how much we rely on mobile phone coverage and the internet. It was such a weird feeling know that people could not get hold of me. I did put an automatic reply on my emails which explained why I could not get back to people, but I still worried. It didn´t really bother Rich as he leaves all that stuff to me and Mark did have his small pda which he used in the back on the van whilst on the move!

Places like Petes Eats which is a cafe in Llanberis, ended up been a god send! they even trust you to tell them how many minutes you use and pay downstairs. The internet cafe in Fort William was also great, the guy even set me up with a tab which he kept open for 2 weeks inbetween the visits.

No sharing with Rich - Some days if I had time between cleaning the van, shopping and cooking I would take Tufa for a walk. The one that stands out the most was my day in The Cairngorms. The boys had set off for the second time to climb King Rat and Goliath, I chilled in the morning on the campsite and then decided to have a bimble around the loch! little did I know it was a 9 mile round trip.

I was so amazed by the view but was very very sad that I had no one to share it with. I even got a little tearful when I looked up to the crag he was climbing on, knowing that I was not going to see him for a few hours.

We will go back to alot of the places we visited this summer and I am determined to take the time to enjoy all the beautiful places together.

A few more photos from the collection :-

Another great Mike Robertson photo - Rich using the tree on North Crag Eliminate!

Almost too warm to climb and this was Wales - The boys on The Big Groove

Stephen Reid took this photo of the boys on The Crack in the rain

Back in Spain and its raining!!!

2007-08-24T03:47:00.000-07:00

I don´t believe it, we are back home at The Orange House and its raining and really windy, what did I do in a past life to deserve this? (don´t answer that anyone!).

Feels weired to be back and a bit sad really, so much planning and now its all over. Rich is happy though, he went climbing last night with Keith (better not tell him its nice in the UK at the mo!) and he put the draws in his 8a, he claims his climbing has suffered during this trip and says his legs have grown.

Here are a few more photos from the trip:-

This is one of my favourite shots, when the cloud started to clear around the Old Man, I was snoozing in the tent on top of the cliff and I got a call over the radio from the boys saying "wake up, you might be able to see us". If you click on the photo you can just make out Mark´s white helmet.

Tufa chewing on an antler that we found on the road to Ballater. Anyone going up that way I can recommend the local campsite. It is council run and the guy Dougie was lovely, he charged us 10 quid only and then gave it us back to put in the pot.

This photo was taken on the way out of Wasdale campsite. I had never been to The Lakes before and really liked the place. We will be going back next year but not rushing around quite so much!

I am just going through David Simmonite´s photos and will upload some of them in the next hour, he reallys not a bad photograher (she runs and hides!).

The boys on Coronation Street
The boys on Shibboleth
Rich on Elder Crack
Mark on Suicide Wall no 1

I will be away for the next week as my eldest Dan is playing cricket for Spain in the European Championships down at La Manga. Wish them luck everyone, they will need it!

I will update the blog again when I get back, that will be in a little over a week.

Hard Rock Fest - same again next year!

2007-08-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

This blog will now be updated once a week!

Look at that happy face!

We finished the last climb on Berryhead on Friday afternoon and had some time to enjoy a lovely meal on the way to The Mill Adventure Centre. Rich was falling asleep during the short drive but strangely he came alive when we arrived at The Mill. "Can you set a route for us Rich?" asked Keith. "Of course I can" replies Rich.

Prize giving

Jon Tate during the dyno comp

The whole weekend went really well, although more people would have been nice! Thanks to the following :-

Paul and Dave at The Mill - See you next year guys
Celebrity climbers - Steve McClure, James Pearson and Mikey Robertson
The Crew - Thanks guys and well done for not feeding Tufa any burgers!
Attendees - Thanks for showing up and buying tickets and taking part
Cotswold for the prizes and Auction items - lets hope we see you all next year as-well!
and most important thank you goes to Keith from Rock and Rapid Adventures, we really could not have had such a great weekend with you.

Keith from Rock and Rapid Adventures working out the comp scores

Day 36 and its all over!

2007-08-17T08:27:00.001-07:00

Champagne time! I can't believe its all over, well for this year anyway.

The boys started climbing with Ken Palmer todays Celebrity Climber (sorry Ken) at about 12 miday. The film crews turned up just in time to see them top out!

For those that can WATCH ITV TONIGHT AT 6PM!

Thanks to those that called me today to wish the boys luck, a super large thanks to Stephen Reid from Needlesports as he now has to send me a rather large cheque - he promised the boys £5 per route.

I will be posting more over the coming weeks about Stephen as he is one of the two guys that has completed all the routes. His story is a great one!

Please if you can, keep reading this blog as I will be updating it lots over the coming weeks with more stories of the trip and with more photos.

Thanks to those that have put comments to keep us going. Thanks again for the donations everyone. Thanks to Ju and David for the cup of tea in Torquay and the use of the pc.

I will be posting the address on here very shortly where to send cheques for those that want to donate that way.

A few more photos from today...

Does he deserve a big kiss? I think so!

The Final purile tick!

Day 35 End in Sight!

2007-08-16T10:56:00.000-07:00

Started the day with amazing sunshine although a bit windy! we all slept at The Count House at Bosigram. Lovely views...

Three members from Cornwall Search and Rescue came to give support, and handed over a really great letter. - Andy I hope you dont mind me reading it out but it moved me to tears this morning.

Dear Hard Rock Challenge Team

On behalf of Cornwall Search and Rescue Team, and the wider Mountain Rescue community, I would like to offer our heartfelt thanks for what you are doing.

Many in Mountain Rescue have followed your progress with great interest, recognising what a truly amazing achievement it will be when you complete your final climb.

To undertake all of the Hard Rock climbs, and to do it in just five weeks, take passion, courage and determination. But it also takes something else; an aweful lot of planning and support. That is why our thanks go not just to Rich and Mark but to your dedicated support team who have played a vital part in your success.

Whatever the total amount you raise may be, £3,000 or £30,000, does not lessen your achievement in any way. You have done a hugh amount to raise the profile of your causes - especially Mountain Rescue - and you are no doubt aware, every penny raised is desperately needed and will go directly to our central aim of saving lifes in wild and remote places (be it the moors of Cornwall or the Mountains of Scotland).

So as your challenge draws to a close, may we thank you once more, wish you the very best of luck with your remaining climbs and hope you enjoy the well deserved after party.

Yours sincerely

A Brelsford

Chair - CSRT

Gulp!

The Routes climbed today were Suicide Wall, Bow Wall and Bishops Rib.
Soooooooooo, that only leaves one left to climb, didn't think I would be typing that!

Two dodgy photographers (aka Mikey Robertson and Mother Si)

Day 34

2007-08-15T01:54:00.001-07:00

Its raining in the South West :0(

We are sat at Auntie Barbaras preparing the slide show for The Hard Rock Fest. Rich is seeing most of the photos for the first time! he says "where is that then? oh yeh now I remember!"

We are leaving in a few hours and heading to Land End, that means that this trip I will have driven from the very top of Britian to the very bottom. I have a rough total for the miles and its over 4,5ooo.

Someone asked me the other day how much this trip had cost me! Alot was the answer! He then said "well why didnt you just donate that to Mountain Rescue?" good point, why not?

This challenge was firstly a summer holiday/climbing trip paid for by us all, petrol, food, accommodation etc. Then the idea to try to raise money for Mountain Rescue at the same time came about.

DMM, North Face, Evolv have all given equipment and clothing but no cash. The photographers have also given of their time for free. Lots of other people have given time and effort and we are very grateful.

This summer has been an amazing one, very hard at times but so worth it!

Day 33 - Sleep...................

2007-08-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

A very happy Rich after his "complete personal tick"!

Sleep! - Well thats about all Rich has done today, it took us 5 1/2 hours from North Wales to Plymouth and I was alone in the front of the van!

Last night was lovely as it was our Wedding Anniversary we went to the 24 hour Tesco in Bangor and bought one of those instant curries! Rich ran back to the van and closed all the blinds, lit a candle and put on some nice music! Very, very romantic and a Tesco's carpark was the perfect venue for a perfect wedding anniversary.

Tomorrow we head further South and if the rain stops Bow Wall at Bosigran could get ticked!

Then Suicide Wall also at Bosi, then a drive to Chair Ladder for Bishops Rib.

Berryhead Route Moonraker is last on Friday as the press should be present!

Please come and join us on Sat or Sunday if you can make it to the party (Hard Rock Fest) The boys will be doing a talk with Slide Show on both days.

Some thank you's. I will remember more so please dont get upset if I miss you out!

Jane Newman for doing an amazing job of looking after The Orange House for me.
Andy at the CIC hut for my flapjack.
Auntie Barbara that was the best shower in a long time.
Mum for all the love she keeps sending us.
Littleduck keep up the good work!

Simon Fisher (mother si) because he really does not have to do any of this!
David Simmonite for the giggles.
Ray Woods for hanging around yesterday.
Keith at Rock and Rapid Adventures - dont worry they will come!
and anyone else who has put money in the tin etc etc

Some more photos from the last few days!
The boys on a very wet Cenotaph Corner. Marks lead!

Dwm, what a great route they both said and Rich's complete tick!

The "Welsh Girlies" yesterday after Moustrap! (Silvia Fitzpatrick and Glenda Huxtor)

DAY 32: Bye Bye North Wales

2007-08-13T06:26:00.000-07:00

UPDATE FROM SAM:

Rich and Mark are now climbing Dwm on Castell Cidwm which leaves one more route to do in North Wales, Mousetrap at South Stack, Gogarth, which they are with Silvia Fitzpatrick and Glenda Huxter at 5pm this afternoon.

Dwm is extra special for Rich as this is the only Hard Rock route he hasn't done in the past, so that would make him the third person (that we know about) to complete all the climbs in Hard Rock.

Then it is down South to Chair Ladder and Bosigran with the final route on Friday, Moonraker at Berry Head.

Day 31 Final Edition

2007-08-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

So, do you think they did it?

Shall I tell you?

Of course they did! What another bloody relief! they really do deserve a medal for today.

I counted up in the van before that they have now climbed for 31 days with only 3 days off due to bad weather.

They have climbed routes that people would not touch at all!

I am sooooooo proud! (Rich love you babes x)

Goodnight everyone

Day 31 3rd Edition

2007-08-12T10:11:00.000-07:00

Right! Simon just called to say they are back on it! After 4 hours this morning they gave up! But sounds like Mark is moving past the part that stopped them! Its is really black up there at the moment and I am praying to the cloud gods to give them a break!

Day 31 2 Edition - Not looking good!

2007-08-12T09:04:00.000-07:00

I dont know how much more of this I can stand, and I aint climbing!

I got a call about an hour ago (whilst in the launderette) saying "its not going well!, They cant get up Slanting Slab as the water is running down it like a water fall!"

It rained so much in the night that I am not surprised, sp they came down and they have just done the Combination climb so only one more left on that bloody horrible crag!

Simon has just called and said that they are really really cold although it is not raining (yet) cloud looks really black from down here! They may try to get back on Slanting but if not we have to get them down quick and they have to climb Cenotaph Corner.

I feel so sick with worry for them, need some more crossed fingers folkes!

Day 31

2007-08-12T03:53:00.001-07:00

Some very tired boys on the FORTH! time walking up to Cloggy! Go boys go, I just left them and they are completely knackered! At least they have sherpas this morning in the shape of Rich´s daughter Trish and her friend Mat!

Here is the photo of me yesterday in V12 The best Outdoor shop in Llanberis. I was reading the guide book for the boys. Thanks again Rob, and for the free coffee this morning.

Here are a few more photos from the past few days!

Mark Lassoing on White Slab almost in the dark!

Great weather in Wales!

Day 30 Final Edition

2007-08-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

The Grooves - tick
Great Wall - tick
Vember - tick

Boys on the way back down (in the rain) what a great day!

I really did not think we would get this far and am so happy for them both.

So whats left?
WALES
Slanting Slab
Great Bow combo
Dwm - with Adam Hocking
Mousestrap - with Glenda Huxtor
Cenotaph Wall

SOUTH WEST
Suicide Wall
Bishops Rib
Bow Wall
Moonraker - last day - Friday the 17th!!!!!!!

Ye ha!

Day 30 edition 2

2007-08-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness this is getting exciting! They came down and did The Grooves at Cryn Las and called me to say they were heading back up to Cloggy, what did I tell them!

Then got a call to say the guide book was in the van! silly or what! and could I read the description out so they knew where to go! I was in V12 at the time for the famous coffee, and Rob kindly let me use a shop copy. I read from the book and Si recorded my words using Marks mobile held close to his phone.

I then got the first of some exciting text messages.

1. Rich is 25ft up The Great Wall.
2. Rich has just finished 1st pitch, said was OK but tough work! Marks lead looks wet!
3. Mark half way up top pitch. Looking OK loads of gear in, she is going to go!
4. Both topped out abing off now, wil probably do Vember then home.

Wow feel a bit sick after all that.

I am now going to feed the ducks with, Di, Vic, Hannah, George and Olivia . Phew!!

Day 30

2007-08-11T04:48:00.000-07:00

Well last night was a bit of an epic! the boys went up to climb Great Wall, the hardest route in the book and the one I think they have been dreading! It was too wet! to which I replied "It aint going to get any better" but instead they set off up White Slab, still a really hard route and twice as long!

So day light ran out and they had to finish in the dark, then had to run back down the path to the car! Finished the day at 11pm, very tired and Rich was very miserable! His last thought before bed was " Wales is going to be the end of us".

We had looked at the forecast yesterday and its bad! Rain and showers today and tomorrow and then really really heavy rain, we are going to run out of days!

This moring did not start well! Rain when we woke up, they boys however, after another Petes Eats breakfast, started up the path. They only got a short way and I got the call, "come back to the car park we need to come back". I went to collect them thinking "stay there the weather will improve". But they gave up listening to me ages ago.

I dropped them of in the pass to climb 2 more if possible, The Grooves and Cenotaph Corner.

Guess what though! the weather has improved and I am now in sunshine, looks like they will have to go back up that path again!

Please everyone, keeps your fingers, toes etc crossed as we really are up against it this time and I personally am worried!

Firday - Mid Day Update

2007-08-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Sorry no pictures at the moment but i thought i better give you an update. Other than the tour of North Wales finest Climbing Cafes (Petes and Erics in a morning), the guys are doing ok.

We decided on Vector this morning as the weather on Cloggy and the Pass was crap. However, driving through the pass the brakes were slammed on and we shot into the CC hut as the guys decided Diagonal might just go.

They ran to the bottom of the crag and shot up the route, finishing just as the rain started. It was a great effort and showed that with roadside crags as long as you are willing to change your plans and can react quickly, there are always routes to be done.

Back in the car then and to Erics for a quick tea, before returning to the original plan of Vector. Unusually for this trip the sun came out and it was quite warm for a bit. The guys enjoyed the route with both of them commenting that it seemed much easier than the last time they did it....maybe after 46 routes they are getting better!!!

Well there is no rest for the wicked and after a call from Sam telling us to get our arses back to Cloggy, they have all disappeared for an evening on Great Wall. What with the rain this morning and it being E4 6a, fingers crossed....unfortunately this is probably the best weather they might get!

Will update you tomorrow and let you know how they go.

Mother Si

xx

TIME TO DONATE!

2007-08-10T02:24:00.000-07:00

Ok for those that have not realised yet, we are trying to raise a massive 30, 000 pounds for Mountain Rescue, England Wales and Scotland.

Here is the link for the England and Wales Click here, you do need a credit card to donate.

If you do not want to use a credit card or you find it does not work, then please email me and I can tell you if you have a tin close to you, or I can give you an address to send a cheque.

If you want to donate to Scotland again please fire off an email and I can give you a choice of ways to donate.

You can also come to the party next weekend in Devon, that would amazing as we have so many great things going on and some great guests that it will be a shame if we don´t have a good crowd!

my email address is sam@theorangehouse.net

Thanks so much to those that have already donated, I know the target is a large one but we see this as a long term project and once the book is out and the DVD, the money will continue to come in for a few years yet.

Day 28 NO MORE SCOTLAND!

2007-08-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

Wow, they have done them all in Scotland! I didn´t think they would but what a great feeling now!

45 routes done and only 15 left, 11 in Wales but that includes the hardest one at E4, then only 4 in the South West, and Rich says he could do those in the dark if he had to! Lets have some more dry weather - please!

The boys in the sun at last! on The Bat!

Rich on the treverse pitch, he was not used to his feet sticking!
Mark on the classic photo from the book - Second 5b pitch.

Day 27

2007-08-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

Sat in my favourite internet cafe in Fort William called One World! I started a tab 2 weeks yesterday and came back in today and carried on as normal. Nice guy!

Proud is a word I don´t think I have used yet, Well it´s about bloody time! Boys we are so proud.

They must be so fed up, yet their strength of character is now starting to show, especially as the last 2 days have been “a long slog” to quote Rich. Not once have I heard Mark whinge, Rich a little bit, but then he has got me to moan to. They came back Monday after a 9 mile walk, to find the crag in too much cloud and very, very wet! (no climbing) When they got back to the van they were both wet through to the skin and still they gave us a little smile. When asked are you enjoying it, they have both said “not really”. I just hope that when looking back all the bad stuff will disappear from memory! The boys have wanted to do these climbs for so long it will be such a shame if they can´t remember them, or found that it was not nice climbing, also they have climbed so many of the routes “out of condition” that they will have to come back and do them again when they are dry etc.

Boys now completed Trapeze in the sun shine! not what they are used to at all and they had a great time, Rich said that was one of the best routes so far.

The Boys yesterday after completing Goliath and King Rat in a gale!
Rich leading the Aid pitch on King Rat.

Day 26 - A Long, Cold, Windy Day

2007-08-08T04:36:00.000-07:00

At 6am Sam and Sarah got the guys up, fed anf watered them in time to kick them out of the van and sent them on their way on the long walk into King Rat and Goliath at 8am.

It was 8pm before they got to see them again, (the climbing days are very long in Scotland, for not many routes, the memories of 6 routes in a day in the peak are long behind them!) they were a little wet, very tired and Richard was complaining of frost nip in his fingers......but they did it and two more tough and remote routes in Scotland are in the bag.

So the team packed up and headed over to the west coast to pick off the last two routes in Scotland. The guys are currently on Trapeze and will be walking up to the hut on the Ben tonight to attempt the Bat first thing in the morning.

More stories and pictures to follow,

Mother Si.

Day 25 - Not Really Going to Plan

2007-08-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

Having just spoken to Sam it would appear that today hasnt quite gone to plan.

It started ok with the guys very kindly receiving a lift further up the trail to Loch Dubh from the Balmoral ranger, kindly organised by Colin Munro from Braemar Mountain Rescue Team. The lift saved the guys an additional 4 miles on the walk-in which was hugely welcomed!

However having arrived at the crag, the guys couldnt actually see the routes as the rain came in. So after waiting a while to see if conditions were going to improve, they walked out and have set up base in the campsite in Ballater.

Having checked the weather the team are hopeful they can get King Rat and Goliath done tomorrow before heading over to the West Coast for The Bat and Trapeze on Wednesday and Thursday. We will then return to Wales to clear the route left behind.

Fingers crossed for some better weather.

Mother Si.

This is from a while ago, when the sun was still shining!!

Day 24 last edition

2007-08-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

The boys have now completed 41 routes! wow, we are going to make it!

They climbed The Needle in horrendous conditions and came back looking like drowned rats, "I even had to use my bloody knees to climb today! when we will we climb a route in condition?" said Rich - bless!

Tomorrow still on track for King Rat and Goliath.

Good night everyone Sam :0)

A few days ago Rich climbing with Celebrity Climber Alan Hinkes - Mikey Robertson photo

Day 24

2007-08-05T04:19:00.000-07:00

Sat on the PC outside the bar at The Glenmore Lodge (doesnt open till 5pm! bummer!) Boys sat off at 8am from the ski station to climb The Needle.

We are hoping they will be back about 4ish! We have a new support team member as Simon left us for a wedding. Sarah came up from Wales yesterday and tonight she is cooking tea so I have a night off, yippee! Thanks Sarah nice to have you on board.

Tomorrow hopefully they will climb King Rat and Goliath another long day, followed by a trip back East to get them up The Ben again for The Bat and then if they are still able to walk and climb we want them to climb Trapeze.

Below are a few words that I thought might give you more of an insight to life on the road!

The boys are now into a routine of been told what time to get up, what time to eat, what to eat and more importantly what to climb! They are still really bad at getting out of bed in the mornings, and we can´t blame that on tiredness, as they have been that bad since day one! Rich has resorted to sending Tufa into Marks tent as he seems to be the worst. They are better now with their gear, although they do seem to lose things in the van (how I do not know as its such a small space).

We all left Scotland quite depressed and fed up due to the horrible conditions and I don’t think I helped as they would come back at the end of the day happy to have climbed anything and I would say “you mean you have only done one route?” I thought at the time that the move South was wrong, but now I know it was the right thing to do. They are so much happier now the routes are been ticked off quicker and the weather has been kind in The Peak and in The Lakes.

Also the ´climbing celebrities´ have really helped moral. Lucinda Hughes climbed at Stoney Middleton on Alcasan. Next up Chris Bonington (Sir Chris) climbed Praying Mantis at Goat Crag (what a lovely chap!), then a dash across for Alan Hinkes on Castle Rock. Sat in the pub that night with Stephen Reid I could see the boys faces with a different smile. Gaz Parry on Dream of White Horses in a Force 8 Gale was a laugh, but thanks to all our new friemds.

The climbing photographers have also been amazing, following us around out of their own pocket! Dave Simmonite (Big Dave to me!)coming all the way to Scotland. Keith Sharples hanging around on a rope in the Peak and lovely Mickey Robertson coming all the way to the lakes for the Chris and Alan shots. Thanks so much to you guys (big kiss!)

Simon and I have tried to make life easier for them, and the daily routine for us has been - up first to make them breakfast, bacon butties and real coffee on the good days and cereals on the bad. Sandwiches are made and packed in their bags and they are sent on their way! Simon has followed them on just about every ´´ ´walk in´ to get photos and footage for the documentary. Which leaves me behind to clean Cheryl and believe me she needs lots of cleaning, wet dog and shoe smell – yuch!. I then try to get internet access to update the blog, go shopping for food and cook a meal for when they get back in an evening. What a life! I have never looked after anyone this much in my life! (Mum are you proud?)

The driving has been a bit hard at times, especially the drive from Arron to Carnmore, we left at 8pm after a nice meal on the beach, at about midnight Si had to go and sleep and he left me on the worst roads I have ever driven on! So narrow at times that I had to slow down to 20 miles an hour, so remote I was a bit scared if we broke down and then the bloody deer kept jumping out in front of me! We arrived at 3am, Rich moaned that he had hit the roof a few times whilst trying to sleep up top! I stopped driving and just burst into tears. We looked at the map in the morning and realised that we could have taken another road and saved an hour! Never mind!

Scotland was an amazing place to rush through, and certainly made me want to go back, especially to The Outer Hebrides, I just got a really nice feeling when get off the ferry on The Main Land (silly name for an island!) and I was a little sad to watch all the boys climb “The Old Man”. I have always wanted to climb him, but as Rich says “ it just means we have to come back”. I have also loved our few days in The Lakes, sat in the valleys was a pain as no phone reception, but gave me some time to just chill and read my book.

Day 23 edition 2

2007-08-04T05:57:00.000-07:00

We are now sat having a strong coffee in V12 to keep me awake for the long journey North! Gulp!!

Welsh weather not looking good.

Keep watching this space.

Sam

Day 23

2007-08-04T04:23:00.001-07:00

Sat at Petes Eats AGAIN! deciding what to do, looks like we might be heading North again! I am a bit fed up with all this driving at the moment, but needs must!

Here are a few more photos from the last few days -

Sir Chris with Tufa

The boys after Kipling Groove

More Windy weather!

Day 22

2007-08-03T11:16:00.001-07:00

The boys with todays Celebrity Climber Gaz Parry
Check out Gaz´s blog. They climbed Dream of White Horses in a force 8 gale and rain! Dave Simmo and I got blown around big time, I am still wet and cold although I have been in Petes Eats for the last hour.

This morning the boys completed Gogarth and yesterday ticked off The Big Groove and The Grooves at Lech Du.

Tomorrow not sure what will happen we have to wait for the weather.

My Hero! Force 8 gale winds and driving rain!!! (Dave Simmonite)

Some more pictures

2007-08-02T06:45:00.000-07:00

Well i have left the guys to it for a few days while i head to a friends wedding this weekend. Lets hope they manage to navigate around North Wales without me! At least it means i have the time to upload a few extra pictures!

Mother Si.

Random Road Sign of the Trip!!

The boys set off for trapeeze

Mark looking not quite so keen on climbing in the rain

Rich on the Almscliff Traverse

Mark on the Traverse

Sam cleaning Cheryl

The support team trying to get everything dry!!

Rich fights his way through the trees in Cheedale

Mark on the Cheedale Girdle

Extol

Julian Carradice from the Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team joins the guys on Engineers Slabs

Mark and Julian at the Foot of Engineers on Great Gable

Sir Chris working the bottom pitch of Preying Mantis

Rich gives Chris Bonington some climbing tips while Mike Robertson snaps some piccies for the family album.

Day 20

2007-08-01T22:38:00.000-07:00

We didn't manage Totalitarian ( the Ken Wilson sanctioned replacement for Deer Bield Buttress) yesterday as previously reported. We climbed it this morning braving the midges to reach some superb climbing.

This afternoon we stepped up the pace and managed to get the 2 Gimmer routes climbed just before the rain hit. Thanks to Alan and Stephen who were out on the crag with us and who also climbed The Cracks.

Thanks also to Lakeland climbing legend Dave Birkett who joined us in the ODG and gave us his support. Great effort on your latest E9 Dave!

Just to let everyone know that Chris made short work of the strenuous crux of Praying Mantis, over 43 years after he made the 2nd ascent of the route! He's amazing, great company to climb with and still as fit as ever leading the way on the steep scramble and walkout from Goat Crag.

Mark (via mobile phone en-route to N Wales)

Day 19

2007-07-31T10:22:00.000-07:00

I have just had another message from Sam, the message started 'Everywhere is in the middle of F*****G nowhere and I can't get internet access'!!!!

Update on yesterday - The boys also managed to do Gormenghast yesterday, giving them 4 routes for the day.

Today they climbed

Praying Mantis - With Sir Chris Bonnington
North Crag Eliminate - With Alan Hinkes
Totalitarian
Engineers Slabs

Another 4 routes - Well done Guys

That just leaves The Crack and Kipling Groove on Gimmer tomorrow and that is the lakes ticked off.

They will be spending the Afternoon at Liverpools Awesome Walls. So please go down because they will be shacking the tins.

Thursday the plan is then to head across to the DMM offices and makes a start in North Wales.

Keep up the good work - 'You haven't forgotten about the five in Scotland have you boys?'

Keith

Day 18

2007-07-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

Base Camp has just received a message from Sam apologising for lack of Internet access!!

Yesterday 'Cheryl' left the peak and moved to the Lakes. The boys managed to climb Extol in the afternoon.

Today they have headed up Scafell to climb Central Buttress, Ichabod and Central Pillar.

The plan for tomorrow is Praying Mantis, Totalitarian and North Crag Eliminate.

Sam hopes to have internet access tomorrow to update the blog with pictures etc.

Thanks

Base Camp

Day Sixteen - Final Edition

2007-07-28T14:35:00.001-07:00

Celebration Time

All routes in the Peak and The Pennine completed so that means 25 out of 6o routes done! (happy Jenny x)

We are now sat having a curry and a beer and looking forward to not getting up early in the morning.

This photo was taken whilst Rich was climbing Elder Crack, Geoff Birtles kindly came out to say a few words and Rich did not listen when he told him how to climb it, but whats new!

Thanks to the following supporters todays - Dave Simmonite, Keith Sharples, Neil from Edale Mountain Rescue Team, Ian Smith and Viv, Simon Jacques and anyone else who came to watch

The Supporters - Thanks guys!

All photos below thanks to Simon Jacques

Alcasan

Rich on Elder Crack

The boys on Valkyrie

Lakes tomorrow and you better be praying for more good weather!

Day Sixteen - Edition one

2007-07-28T03:12:00.000-07:00

Sat At Simon Jacques house in Sheffield washing very smelly clothes (yuck!) and updating blog etc etc - "Thanks Simon. Although you did bet that the boys would not do all 60! I will have to make you eat your words! I hope!"

Yesterday went really well, the boys ticked off the following routes :-

Debauchery - Matlock

Main Overhang - Kilnsey
North West Girdle - Armscliff
Debauchery - Matlock
Suicide Wall - Cratcliffe

Today we started early and headed over to Plum Buttress in Chee Dale to climb Sirplum and then walk across to Chee Tor to get up Chee Tor Girdle.

Then across to Stoney Middleton to climb Alacasan with Lucinda Hughes our North Face Climber.

Hopefully then across to Curbar for the classic Elder Crack, next Stanage and Froggatt.

Please come and join us if possible on the crags and we will be having a small drink in The Little John at Hathersage, The Mill Stone Inn and last orders at The Grouse.

If you want to contact me to find out exactly where we are you can call me on my mobile which is 07919 467 049. Or Simon Jacques 07870 819773.

Note - New photo on Centurion day

Day fiveteen 3rd edition

2007-07-27T03:02:00.000-07:00

Friday morning at Kilnsey

Day Fifteen - 2nd edition

2007-07-27T02:46:00.000-07:00

Just called in to see Francis from Sypeland Outdoors Ltd in Pateley Bridge. We have left him with a large pile of Hard Rock T Shirts.
You can call him on 01423 712922 to have one put to one side.
Oh and the boys have just climbed Main Overhang, only took them just over an hour!

Day Fifteen

2007-07-26T22:02:00.000-07:00

Well our stay in the 5 star hotel is over and we are back on the road, only problem is, its still raining!

Early start on Main Overhang and then off to Almscliff.

Here are some photos from the last few days -

Old Man of Hoy, you can just make out the boys!

Reservoir Dogs!

View from the hut at the base of the Ben, cloud had hidden the cliff all morning!

They had just climbed through water falls! not nice!

Centurion photo taken by Lewis

The team back in the van with friend Lou and Scott who watched them climb in the rain!

Rich waiting to go up Trapeze, little did we know they would be back down very soon!

Day Fourteen of The Hard Rock Challenge

2007-07-26T08:16:00.000-07:00

16.17pm - Base Camp has just heard from Cheryl, the forecast in Scotland is not good for the next few days. Therefore the boys have decided to move down to the peaks for the next few days.

Once Base Camp has heard more about the plans I will post them straight away. If anyone wants to join the guys in the Peak, you support will be greatfully appreciated.

END OF DAY UPDATE

Sat at my lovely second cousin Di's house in Shipley, "thanks Chuck" having a sleep in a real bed!

How many people can say they set off to climb in Glen Coe and then had a change of plan and went to Malham instead?

Boys successfully got up Carnage and then went to the pub for a beer and a nice meal.

Tomorrow an early start and off to climb Kilnsey Main Overhang, then Almscliff then across to The Peak to get a few routes in before it gets dark! Then hopefully the rest of The Peak routes on Saturday.

Sunday across to The Lakes - Scotland will be returned to once we have a report back that the routes the boys have left are in slightly better condition.

Please come and support the boys if you can over the next few days.

Day 13 Update

2007-07-26T01:32:00.000-07:00

Just to let you know the guys managed to climb Centurion yesterday, due to their late start they only managed to get one route done and had to come back down. There plan for today is to climb Trapeze this morning and then walk back up to the hut this evening and get an early start on The Bat tomorrow morning.

Centurion

The weather yesterday was awful and they even had snow on The Ben!!! The only dry bit they had was when Rich was belaying under the 5th Pitch roof, Mark was getting pissed on and Rich was staying lovely and dry. Paper, Scissor and Stones worked for that one mate!!!!!

Tickets are selling well for the Hard Rock Fest, so if you want to come and celebrate the boys completion (cause they will complete!!), buy your tickets now!! http://www.hardrockfest.co.uk/

Day Thirteen - unlucky for some!

2007-07-25T02:18:00.000-07:00

Looks like 13 is unlucky for us today as the weather is really terrible.

The boys went up to the hut at the base of Ben Nevis late last night to give them an early start. It started to ran heavily at 5am and foiled their plans. Problem is it looks like it is going to rain here for a few more days so they have made a decision to climb in the rain!

Simon is going up at lunchtime with more food and to get us a progress report, I suppose I will spend today very worried. Wish them luck everyone.

UPDATE!

Boys have started to climb as the sun is out, we told them they are running out of days so they might be down very very late tonight.

Day Twelve

2007-07-24T10:22:00.001-07:00

Ravens Gully completed.

Tomorrow 'The Ben'.

All going to plan at the moment, sun shining and staying on the best campsite in this area.

Invercoe Highland Holidays - they are on the road to Kinlochleven. Ian and Lynn Brown. 01855 811210. www.invercoe.co.uk. Really great site and nice friendy people.

Don't what ever you do stay at the one at the visitor centre, the Camping and Caravaning one! we had a horrible time staying there, they were very rude and even tried to lock my washing in the wash room as we tried to leave.

Day Eleven

2007-07-24T10:01:00.000-07:00

Drove to the ferry port at the Scrabster and went over on the last ferry. Got a great view of 'The Old Man' from the boat. Boys getting excited.

Decided to stay on a campsite and head to the council one in Stromness - the best site I have ever stayed at, it had just the most amazing views out over the water. Sun shining and a guy even turned up the play the bag pipes for us.

Early start in the morning in thick cloud, we left the van on the Main land and took the little ferry across to Hoy, the taxi up to the start of the 3 mile walk in and its now raining!

I setup the camera at the top looking across where we thought 'The Old Man' should be, great day for me! Not!. Boys go down the path and all I hear is voices in the mist!

After about an hour I get woken by Simon on the radio saying "wake up and start filming!", Wow what a view, the mist starts to clear and I can make out 3 little figures on the rock infront of me. Yes 3 as Simon has always wanted to climb this route.

Back to the great campsite and a great day was had by all.

Day Ten

2007-07-22T04:35:00.000-07:00

Well we are on the road again, this time all the way to Hoy! Looking forward to that.

Here is a list of the routes so far to keep you up todate.

Coronation Street
Malbogies
South Ridge Direct
Gob
Dragon
The Scoop
The Great Prow
Swastika
Shibboleth
Yo yo
Carnivore

The boys are a few routes down but the weather is not looking good for the next few days so we will be back in Fort William in a few days. The van is now fixed (at last) so all ok logistically. The boys are really starting to get tired, legs and arms aching! Still up beat though and having fun.

Photos below from last few days

Cheryl before we got her electrics fixed in Inverness.

The Sherpas getting ready to carry the bags! I thought this was supposed to be 'Hard' for them?

Day Nine - edition two

2007-07-21T07:08:00.000-07:00

Check out this Video Link -

http://www.army.mod.uk/news/army_news_current_stories/hard_rock_climb.htm

I so should not have warn that lipstick :0)

Photos below from the last few days.

Day Nine - edition one

2007-07-21T03:24:00.000-07:00

Sat at friends house in Inverness, thanks Kathy and Geoff. I will tell the story about Geoff later in the blog, he is one of the reasons we need to raise money for the mountain rescue teams!

We are here because 'Cheryl' is having the electrics fixed (we hope). The boys left early this morning to climb Yo yo, Trapeze and hopefully Carnivore, Rain is falling here in Inverness!!

Dave Simmonite arrived yesterday and getting some great shots, which hopefully I can get on the blog later tonight when we go back to the pub.

Plan is that we have one more day here and then head to do The Old Man. Hoping that the weather inproves as we come back down to finish off the Scottish leg!

The boys are really tired now, but not moaning at all. Dont know how long that will last though. I am very proud at the moment, but they still have a long way to go.

Be back later tonight to let you know how they got on.

Sam

Day Seven and all on Track!

2007-07-20T05:18:00.000-07:00

I am sat at the pc in the Lovely Claichaig Inn, its just like The Orange House only in Scotland. Thanks to the guys here for helping us out and letting us sell T shirts etc. Only problem is that the machine is dial-up so no photos until tomorrow when we get to Inverness.

The Scoop was completed when the boys got back to the van at 11pm, another long day, they had a roast dinner and then we started driving again. Only this time we only went half an hour as we had found the most amazing beach at the end of the road. A great view in the morning and Simon even went for a swim! Not sure I will put that photo on the blog though!

Ferry taken at 12 back across to Skye and we sent the boys climbing again at 2pm. The Prow was completed in good time and back at the van at 8pm for homemade soup. I am doing really well with all this cooking!!

Another long drive through the night (I am doing all driving by the way as we did not get Simon on the insurance) to arrive at the foot of Etive Slabs for an early start. Boys left the van at 8am and we hope to meet them any minute now to get them across to do 2 more routes today.

I will update the blog again tonight when we get back in here for a pint!

Thanks for all the comments everyone, they are great. Hard Rock Team

Congrats to the boys they completed Swastika and Shibboleth in one day! well done.

We then all had a great night here watching a band, Rich even managed a little dance!

Day Five - The Scoop

2007-07-18T03:07:00.000-07:00

Arrived late at night in strong winds and had to drive up the most scary road! under a large water pipe.

Had an early night, but even so the boys would not get up early in the morning, are they trying to delay me thinks!

We all walked in with every bit of climbing gear the boys have.

No rain and the strong winds have dropped slightly so all looking good, until we try to scramble to the bottom of the climb! too wet and dangerous so the boys rope up! Gues what Rich has the wrong climbing shoes with him (he picked up Marks!) so Simon has a long walk back to get the right ones.

Pitch one at A3 takes Mark 5 hours, then Rich leads pitch two A1 in one hour. They then come back to the van for tea and to refresh ready for tomorrow.

We have booked the ferry out for Thursday so the boys have to do it all today!

Day 5

2007-07-17T14:01:00.000-07:00

Base Camp has not managed to get contact with the intrepid explorers today. We can only assume that this is a good sign and that progress is still going well.

Hopefully they made it onto 'Harris' successfully and therefore have no signal to the outside world.

We should have a report back from them sometime tomorrow so will update everyone as soon as possible.

Hope to see everyone in Glencoe on Saturday to cheer on the guys and sell some Hard Rock T-Shirts!!

Pictures from Day One

2007-07-16T09:49:00.000-07:00

I have just received some fantastic pictures from Dave Simmonite from Day one, which I thought you would all like to see.

The First two are of the guys climbing 'Coronation Street' and the final picture is of Rich climbing 'Malbogies'

A Long Day Three!!!

2007-07-16T00:37:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the lack of post yesterday, I have just had a phone call this morning, saying they had another successful day yesterday. The boys had 15 hours on the hill yesterday and got back to 'Cheryl' at 11pm last night. They managed to get both routes climbed on Carnmore and are now heading across today to Harris to begin The Scoop first thing tomorrow morning.

Hard Rock Team Here - (Monday Lunch Time) we are in Portree stocking up on Mountain Food, Keith I hate you for putting up that photo. All ok although the boys are all a little stiff! Also 'Cheryl' is ill she keeps blowing the main fuse for the electrics! why is life never easy?

Day Two completed!

2007-07-14T11:35:00.000-07:00

We drove from Bristol to Ardrossan in 7 and a half hours! So a late night for Simon and myself, the boys slept on route.

Alarm went off at 6am and a bit of a panic to pack, make sandwiches and film a short piece to camera! 7am ferry crossing and the boys have left me. Good job really as I need to sleep!

Taxi took the boys to Glen Sannox and then a nice walk up following a good path, pity about the rain.

11,000ft in the rain, all slimy and the wind decided to blow strongest as they attempted the crux! The Y cracks! Sun came out as the boys walked off. We then went and had a nice meal by the sea looking out across the water the Arran.

NEXT MOVES!!!

Tonight we are now driving to Poolewe in the far north west of the highlands so the boys can climb Dragon and Gob tomorrow.

Then off the Skye on Monday morning then the Harris crossing in the afternoon.

IMPORTANT - Next weekend we will be in Glen Coe so come and say hi and bring your wallets as you can buy the T-shirts from us. Saturday night in the Clachaig Inn.

First Day Completed!!

2007-07-13T10:59:00.000-07:00

After a great evening in a Cheddar Gorge car park (we managed to have a party in 'Cheryl' with 12 people), the day had finally come to start the challenge.
The day started off well, with the Courier company managing to deliver the Hard Rock Challenge T-shirts which should have arrived two days ago. Thanks to Fluidbranding.com, with all their help getting them to us.

After two hours of radio interviews and filming, the boys finally kitted up and started 'Coronation Street', Rich made great progress on the first pitch, which was not in good condition, the rain then started!!! Mark climbed the second pitch well, with Rich then finally topping out on a wet and slippery route (yes the boys did complete the route in 3 pitches and in a time of 3 hours).

The guys then went on to Avon and also manged to climb Malbogies in under an hour.

That actually means we have managed to complete the first day on schedule (How long will that last for!!) The team are now on their way up to Scotland, with 'Severe Weather Warnings'. So lets just see were we end up tomorrow!!

Thanks to everyone for all the support we received today, especially from Dave and Mikey, and the guys from the Avon and Somerset Rescue Team.

The Hard Rock Challenge T-shirts are now available to buy, and cost £10. All proceeds are going to Mountain Rescue. They are currently being transported in 'Cheryl' around the country, however if you are not going to see them on route, Keith at Rock and Rapid Adventures is also selling them, and you can contact him on keith@rockandrapidadventures.co.uk or 01984 630123.

Only 19 hrs 52 min before we start!

2007-07-12T05:07:00.000-07:00

Base Camp looks like a bomb site!! poor Keith, its a good job he is out at work!

'Cheryl came back from Chelston Motorhomes this morning, all fixed and looking great, they have even fitted a flat screen tv! Shame I will have to re mortgage the house in Spain to pay the bill!. In seriousness though we have to say a big thanks to them as they pulled out all the stops and did all the work we needed.

Rich and Simon have just headed off to Exeter to collect Evolv shoes for Rich (not last minute at all!), I have even given him his credit card so he can treat himself. Lets hope he remembers to ask Cotswolds for a discount.

Before they left though I asked them to help me load up 'Cheryl' they messed around too much so I sent them on their way!

The plan is to leave here at about 7 tonight, after a meal, and head up to Chedder to spend the night at the foot of the crag, I could even stay in bed and watch the boys climb!

I will update later this afternoon if anything else exciting happens - watch this space.

Only 1 day 13 hrs 13 mins before we start!

2007-07-11T11:46:00.000-07:00

Last night we had our first team meeting at The Mill Adventure Centre, where we are holding our end of Challenge party- Hard Rock Fest - in August.

The first parcel had arrived from North Face and the boys had fun trying on the t-shirts and first layers. Only one problem no water proof jacket for me, and I think the way the weather is looking I might need one!

We have been told that The Army Press people are coming along to Chedder to film the start, and hopefully the local TV will also turn up, I suppose it depends what else is happening in the South West on Friday morning.

Today was a bit of a rest day, Rich and I went shopping in Taunton, mostly for 'Mountain Food', but could not resist the special offer on cheap DVDs, so bought 13 new movies just in case we have to spend hours waiting for the rain to stop! Vertical Limit should keep us all laughing.

David Simmonite has also confirmed that he is coming down on Friday to take photos, I am sure I also heard that he has arranged for some of 'The North Face Team' to come and join us, how many people can we fit in our small motorhome?

Off out now for a meal with friends in a 'real English pub' cant wait.

Meeting now resumed at the Rock Inn, Waterrow nr Taunton.

Simon, Rich, Sam, Keith, Hazel, Jon, Caffrey and Tufu.

Only 3 days to go!

2007-07-10T07:36:00.000-07:00

"Cheryl" is now based at Chelston Motorhomes in Wellington. We should have dropped her off yesterday, but the journey from London took longer than we thought!

She is having a new shower fitted and they better make the fridge switch over to gas or we are in trouble.

The Hard Rock Team has now set up "Base Camp" in the kitchen belonging to Keith from Rock and Rapid Adventures. So whilst he is out at work teaching kids to abseil we have a table full of laptops, printers, mobiles phones and loads and loads of maps!

Keith is the guy behind The Hard Rock Festival. This is our end of challenge party on the 18th and 19th August. The Mill Climbing Centre are holding an exciting weekend of activities, talks, Competitions etc.

Check out the website for more details.
www.hardrockfest.co.uk

Only 4 Days to go!

We arrived in the UK late last night after a bit of an epic. We turned up at the ferry port in Boulogne just before midnight to be told that their boats (horrible Speed Ferries) don´t take motorhomes as we are too wide! Even though they took my booking! GREAT!. We have about 5 hours to get Tufa across the channel before we have to find another vet, pay more money and waste more time.

We decide to take a risk and drive fast to Dunkirk (whilst on the phone to my sister to get the ferry timetable for Norfolk Line). We arrive and rush to the ticket desk and buy a ticket for the next crossing! Brill we are so lucky - NOT! the girl who issued the ticket forgot to put Tufa on, so we had to go all the way back around and missed the boat. A few hours later we are finally sat crossing the channel, tired but on our way!

We arrive in London at 4.30am having already done 3,000 miles!

Sitting at my sisters lovely apartment on the Thames we should be getting worried, but not yet, the sunshine is a nice surprise. Will it last thought?

Thanks to Outside shop in Reading, Dan helped Rich to get the right size of Evolv climbing shoes. Now we need to get down to Taunton to set up "Base Camp".

Only 2 weeks to go!

2007-06-30T02:58:00.000-07:00

Well in 2 weeks time we will be on the road, which road we don´t know as the rain is causing us some worries!

The van came back yesterday from the signwriters, -Thanks Chris and Teresa she looks great!

Scottish Mountain Rescue donations will soon be able to be made through - Justgiving.com

The Home page on the main website will be updated over the next few days.

The weather is still causing concern, when will it stop raining seems to be all we are saying at the moment.

Simon has now finished plotting all the routes etc and the total miles in the UK to drive is just under 3,000. But, that depends how many times we have to drive up and down to places due to the weather!

We leave Spain in only 3 days time so things are starting to be packed, we will be taking a small break with friends who live in the South of France. Lets hope we can relax and pray for it to stop raining in Great Britain.

Only three weeks to go!!!

2007-06-23T01:28:00.001-07:00

Thats right three weeks and we will be on the road.

The British weather is causing concern at the moment, but lets hope that all the rain falls NOW and we are lucky.

We have a new Team Member on board - Simon Fisher.

Simon has taken the role of Logistics Manager and having planned our previous trips to the Alps and Russia he really is "The" man for the job! Si has spent the last week plotting the routes, carparks, even service stations with wifi into his laptop.

We should be able to publicise some sort of itinery in 2 weeks time so people can start to plan when and where to meet us.

WATCH THIS SPACE!

Only 5 Weeks to go!

2007-06-07T09:10:00.000-07:00

We only have 5 weeks to go and things are starting to get a bit frantic in the Hard Rock Office! (Sun shining outside making it hard to stay on the PC and phone all Day).

We are starting to think hard about the schedule for these 60 climbs. The only fixed thing at the moment is the start date and place - Chedder Gorge.

Then it will be the weather that decides which area we go to next!

It would make sense to go North and tick off the routes as we go, but life is never that easy - Don´t forget the bird bans in place and the ferry crossings needed at the busiest time of the year - we are in for a fun time!

If the weather has been kind then at the moment this is the plan.

Chedder - North Wales - Lakes - Scotland mainland - Old man of Hoy - Scotland main land - Skye - Isle of Harris - Scotland mainland - Arran - Yorkshire - North Wales - Peak District - South West.

Hard Rock goes Public!

2007-03-30T04:29:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a few more people....

Look at this great design..........

Duncan Bourne for designing a T -Shirt which you will be able to buy soon! - www.duncanbourne.co.uk

UKClimbing.com published a news item this week and the support we have had from the climbing public is very welcome. A few special mentions need to go to the list below.

Mike Robertson for sending photos to use on the web and blog site - www.wildartproductions.com

Stephen Reid for making the first large pledge - www.needlesports.com

Mike Robertson - Moonraker

We are also in discussions with a few people to make sure that this challenge is caught on film, something which I think has to be done, although I have been told that I could end up as the Sharon Osbourne of the climbing world!! oh dear what have I started?

Lastest News! March

2007-03-02T04:21:00.000-08:00

Start Date confirmed Friday the 13th July.

Meet Cheryl - she is going to be our transport, home and office for the challenge! She will be sign written very soon with the Main Sponsors so she will be very easy to spot when we are on the road.

I had a conversation this week with Hugh Cornwell, Director of Chedder Gorge and Caves and he has given us the go ahead to climb Coronation Street. Normally no climbing is allowed in July and August. So thanks Hugh and also Martin Crocker for putting in a good word.

The only condition placed on us is to climb on a Friday, so that seems like a good place to start this challenge.

I am also happy to report that DMM Climb now work later! have confirmed as our main equipment sponsor and UKClimbing.com are on board as the exclusive online news reporters.

Hard Rock - Now part of the AMA 50

2007-02-13T12:02:00.000-08:00

The Hard Rock Challenge is now officially part of the Army Mountaineering Association´s (AMA) 50th Anniversary celebrations.

The AMA, formed in 1957 has been a key player in the development of mountaineering within the armed services. Mountaineering skills are a vital component in warfare and have been put to good use in the Falkland Islands, the Balkans, and the mountains of Afghanistan. The armed forces benefit hugely from allowing their men and women to face the challenge of the mountains and the AMA has a central role in developing these mountaineers.

2007 is the AMA’s 50th Anniversary and major expeditions are planned to celebrate this milestone. This includes a team in the Himalayas attempting Shisha Pangma (13th highest mountain in the world), expeditions to Greenland, Morocco, and the Canadian NW territories and now in the UK this summer - Hard Rock Challenge.

Mountain Rescue Fund Raising

2007-01-26T08:59:00.000-08:00

Mountains by their very nature involve some element of risk and there will always be those who are caught unawares. I've climbed the world over and seen rescue services swing into action, in such cases some of those rescuers have been paid professionals, others as is the case with our own Mountain Rescue Service, are unpaid volunteers. They go out in all weathers in the service of all who enjoy the hills and high places. The British teams are without doubt the best in the world and I hope you will do all you can to support them in their work. Chris Bonington, C.B.E

Hard Rock Challenge will attempt to raise over 30,000 GBP and the money will be split between Mountain Rescue England and Wales and Scottish Mountain Rescue.

Click on the logo of choice to make your donation. (we are awaiting permission to use Scotland MR Logo)

If you prefer to support us in another way then please email us on hardrockchallenge@gmail.com

Contacts

2007-01-26T02:19:00.000-08:00

One thing I love about a new project is the contacts I can make and this attempt should allow me to speak to some really interesting people. My first phone call had to be to Ken Wilson himself just to let him know what we are up to, and also to pick his brains about who had already done it and if anyone had been mad enough to attempt it all in one go.

I called Geoff Birtles first who I have met a few times and told him our news, he chuckled. After chatting for a bit about his classic photo in the book (page 188) on ´Right Unconquerable` he passed on Kens number and wished me good luck.

After sending more emails and faffing about I picked up the phone and dialed Kens number.

Guess what? he chuckled too. I think we spoke for about an hour and he was really nice, helpful and supportive. He gave me a long list of people to call, mostly the first ascentists and also Stephen Reid from Needlesports who is one of only 2 known people that have completed all the routes.

The chat turned to cricket and then moved onto bolted climbing and how it was a scourge on the sport, I knew it was time to say "thanks and goodnight".

Stephen Reid was really helpful and after picking his brains a little bit I left it that the boys can call him nearer the time for any beta. The link above is to the main Needlesports website and then go to Features down the left hand side.

I then decided to post my first thread on the UKClimbing forum the font of all knowledge and home for many a sad climber. My first post was asking about the route´ The Scoop` on Harris, I think I was asked " you ticking Hard Rock then" within the first 10 mins. You cant pull the wool over these guys eyes.

The Scoop at Sron Ulladal on the beautiful island of Harris was mentioned as having a locked gate so contact was needed to get more information. I had a really helpful email from the Land Manager Duncan MacPherson who has offered much needed help. The Island has a great website, take a look at some of the stunny scenery. I wish we had longer to explore, but as Rich rightly says " at least we will know where we want to go back to!" North Harris Trust .

Another problem was going to be Cheddar Gorge and we need to be able to climb Coronation Street. Access issues are listed here on the new BMC climbing crag site. Basically we/you can not climb in the Gorge during July and August or Bank Holidays.

So my first port of call was Martin Crocker. I fired off an email and Martin was quick to reply and arranged a meeting with Hugh Cornwell of Cheddar Caves & Gorge. When we asked for his consent to climb his reply was very encouraging. The conditions are that we are to climb on a Friday as that is the least busy day during school holidays. Also they need maximum notice which means we may have a start date and place - FRIDAY the 13th!

The Team

2007-01-25T06:16:00.000-08:00

Tufa The most important team member is a 6 year old half Husky, half German Shepherd. At present she is the mascot for the Spanish under 15 Cricket Team (yes cricket is played in Spain) and she loves to travel.

Even though she only has 3 legs (hit by a 4x4 a few years ago) she does like to chase the sheep in North Wales and the rabbits in France.

She will be fitted with a special harness for this adventure so she can help to carry water for the boys.

Rich Mayfield “I first read the full list of Hard Rock routes over 20 years ago. To try and climb them all in one trip is possibly the greatest climbing adventure in Britain that I can think of!

Rich was born in North Wales in the late 60s and spent much of his youth climbing and walking in the Welsh hills. After distinguished service in the Army, he relocated to Spain 5 years ago where he works as a full-time climbing instructor. It was, he says 'best move I ever made'.

Rich joined the Army shortly after leaving school in 1986, and lived in West Germany for six years, before passing the All Arms Commando Course and moving to Plymouth to serve with 3 Commando. He worked at the Army Mountain Training Centre in the Harz Mountains of West Germany, and was an instructor on many expeditions and adventurous training programs.

In 1994 he was invited to participant in the infamous British Army Expedition to Borneo, to descend the North side of Mt Kinabalu via an area known as “Low’s Gully”. The expedition was a spectacular debacle; no communications, poor weather, inappropriate planning, training and equipment, lead to the disintegration of the expedition. Rich was one of the few to facilitate his own escape, but only after an eight day period with no food. His escape initiated the largest ever peacetime mountain rescue operation which involved over one thousand British and Malayan military personnel in a race against time to find the remaining members of the expedition.

The aftermath of this expedition was acrimonious but Rich was exonerated received a formal commendation for bravery. With a successful book about the expedition and his escape from the jungle under this belt Rich has since left the Army and concentrated on a career in the outdoor industry.

He has been a qualified climbing instructor since 1987 and his personal climbing experience is vast which takes in his early beginnings in Wales, then to Germany and the South West of England. His most recent travels have taken him to climb in Peru, Bolivia, Norway, Morocco, Tunisia, Russia, USA, Oman and closer to home in the French Alps and the Spanish Pyrenees.

Rich remains an active member of the Army Mountaineering Association and still regularly instructs and coaches members of the British Armed Forces. He ownes and runs The Orange House on the Costa Blanca, accommodation and guiding experts.

Mark Stevenson

“Despite spending 12 years climbing throughout Britain there are still dozens of the most amazing climbs in remote locations I’ve never even visited. Climbing these 60 routes will be like compressing a lifetime of climbing into one summer. Given the British weather, everyone seems to think we’d be crazy to consider even trying it over 3 months let alone 5 weeks! Whatever happens this is going to be an adventure...”

Mark was born in Dundee in Scotland in the mid 1970s. As a youth he spent his summers exploring the Scottish Highlands as member of the local Scout troop. At University he progressed from hill walking onto rock climbing and mountaineering and has been climbing mountains, cliffs, outcrops, boulders and frozen waterfalls ever since.

A capable scholar, Mark studied electronic engineering at Cambridge University before being tempted by the active lifestyle of an Officer in the British Army. After initial officer training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, he joined the Corps of Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers and was awarded the DEME(A) Sword as the best officer of his intake.

Mark has served in both the UK and Germany and has completed operational tours in both Kosovo and Northern Ireland. He currently holds the rank of Captain and is employed as a specialist aircraft engineering officer with the Apache Attack Helicopter Project Team.

In 1998, Mark made the first British ascents of two 6000metre peaks in the remote Pamir Mountains of Kyrgyzstan. Since then, as an active member of the Army Mountaineering Association he has instructed on numerous expeditions worldwide and in 2002 led a major Army climbing expedition to the USA. In 2006 he was part of the successful British Services Big Wall expedition to Yosemite. He is currently short listed to participate in the next British Services’ Expedition to the Himalayas in 2008 which will attempt the taxing South East Ridge of Makalu, the world’s 5th highest mountain.

For the last four years Mark has been ranked as one of the top 3 sport climbers within the entire Armed Forces and has regularly represented the British Army in national and international indoor climbing competitions.

Mark has been a qualified climbing instructor for 9 years and has still not lost his enthusiasm for introducing new participants to rock climbing or for visiting and climbing in new areas.
Mark Stevenson is still in the Army and has been climbing for over tens years, based in the South must be hard for this lad from Scotland. He must also be the only person to be airlifted from The Roaches after taking a 4ft fall.

Sam Mayfield

"I love to spend the summers in the UK, catching up with friends and chilling out, I have a funny feeling this summer will not be all that relaxing"

Born in Barnsley and living on the edge of The Peak for most of her life, Sam was actually introduced to climbing late in life when she met and fell in love with Rich after she "retired" to the Costa Blanca with her boys. Now hooked on climbing and running The Orange House with Rich her time is not her own.

The beginning.

2007-01-23T11:12:00.000-08:00

Mark came over to visit this weekend (22 Jan 2007) and sort of messed up our plans for the summer holidays.

He said on arrival "I have a bit of an idea that I want to run past you. How do you fancy climbing all the routes in Hard Rock in one go?" I think Rich laughed but for some reason I liked the idea. The two of them went off climbing and I sat in the sun with my laptop and started to list the routes with grades, walk in times, heights etc. When they returned I took great pleasure in telling them. " 22.000 ft of climbing which should take approx 150 hours, 180 miles of walk in. Over 3000 miles of driving (all done by me), but I think you (we) can it"

The book documents 60 of the most spectacular and adventurous rock climbs to be found anywhere in the British Isles. Sir Chris Bonington and Hamish MacInnes head a formidable cast of professional and talented climbs who have contributed by writing essays, giving an inspirational account of the climbers and climbs.

This is more than just a book of climbs, it’s a unique journey to the steepest, most exposed and wild places the British Isles has to offer.

http://www.needlesports.com/hardrock/hardrock.htm- Derek Walker has written a great appreciation of the book on the above website.

Our boys both have the third edition Rich was only 6 when the book was first published and Mark was only a twinkle in his mums eye.

So why do we do want to do it then?

Mark - " I have always wanted to tick all the routes in the book and just never imagined that I would get the chance to do them all in one go.

Rich - "I’ve owned a copy of this book since the mid eighties, and periodically been referring to it ever since. One thing strikes me, every time I’ve completed one of these routes, I`ve been filled with a sense of achievement that can only come from an adventure where the out come is uncertain, and the hardship real".