Braving the wintry conditions of the Welsh mountains; members of 19 Squadron and 78 Squadron took to the Snowdonia ranges for a week of well-planned yet arduous Adventurous Training.
After departing from RAF Boulmer, RAF Scampton and RAF(U) Swanwick; the two Squadron personnel met at Betws-y-Coed around midday ready to tackle their first challenge – Moel Siabod, 827 meters (2,861ft) of gnarly rocks and inclines.
Weather was wet and cold and visibility was poor and this was a tough climb – Was the rest of the week to be this tough?
After settling into the Joint Service Mountain Training Centre (JSMTC) Indefatigable in Llanfairpwllgwyngyll (the Longest Place name in Europe!) personnel enjoyed a Fish and Chip dinner prior to some team building with a few libations. Squadron Leader Leach and Flight Lieutenant Newton demonstrated some questionable music taste!
The following day the team set off to conquer Moel Hebog – a 782m (2,565 ft) nestled in the picturesque village of Beddgelert. Visibility proved to be better throughout the day resulting in some decent views but the Gortex, hats and gloves were still tested to their max. The descent took us though the stunning Bedgellert Forest although the track was tough on tired legs and wet feet.
Following a delicious dinner and hot shower in the JSMTC, all personnel succumbed to the weariness of the previous two days and collapsed into a deep slumber. The Wednesday saw a team split – One team went Rock Climbing at Beacon Climbing Centre whilst the other team braved the elements once more and took on the lesser 698m (2,290ft) mountain starting at Rhyd Ddu. After being caught in a few hail showers the walkers warmed up in the famous Petes East in Caernarfon whilst taking in a pint of tea and the vast mountaineering photography it has to offer
