Reds summit Ben Stack in style

Blues rock climb and sea kayak

The reds were out at our wild mountain base camp beside the old stone stable at Lone last night, and woke ready for breakfast in the field kitchen, before setting off in teams for the accent of Ben Stack. It is not designed to be an easy day, a physical challenge for some, a mental challenge for others. Apart from a stiff breeze the weather could’t have been much better for their summit bids and the team covered the ground, and the 720m of height gain faster than usual,l reaching the top at midday. They had beautiful views out across the west coast toward the Hebrides.

We usually offer a swim on return from the mountain, for those who are particularly keen, and expect an uptake of about 25%. Others opt just to shower and change before team reviews. Not so Hornsby House. Pretty much all the reds went in and swam out to the raft in the middle of the loch to jump and &lsquo:salmon dive’ into the water. A solid performance!

Meanwhile all this will await the Blues tomorrow, as they head out to Lone base camp after supper this evening. Their day had been a mix of rock climbing for some, sea kayaking for others, and an element of survival skills in preparation for the island on Wednesday. It was raining a little when they left, which only serves to sharpen the need for a little self-reliance and positive thinking.

Forecast looks dry but breezy tomorrow. All are well and making the very most of the opportunities available to them here. More news over the next few days.