Lost Six Hill Walkers

Five Made It

Mike just returned from leading his third hill walk for our Club. Recall that it rained on the first hill walk he led. The second hill walk he led was, according to long time Club members, the rainiest and wettest in memory (it poured). Well, the third hill walk he lead has now distinguished itself in another way. The word "ignominious" comes to mind.

He lost six hill walkers; he started the hill walk with eleven and finished with only five (see photo). The number one rule when leading hill walks is to return with the same number that you started with. Apparently, returning with six fewer hill walker set a new record for the Club.

The hill walk he led was one of the more difficult routes with considerable elevation gain and difficult trails; shade was no where to be found. And, it just so happened to occur on the hottest day of the year here. Consequently, people struggled. Fortunately, Mike had planned "bail out points" where hill walkers could leave the route and catch a bus back. So, at one point two people left; Mike insisted that no one leave alone; had to be in pairs. Then, a bit later, the second pair left. Then the third pair. After all, it was a difficult walk. All who left were required to let Mike know when they made it out safely. All who remained were rewarded with a nice pub stop (was their any doubt).