Well, here we are again. Another year, another injury. To be honest, 2024 was a bit of a shit-fest. I was either recovering from or suffering from surgery, injury or niggles. From a tibial osteotomy, dislocated shoulder, fractured scaphoid, trapped nerves and finally bruised or cracked ribs. (I’ve didn’t have the last one checked out as I’m sure I’ve used up my goodwill in the local A&E!) It’s been an interesting 12 months.
So not a lot of climbing was done. Plus, the weather didn’t always want to play game, either too hot (Slovenia) or too wet (England). I still managed to check out some new crags though and hope to continue my exploration of some of our more ‘esoteric’ crags in 2025. I do like an out of the way pile of choss!
2024 also saw me start this website, Climbwild.shop. The learning curve has been steep but amongst the frustration it’s also been fun and I will continue to try and bring lesser known brands such as Kouba and Ocun to the attention of British climbers. These brands are often overlooked or subject to brand snobbery as we are all conditioned by the advertising of the bigger brands. Not that I’m knocking them. I have used them and continue to do so but I’ve now replaced my rack with Kouba Flex and Permon cams and Kouba Alu nuts and in the process of switching out my carabiners and quickdraws for Ocun. I’ll let you know how I get on.
So, onwards! Plans this year are for more climbing in the Lakes, a trip to Scotland to climb at Reiff sea cliffs, a trip to the Peak to get back onto gritstone and another trip to Yorkshire to clip some bolts. I might even overcome my distaste of Northumberland Sandstone and do a route or two. (don’t hold your breath) There are also tentative plans for a trip to warmer climes later in the year.
All assuming I don’t fall over in the bath again!
Happy New Year and Happy Climbing!