Climbing for a Cause: Team Horizons Conquers Munros to Support WaterAid

Michael Keenan and three teammates took on Bhein Glas and Ben Lawers to support WaterAid – a day of grit, laughter, and team spirit. Here’s their intrepid journey, as told by Michael…

After two thwarted attempts to conquer Bhein Glas and Ben Lawers due to high winds and snow, we finally set out on Saturday, October 26th, 2024. With winter nipping at our heels and conditions growing more treacherous by the day, we seized a rare weather window nestled between two fronts, just after the wrath of Storm Ashley, the first storm of the 24/25 winter season.

We gathered in the car park, buzzing with excitement and perhaps a touch of nervousness. The weather was clear, the sunrise painted the sky in autumn hues, and the air was filled with the scent of adventure (and maybe a hint of breakfast burritos). As we set off, the initial stretch was a gentle warm-up, perfect for shaking off the cobwebs and the effects of one too many all-inclusive buffets. Layers were shed as the team acclimatised, revealing a variety of questionable t-shirt slogans.

Passing through the deer gate, we faced our first real ascent. The climb was steep, and we took several half-minute breathers, using the breaks to admire the stunning views and to question our life choices that morning. The halfway point to Bhein Glas brought a sudden change in weather, with mist rolling in and temperatures dropping faster than a lead balloon. Layers were hastily put back on, and gloves and hats made their debut.

As we climbed higher, the mist thickened, reducing visibility to about 50 meters – just enough to keep us guessing about the summit’s location. The wind picked up, thankfully pushing us from behind, which we jokingly referred to as “nature’s turbo boost.” False summits played tricks on our minds, each one greeted with a mix of hope and exasperation.

Despite the challenges, our spirits remained high, buoyed by camaraderie and the occasional joke about who would be the first to the top. We pressed on, determined to reach the top and claim victory over the elements.

After conquering Bhein Glas, which felt like the longest ascent ever when you can’t see the summit, we were more galvanised than ever to tackle Ben Lawers. A much-needed pit stop and a quick safety briefing about the next ridge and wind conditions had everyone ready for the next leg. The only downhill part of the ascent was met with spontaneous bursts of song and renewed energy. “Not far now!” became the rallying cry.

As the wind picked up and the mist thickened, the well-trodden path, along with trusty Google and Strava, kept us on track. McKenzie, leading the charge, prowled the terrain like a seasoned explorer. Despite a few more false summits trying to play tricks on our minds, our spirits remained high. We pushed through the increasing niggles in our calves and knees, driven by the knowledge that the summit was out there, even if we couldn’t see it.

The camaraderie, the random stories, and the shared determination made every step worth it. We were on a roll, and nothing could dampen our spirits – not even the elusive summit hiding in the mist. We knew we were close, and that was all the motivation we needed to keep going.

The final ascent was a grueling slog, but a friendly rivalry between Greg and McKenzie injected some much-needed energy into the team. Greg, channeling his inner whippet, surged ahead to claim victory, leaving McKenzie in his dust. The relief at reaching the summit was palpable. Snacks were devoured, photos were snapped, and everyone huddled together to escape the biting wind chill.

The thought of a hot soak in the tub and a Halloween party later that evening spurred us on during the descent. We wisely chose the right path down to the deer gate, avoiding the need to tackle Bhein Glas again – there’s only so much team spirit can endure before it crumbles! The path was a gentle, gradual descent, with a few afternoon hikers opting to skip Bhein Glas and head straight for Ben Lawers. As we descended, the weather improved, and the views opened up, rewarding our efforts.

Back in the car park, there was a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie. Congratulations were exchanged, and it seemed like a few more hill walkers might have been born that day (though they’d start with baby steps).

Not forgetting Angus Nisbet – another dedicated member of our intrepid team who earlier this year took on another munro, setting the stage for our recent adventure and inspiring us all along the way.

In the end, through grit, camaraderie and plenty of laughs, we raised over £1,200 for WaterAid – every step and every summit was worth it. Here’s to more unforgettable adventures!

Well done, Team Unicornios Horizonte!