YMC EXPEDITION 2021

At last nights Committee meeting it was agreed that the Club should plan and launch an overseas mountain based “expedition” in 2021 to a suitably “exotic” or unusual region.
• AIM. Mountaineer, climb, explore, engage in mountain based activities in a region that Club Members might or could not do without being a part of an organised expedition.
• HIGH LEVEL OBJECTIVES:
o As inclusive as possible.
o Skills and personal development.
o Expedition experience development.
o Growth of knowledge about a less well known region.
o Club profile.
o Development of our sport.

• DETAILED OBJECTIVES. Can be worked up when the region to be visited is decided but could include:
o Exploring a lesser known region.
o Guidebook development/checking.
o New routes or first ascents.
o Repeat ascents or climbs (or walking exploration) where they have not been well travelled, frequented or documented.
o Linking with in-country clubs or enthusiasts.

• PARAMETERS. Some simple parameters will help in area selection.
o Achievable. We don’t need to over-reach to still remain adventurous.
o Affordable. There is no need to match Everest-like costs.
o Inclusive. Within competencies and accepting that members are responsible for themselves there is no reason why age, sex, preference for activity (obviously it must be mountain/climbing based) should be excluded. Some may be able to come and assist with the import support tasks.
o COMMITMENT. There cannot be any passive members in an expedition team from planning through to realisation.
o Time. We have to be realistic. Most people have jobs and a family. The actual expedition may only be 2 to 3 weeks in duration including travel.

• TIMELINE. From experience 2+ years is just sufficient to prepare an expedition, subject to the venue and detailed objectives. Issues to be addressed include:

o Visas and legals eg permits.
o Training.
o Maps and route information.
o General regional intelligence gathering.
o In country support eg guides and administration.
o Equipment prep.
o Funding.

• at first this can seem daunting but in reality we will be following in others footsteps. Regions that spring to mind include:
o Central Asia – One of the “stans”
o North Africa – Morocco
o North America – Canada
o Iran
• A great start will be to research the BMC trip and expedition report database plus other sources such as the Alpine Club and UK Climbing.

If you are interested in being a part of this exciting project then let myself or any of the committee members know.

John