Multi-activity Expedition ‘Rock Ape 2003’- Bavaria, July 2003

Royal Marines Reserve, City of London

The aim of the expedition was to provide stimulating, exciting and educational adventurous training for as many ranks as possible. An advance party led by CSgt Dave Hill and Capt Paul Clark developed a programme of activities, the principal one focussing on a two day ascent of the Zugspitze which, at (2964m), is Germany’s highest peak.

On arrival on site, following an arduous 18 hour coach journey, the party formed into two groups. The first day was fiercely hot, and was spent touring the local hills on mountain bikes hired from the nearby American Forces Recreational Centre. Some of the more daring took their bikes on a cable car to experience the white knuckle rides back to the town. Of note, Mne Tommo Thomson, having arrived safely back from the Gulf, attempted to scar himself permanently by forgetting that the brake levers on continental are reversed.

The next two days were spent climbing the Zugspitze continental style unencumbered for once by operational equipment. The culture of mountain huts; simple meals and entertainment from the hut guardians was greatly appreciated. Overnighting on the mountain, the second day began with an early breakfast and start so that the summit could be achieved before the sun reached its zenith. After a steep five hour climb through the bleached rock of the out-of-season ski runs and a short ridge section, everyone reached the top – although not without feeling the effects of the heat and altitude! After an hour enjoying the magnificent views, the party descended to Lake Eibsee where everyone was grateful for a well earned dip.

The next day was spent rock climbing at the Bichl climbing area near Bad Tolts. The size of the groups allowed for a split between climbing and support activities. Those with the ability and inclination were introduced to lead climbing on bolted routes, under the direct supervision of CSgt Hill and WO2 Steve Phillips; everyone made good progress completing a number of top roped routes, whilst a number of the party took turns to lead. This proved to be a challenging area for most, as these crags seemed to have a complete absence of "thank god" holds. Smearing technique and "disco-leg" was the order of the day.

The morning of the final day was spent white water rafting the Tyrol in Austria. The raft instructors soon had the opportunity to practice capsize and man overboard drills as Royal undertook raft to raft boarding. The afternoon was spent at the raft centre challenging all comers (usually Australians) to volleyball in which Royal emerged consistently victorious, helped no doubt by the professional sledging offered by CSgt Hill and his wide repertoire of farm yard noises. That evening, a fantastic B-B-Q concluded an outstanding week. All those participating enjoyed themselves tremendously and benefited from the experience. The party was very appreciative of the work put in by all involved in the planning and execution of the expedition and the support given by the various organisations, including the Ulysses Trust, that made it possible.

        Recruit Charles Blanch RMR