Forrest Templeton on the crux pitch of Moon Ice Jazz (VI,7) in Glen Clova’s Winter Corrie. The route is adjacent to Sun Rock Blues and was first climbed by Henning Wackerhage, Adam Henly and Robbie Miller in January 2010. (Photo Brian Duthie)
On February 21, Brian Duthie and Forrest Templeton visited Winter Corrie in Glen Clova and made the second ascent of Moon Ice Jazz (VI,7).
“The forecast for Sunday suggested frozen terrain down to 400m,” Brian explained. “So Forrest and I decided to go into Winter Corrie and see if Moon Ice Jazz was in condition. From the corrie floor it looked like it was in decent nick so we decided to give it a go – my first winter route of the season!
I know that Henning has been keen for someone to repeat his line and confirm the grade. As he describes in his blog the crux pitch is steeper than it looks, gear hard won and difficult to place. On the day we thought it was worth VI, 6.”
Well done Forrest and Brian! Lots of entertaining routes in Winter Corrie and esp. Corrie Farchal which was rediscovered by Simon. Corrie Farchal is higher, often in conditions, the rock is generally more helpful (ie protectable) than Winter Corrie and there are several good routes. Also the walk in is quicker (park as for the summer climbs, walk over the meadows and bridge and then straight up. It’s an honour to follow the great footsteps of Doug Lang, Graeme Hunter and others. I think new topos for both corries are needed!