Friday 9 – Sunday 11 August 2024

The essence of caving by Rosie Fletcher 11.08.24
(Following a trip down ANUSC)

Caving, the opposite to gaining elevation on the way up to bagging a Munro. A sport with no goal in sight.
Caving, the sport requiring kit which could resemble an extreme gardening championship. The washing machine, nowhere in sight.
Caving, where time stands still and the group could be mistaken for partaking in a Mario Karts race. Albeit, no rules in sight.
Caving, where maps prove arbitrary, with navigation taking a more trial and error approach. No compass in sight.
Caving, where squeezing through holes and a small crack in a rock feels like what being born must be like. However, no mothers in sight.
Caving, what’s not to like; rolling, sliding and wallowing, simply in mud. Yet no pigs in sight.
Caving. Oh hold on what’s that in sight, cave rescue; it appears to be light?

With thanks to Andrew Brooks for his generosity in sharing his expertise, skills and kit. There is nothing more reassuring while descending into a cave than being aware that cave rescue are with you!

A special thanks to Goodfellow & Stevens for the bridie which powered me through the cave.

To all my fellow cavers, in particular Andrej for being so competent.

I genuinely had one of the top 5 days of my life… and I think on my final meet with the club I have realised I have been going the wrong way on the earth!

• Report by Rosie Fletcher