We completed our first formal climbing training yesterday by climbing the entire length
of the Dri Hornli (" the Three Horns") which is an arete that has three
peaks and rises and falls some 600 feet above the Almagellerhutte.
We were split into 4 teams and all successfully completed the task over about 4 hours. There were a few hairy moments; the climbing was varied and at times
challenging but fortunately it is more difficult than that we will
encounter on the Matterhorn.
Of particular note were a couple of manoeuvres around blind corners over
some lengthy drops, where some of the team found their arms could have
been longer.
Equally, a some exposed slabs which had to be ascended to
reach the second summit set hearts fluttering and some unusual
commentary which those observing assumed was Swiss German.
We also had to abseil down from one of the Three Horns which certainly raised a few eyebrows.
We got back to the hut mid afternoon and enjoyed an early dinner before
the attempt at our first 4,000 meter peak - the Weissmeis.
Fortunately, the bunk room was quieter and we had it to ourselves.
Equally, the team was better behaved - presumably a combination of
exhaustion and fear of what has yet to come.
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