Sunday, December 20, 2009

Trip to Ecuador


Kurt Diemberger and Martin Torresquintero are heading out to Ecuador on January 6, 2010. They are offering a super good deal on air travel (under $400 on LAN RT from JFK) and still have space on the Land Cruiser for another couple of climbers. They plan to shoot mountain photo and video, hang out in Papapllacta and climb Antisana.

For more information:

Martin Torresquintero
MT Mountain Guiding
PO Box 2986
New Haven CT 06513-3925 USA
mtclimbs@snet.net
(203)752-1191

Adirondack Winter Outing 2010

Adirondack Winter Outing: January 22-24, 2010, Keene, NY

One of our most popular and consistently sold out events has been our Annual Winter Outing at Adirondack Rock and River in Keene, New York, now in our second decade. As is the past we have booked the entire facility for the exclusive use of NY Section Members and Guests. In addition to ice climbing, there are many other winter pursuits at our doorstep including snowshoeing and skiing, both cross country and downhill. Also many feel that after a hard day in the cold, there’s nothing quite like socializing by the large fireplace followed by an excellent dinner and, of course, a slide show or two.

This year we are giving registration priority to Annual Dinner attendees and contributors until December 25 at which time we will then open the event to the rest of the Section membership for any remaining unfilled slots.

No more than one guest per member. You may also email (philiperard@nysalpineclub.org) or fax (917-210-3788) in your reservation but a check and release for each member of your party must immediately follow. Please be aware that we have only a few rooms with twin beds and that couples will have priority for the rooms with a double bed. The Bunk Room has become more civilized over the years but still fills up last, through no fault of its own. (Also has two baths for boys and girls!).

While the focus is on ice climbing, new people should know that there is a large skiing contingent ( both downhill, back country and cross country) as well as hikers, snowshoers and just plain loafers.. Also, some knowledgeable climbers arrive a day early or stay a day later to experience less crowded conditions. If you decide to arrive earlier than Friday and stay over Sunday you will be responsible for paying the extra to Rock and River.

Depending on demand, ice climbing clinics at the beginner/intermediate level are planned for Saturday @$100 per person. Private guiding is also available at regular rates. Guide services in the area include Ed Palen( ed@rockandriver.com) or 518-576-2041 or others.

Ed has a large supply of boots, crampons, axes and other gear that are available for rent. If you wish to climb guideless please bring your own partner as we won’t “fix” people up with leaders or seconds. A signed release from all participants, included and returned with the registration form and payment, is also required.

Over the years, this weekend in January has never failed us. No guarantees but history is on our side. There is also a natural indoor climbing wall, so bring your shoes!

Sunday, December 6, 2009

American Alpine Club Clif Maloney Memorial Hike



Clif, who perished on September 28 on Cho Oyu, after becoming the oldest American to summit an 8000 meter peak, trained assiduously in the Hudson Highlands, about 50 miles north of Manhattan, across the river from West Point. On a beautiful, Indian Summer type of day, about 30 New York Section members gathered to remember Clif, in the way he would have most appreciated, by hiking the very same trails he spent so many hours climbing in preparation for his quest for the Seven Summits. Two groups summited Breakneck Ridge via different routes and a third group hiked the carriage trails around and visited the Osborne Castle in Garrison. After a full day of outdoor activities, the group gathered at the Galligan’s in Cold Spring for a sumptuous cocktail party and buffet dinner. Among the attendees were Carolyn Maloney, Clif’s widow, and their two daughters Christina and Virginia.
Our thanks go to Vic Benes who organized the outdoor activities and to the Galligan’s for their warm and welcoming hospitality.

Phil Erard
NY Section Chair