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Recognising Your Own – PR1.2, Madeira
There are moments in the mountains where conversation becomes unnecessary. PR1.2 in Madeira is not a casual walk. It moves along exposed ridgelines, carved into volcanic terrain that demands attention. The kind of ground where footing matters, weather turns quickly, and distraction has consequences. It was there I met him—a local guide. But not just a guide. A firefighter. A medic. Different country. Different language. Same profession. And immediately, something familiar. Th
gdacook
Apr 32 min read


Humility in the Mountains
The Quiet Skill That Keeps Teams Safe High in the mountains, the qualities that matter most are rarely the ones people talk about. It isn’t strength. It isn’t experience. It isn’t even leadership. The most important trait in any team is humility. Humility is often misunderstood. People think of it as modesty or quietness, but in reality it is something much more practical. Humility is accurate self-awareness. It is the ability to assess your own ability honestly, to recognise
gdacook
Mar 132 min read


Why the UK Weather Has Been So Wet This Year (and Where to Find the Best Weather Info
If you’ve been out on the hills, dales or downs this year and wondered whether you brought the wrong map — think again. The UK has been unseasonably wet, with more persistent rainfall and saturated ground than many of us can remember. For mountaineers, hikers and outdoor lovers, this isn’t just trivia — it’s planning intelligence. In this post we’ll unpack why the UK’s weather has been wetter than usual in 2026 and share reliable sources of weather information to help you pla
gdacook
Feb 223 min read


Training for the Mountains: Why the Head Game Matters More Than Your Legs
Spring is when people start thinking seriously about the mountains again. Routes get planned. Gear comes out of storage. Training ramps up. Most people start in the same place: fitness. That’s sensible — but it’s not enough. Because in the mountains, physical weakness rarely ends the day first.It ’s hesitation, doubt, impatience, or poor decision-making under fatigue. That’s the head game. And it deserves training too. Fitness is necessary. Mental preparation is decisive. The
gdacook
Feb 23 min read
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