Yes folks, everybody’s favourite NWB feature is back for 2009 with an intriguing chunk of mountain rock on the Gallt yr Ogof hillside in the Ogwen Valley. Take it away Big G:

Dear NWB.com readers and BotM followers,

So sorry to have failed in my duties of late, I have allowed myself to be distracted by the trivia of modern life, but am now able to attend once again to more important matters.

How often does one pause for thought on the first move of the year? It is a special moment, but invariably takes the form of an exploratory grab of some obvious hold for a bit of a warm up, in trainers, perhaps in less then ideal conditions. Does it feel the same as it used to?

My first grapple was with this attractive formation in the Ogwen Valley, having stomped through surprisingly deep sphagnum moss. An overhang that first dalliance - preparing the footholds with a bit of mud the rounded arete is clutched for a few perfect moments before a backward plunge into more oozing flora, light rain tickling my face.

Was it still special? YES - and somehow better than ever!

686 598 is a grid ref to amuse all but the most distinguished boulderer. Park at Gwern Gof Isaf and setting off along the cycle track towards Capel, head uphill before arriving at the more popular Gallt yr Ogof boulder. The crack is a proper feature without any facility for cheating and remained unclimbed as it was soaking. The arete however is a work of wind-sculpted art.

Yours,

Big G

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