A fine Thursday to take a day off work, the plan to go (back) to Ogwen and have a go at Idwal Stream whilst conditions looked favourable.
Four of us arrived, (one behind the camera of course!)
Cwm Idwal was completely frozen, which boded well, and all
looked well up to wards the slabs and Devil's Kitchen. We'd opted
to take the path, following last week's swimming lesson.
The sun was rising, and the day looked good.
A quick look at what was on offer, and an opportunity to take
a layer or two off. There was virtually no breeze, and despite
being in the shadow of the glyders, it was quite warm.
Following Marek's recommendation the previous week, how could we resist?
Also, following James Cameron's (aka Marek's) excellent videography
from last week, (see Marek' site
Steven Spielberg (aka John), swapped his camera into video mode. The results are below.
The start of the route. The start of John's directorial/camera operator career.
(Ignore the comment's Marek. I feel guilty now.)
Ian followed with great gusto.
'Lovely neve', said John, from the chair. Action.
Even managed to place an ice screw for practice.
Ian made easy work of the pitch.
Gear removed, and onward.
Lovely ice, and..
..the nicest move of the route, expertly made, but evidence of the
sheer grace and skill of the climber not captured(!)
Woohoo.
Ian then finds the challenge of the move, and attacks it.
A good flow of water rushing under the ice at the belay stance.
Spielberg ascends.
Rushing water..