Ruanaich.com

Glencoe 29 January 2012

2012-01-29T23:43:00.001Z

Having missed some sunny days midweek Sunday was the only day I could do. There was a chance of sunny spells but as daylight broke it was clear the clouds were here to stay.
Winds were light and temperature just below zero.
We went straight up as lower slopes were scoured. The main basin had great snow but viz was down to nothing. You must use the force and feel your way down. A few runs up top and we decided to swap snow conditions for visibility instead. Hard in places but complete, we spent the rest if the day on Mugs Alley with its dirty knuckles and fresh grass sections which you could even smell as you skipped over the vegetation. This was compensated for with a rest on the Cliffy chairlift.
Lifts closed and everyone converged on the Plateau Run. My holiday, a week from now, passed before my eyes as I heard ski turns closing in on me from behind. Skis appeared either side of my right leg. The skier spun around, grabbing me and as I tried to keep both of us upright I could feel my thigh muscle pulling and burning. We keeled over together and he ended up on top of me. Pride dented and board scratched but no one hurt permanently.
A good day all in all and the staff did a grand job as usual despite conditions.

Glencoe 15th January 2012

2012-01-15T17:11:00.001Z

Stayed in Cardross Saturday night, nearly slept in and didn't leave till 8.30, but the morning was crisp and the road was clear. Blue skies until the top of Loch Lomond then a few clouds trapped amongst the peaks. Driving up Rannoch Moor, the top of the resort looked cloud bound while it's surroundings we're bathed in sunlight. This didn't last all day though as the wind, light though it was moved the mist onward.
Conditions were hard. No fresh snow for a while and the mountain was looking bare. Main Basin was ok when there was visibility, but very noisy and hard on the edges.
Tested out the ContourHD camera and different mounts. Will check results when I get home. Fresh but not too cold. -3 to -5 maybe. It was about zero at the carpark. Unfortunately it's still too early in the year for the sun to bathe the north facing slopes but better than sitting in the house on a Sunday.

To shred or not to shred?

2012-01-13T21:56:00.001Z

Maybe Glencoe snowboard on Sunday?

Glencoe 17th December 2011

2011-12-17T18:37:00.000Z

A crisp cold day and the mains power is back on at Glencoe after a week of blackout conditions caused by Hurricane Bawbag. The plateau poma was still off, but the walk is a good warm up. The snow underfoot was wind packed powder which was all the way down to the carpark. Mugs alley was well filled in and spent most of our Time. I was playing around on a shorter board than I'm used to which was fun. Very light too. It was a sample I designed at work but it won't see production. It's early in the season and nice to be up before Christmas but that means it gets dark earlier, so it was quite surreal especially with dark goggles on.
Conditions were great. -3 plus windchill meant the snow stayed in shape. Main Basin filling nicely. Etive Glades is still rocky, as is Rannoch Glades. Graeme and I didn't bother with Spring Run or The Wall. Plenty of chances in the season ahead I hope. Blue skies and fresh snow with little or no wind. You couldn't ask for a better start.

The snow is lying

2011-12-05T00:20:00.001Z

Deep and crisp and even. Cycle in to work will be fun. Hope it's lying thick on the hills!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

The Dawn of Boredom

2011-10-16T12:26:00.001Z

Braehead Xscape 29th August 2011

2011-08-29T20:48:00.001Z

Just spent 2 hours at sno!zone. Butters not really impoving. But good fun was had.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

2011-08-02T20:09:00.003Z

Western Isles 2011
View the Tour De Farce right here!

The scene of Norms pedal incedent

2011-05-02T23:53:00.002Z

Here is the spot about 1 mile after we left Norm's where his pedal fell off his new bike. He'd stripped the thread!
He went home and I went on to meet Niels and continued on to Loch Lomond.

You can download a kml file for google earth here:
Import URL: http://share.abvio.com/39ac/24a7/4d23/8712/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20110501-1515.kml
Ride Time: 2:44:18
Stopped Time: 0:00
Distance: 24.76 miles
Average: 9.04 miles/h
Fastest Speed: 25.65 miles/h

My new T-shirt

2011-05-02T23:33:00.003Z

Modelling my new 'Blind Leading the Blind' T-shirt.

Buy T-Shirts from Ruanaich via Zazzle

2011-04-03T23:31:00.002Z

make custom gifts at Zazzle

Parrot Boy

2011-04-03T21:51:00.005Z

Parrot Boy by Ruanaich
See more Parrot T-Shirts

Blind Leading the Blind

2011-04-03T21:19:00.006Z

labrador puppy by Ruanaich
Design your shirt at zazzle

Hebrides 2009 Diary

2011-03-30T22:21:00.003Z

If you are at all interested in reading about my 2009 trip to the Western Isles you can download it here: http://db.tt/WMJ9qtT

Glencoe, Saturday 19th March 2011

2011-03-20T23:43:00.002Z

We had to leave the house in Aviemore by 10am so thought I'd travel back to Glasgow via Glencoe, taking the Newtonmore - Spean Bridge road. It was a pleasant road and only an hour before I was passing Nevis Range ski area. Tempted though I was I passed through Fort Bill, picking up a McD's on the way. By 12.30 I was driving up the access road at the mighty Coe. It was a bit blowy but sun made the occasional appearance and the wind was whipping up the snow and freshening tracks each time I made a run down Main Basin. Under my board the snow was firm windpacked powder. Mugs Alley was wide as there was complete coverage. I didn't manage Spring Run but heard it was great. Calling it a day, I did the carpark run. Again pretty much full snow cover all the way down although getting a bit soft near the bottom.
The perfect end to a week off is an afternoon at Coe with the best snow cover in years. Let's hope it lasts and we have a great second half to the season.

Cairngorm, Thursday 17th March 2011

2011-03-19T00:47:00.000Z

Another afternoon up the Gorm. Weather cleared as started cloudy. Started with an energy sapping run down the west wall the some fun in the compacted powder of the ptarmigan basin, even on some groomers high above ptarmigan T-bar.
The weather then started to turn, hazy at first then heavier with some brief snow flurries. The m1 and white lady runs were amazing when you could see ahead. Visibility started to return to the poor conditions of two days earlier. Kept going as best we could but at 4 o'clock I decided to call it quits when toe side turns ended fake and me feeling a bit sea sick. You just couldn't tell if you were facing down the fall line or not!
Day 3 at Gorm was another good one all in all.

Cairngorm, Wednesday 16th March 2011

2011-03-19T00:28:00.000Z

Couldn't get much more different to yesterday's weather. Beautiful bluebird conditions. Wasn't too busy and made my way up for the afternoon via drag lifts. Couldn't be bothered waiting for the funicular. Faicaill poma took me to the now consolidated powder fields of yesterday. Still soft, still wonderful. As the day went on the snow became wetter. This meant some pow runs now sucked on the board, slowing things down a bit. Great fun though and more hard work for my left leg.
Temperatures were rising as I decided to take my remaining runs down the side of the day lodge poma. My last run of the day was down through buttery soft snow right to the roadside and my awaiting car. A fantastic day.

Cairngorm, Tuesday 15th March 2011

2011-03-17T19:51:00.000Z

First day up at Gorm this season. Plenty of snow around great depth but visibility was yet again a problem. Some great powder off Faicall Ridge. Back leg burn was an issue as I don't seem to be in shape so much compared to last year. Did zig zags and gun-barrel mostly as well as a few big stacks due to deep deep powder.

Saturday 12th March 2011

2011-03-13T21:29:00.001Z

A large storm system has brought blizzards once again to the Scottish mountains. Snow started falling even in Glasgow on the Friday night. On arrival at Glencoe snow was down to the car park.
Blizzards prevailed up the mountain with an icy blast accompanying it. Visibility was non existent and it was a day of sensory deprivation. The main basin was loaded with soft powder. Spring Run and Flypaper were closed due to avalanche conditions.
On my last visit snow levels had dropped significantly and the season didn't look like it had long left. Today however has seen the whole ski area revived.
The Bunny Run was fantastic. Very deep and great for slashing the pow. Visibility was so poor I commented on being close to a small cliff only to immediately to fall down it.
Many folk were taking runs down to the car park. But at the end of the day, tired legs and whiteout conditions we decided to take the chair.
I was told of a wide run out to the right of Mugs Alley that goes far out all the way down to the base. Must try it if I get the chance again.
The next day I wasn't up, but the website showed that the snow hadn't stopped falling. Piste bashers in the car park and about two feet of snow on the roofs. It looks like the season has been breathed once again back to life.

Saturday 5th March 2011

2011-03-10T22:52:00.002Z

Took a trip up to ride and watch the first Glencoe Snowpark Jam. Visibility was very poor except when cloud parted briefly. The temperatures had been high and loads of snow had been lost. Up to 3 feet in places. Choppy conditions and sugary snow made the ride tricky. The kids in the jam session didn't seem to mind too much. A lot of skill was on view.
I didn't get too much riding done. Lower slopes were none existent so I stuck to the Main Basin with a little go on Etive Glades. Here's hoping for a top up of fresh snow.
Temperature was above zero and snow was wet.

Saturday 26th February 2011

2011-02-26T17:14:00.001Z

A very changeable day. About three types of weather in one run. Mist, sun then snow.
Lots of snow bad been lost in the rain of the last week. However sunny spells were present. Remaining snow high up was hard and choppy in places. Some snow showers swept over but nothing too heavy. Things need to get colder and snowier. Mugs Ally just about holding up with very soft snow. Didn't try Spring Run today. It may have been good. But spent most time in Main Basin & Happy Valley. Although looking bright next week, maybe a Miracle will bring more snow.

Scotland v Wales

2011-02-14T01:52:00.000Z

Sunday the rugby was forgettable, but the day was great. A long session in the pub to celebrate G's birthday. Then back to the pub after the game to forget. The welsh contingent were happy despite the poor show.

Glencoe 8 February 2011

2011-02-08T20:12:00.001Z

A day off work to grab my second day of the season. A mix of bad timing and bad weather meant I've been desperate to get up to Coe. Tuesday 8th looked like the best day of the week on MWIS so grabbed the chance.
Although I was late to rise I still got the good part of a day up there. The last few days had been very windy with lots of precipitation. This fortunately meant that lots of soft snow was dumped onto of what had become slabs of solid ice.
Main basin started the day. I enjoyed some lovely lazy turns with a few gentle hits of the windlip.
I used my skitracks app for the first time so also went for a few timed runs down Etive Glades reaching 50kph.
The lovely wind packed powder meant Spring Run was a must and lo it was good.
Gentle winds and high cloud made for a great afternoon. It wasn't cold, maybe around or just above zero.
I'll try to publish my skitracks data. Not sure how it works yet.

Western_Isles_2010_ 1 | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

2011-01-31T20:25:00.000Z

Here is the full collection of images from my Summer cycle trip to the Western Isles.

Western_Isles_2010_ 1 | Flickr - Photo Sharing!

Glencoe Sunday 9th January 2011

2011-01-09T23:38:00.000Z

Sunday 9th January 2011 trip to Glencoe. Shot and edited entirely on my iPhone.

A touch blustery, but great soft conditions up top. Could do with a bit more. Chilly wind but around -1 without. Sunny spells on my first venture up this season.

More Hipstamatic

2011-01-01T20:38:00.000Z

Not creepy at all

Hipstamatic on iPhone

2010-12-28T18:30:00.001Z

Glencoe Mountain Resort (mostly)

2010-09-27T17:41:00.000Z

Put together from some photos from this last season.

Hebrides 2010

2010-09-27T13:52:00.000Z

Here's the video of my week long trip to the Outer Hebrides. Shot on Flip video device, so sorry about the quality.

Brushes for iPod

2010-05-24T21:58:00.000Z

Brushes App for iPod Touch

2010-05-23T23:13:00.001Z

Just had a play around with the Brushes App on my iPod Touch. A great little painting tool which lets you export A4 size 300dpi quality as well as animation of the painting process as a quicktime movie. Will upload when my YouTube account lets me.

Glencoe - End of season

2010-04-25T22:02:00.001Z

Once again it looks like lack of numbers has brought Glecoe ski area
to an early close. With snow still filling the top runs the mountain
only had 12 visitors last weekend and only a few this weekend. Not
enough to warrant staying open. It is such a shame especially after
such a fantastic season. Glencoe could easily have made it in to May.
It looks like Cairngorm will be the only resort open next month.
A big thanks to all at Glencoe for a great season.

Glencoe 11th April 2010

2010-04-19T21:47:00.003Z

Up early to make the most of the great sunny Spring conditions. A long
warm day with the same conditions as the day before. Many in T-shirts,
some even in shorts. 20 degrees and soft snow to play in. It doesn't
get much better. Main Basin starting to mogul slightly. Spring Run was
great fun but care had to be taken cutting under the flypaper, closed
due to unstable snow. Mugs alley was becoming increasingly broken.
There was a great spirit on the hill. Smiles all around and continued
classic spring snow conditions. Let's hope it continues into May.
Fingers crossed.

Glencoe 10th April 2010

2010-04-19T21:40:00.002Z

A late start meant an afternoon at Glencoe. The day was warm, about 18
degrees and no wind. The plateau poma still allowed access. Mugs alley
broken but navigable. Once at the top, Main Basin provided lumpy but
great spring snow conditions. Overhead skies were blue with bearley a
cloud. Rannoch Glades also provided great runs although caution was
adisable through the rocks. The drive home was stunning with strong
sun well into the evening.

Glencoe 3rd April 2010

2010-04-04T14:44:00.000Z

Had car for Saturday, but not Sunday, although Sunday did look the better. Driving up through the rain things looked gloomy. There had been good snowfall during the week and the base had filled in giving a much needed top-up. Overhead conditions were grim. As was becoming familiar with Glencoe this season visibility was zero. Usually optimistic ticket office staff predicted it would clear up. I new better though. Once the mist has a hold here, it rarely lets go. Snow was great however. A few runs at the top did not provide much in the way of fun, so I decided to stay low and shred around Mug's Alley. It wasn't too busy, despite the Easter Holiday. Towards the end of the day snow returned, low down it was very wet and mixed with rain. Hopefully we'll see what's left hang on till May, but temperatures are due to increase so we'll have to wait and see if we get some of those classic sunny spring days at Glencoe.

Glencoe 29th March 2010

2010-04-04T14:21:00.001Z

First chance to get on snow during my holiday from work. Weather has been atrocious. However a few centimetres of snow had fallen the night before and the weather looked bright for the Monday. Got up there and the slopes were desolate. Reports say only 20 folk on the hill. Skiers right from the top tow had great fresh which took all day to track out. Lower down the plateau was broken and Mug's Alley was very narrow so stayed at the top despite tiring T-bar. A relaxed day on my own with nice powder sprays (with compact base).

Glencoe 29th March 2010

2010-03-29T09:58:00.000Z

From the slopes. Some fresh at top. Icy underneath and at Mugs Ally.

Cairngorm Sunday 14th March

2010-03-21T14:38:00.000Z

Second day on the Gorm and if anything the weather had worsened. More white-mare conditions and I had not fully recovered from the beating the M1 Poma had given me the day before. More cruising was had although slightly more subdued. Tried to make it to the Ciste Gully, but visibility and wind so bad that we found ourselves once again on the White Lady. Much the same snow as the day before and much more tired. Had a couple of runs on the East Wall of the Lady, which was soft and the nearest thing to powder. Turning around the odd little tree poking out of the snow. The lifts seemed even more brutal today, with all but a few lifting me off the ground. This was compounded by the fact I didn't have a stomp pad on my new board.
I must say I was glad to see the back of the M1 Poma on the home run back to base, but at least did make the most of the weekend.
No photos as there was nothing to see!

Cairngorm Saturday 13th March

2010-03-21T14:31:00.001Z

Looking forward to making the most of the vast snow coverage that Cairngorm was boasting. However the high winds and low visibility put paid to that. Most of the lifts in Corrie na Ciste were closed but we did make it down the Ciste Gully / East Wall and made use of the Day Lodge Poma (which I had never seen run before). Most of the day was spent on the M1 and White Lady. Plenty of millage under my board but white out conditions prevented full exploration. Whole are was covered apart from the very top of Ciste which is flat anyway. Did want to try a bit more freestyle jumps etc but super firm conditions and high speed cruising were the order of the day.
The M1 Poma really took its toll. Rutted conditions and a brutal take off meant I was riding on tired legs for much of the day.
A full day was had on the slopes by 8:30 and almost last lift around 4:30 so not bad at all.

Glenshee 4th March 2010

2010-03-05T18:35:00.000Z

Gareth, Jon and myself took Thursday off work and headed to an icy but sunny Glenshee. Started the day off with a cooked breakfast in Blairgowrie and arrived at Glenshee bathed in warm winter sun. Started off with the Tiger black run, rocks and grass poking through and plenty of moguls. Didn't do a good job of it but probably not the best choice for first run of the day. Should have wondered why no-one else seemed to be attempting it. Over the back on Meall Odhar was great with packed powder and nice gulleys to play in. Huge cornices too, hanging formidably above the corries. A great day in the sun and a continuation of a great season so far. Wide coverage but not a great depth of snow. Heavy traffic areas scrubbed down to ice.

Glencoe, Sunday 28th February 2010

2010-03-02T19:20:00.002Z

The previous Thursday & Friday saw a huge snow fall making Glencoe the snowiest resort in the world (according to Glencoe). The whole lift system needed dug out overnight and the road cleared of drifting snow. We thought it would be better to wait till the Sunday even though they did manage to open for Saturday.
Once up there it was a bit misty but midway and lowdown it was nice and clear.
Using my new board setup we made short work of Happy Valley, Main Basin and the home run down to carpark.
Etive Glades and Flypaper were closed due to avalanche risk. The previous Friday two skiers were airlifted from Etive Glades after triggering an avalanche there. The week before this had been a powder playground.

Glencoe, Sunday 21st February 2010

2010-02-21T23:05:00.000Z

An astonishingly beautiful day at Glencoe. The sun shone all day on a gleaming white hill. Most of the pow from Wednesday had been taken, but there were a few pockets hidden around the hill on Etive and Rannoch Glades.
The Spring Run wasn't great for snowboards as it was in the early stages of growing moguls. These can put a stop to nice rhythmic turns. The whole area was accessible even from the top of the plateau across to the restaurant, this hasn't been ridable for a while. Rannoch Glades was a favourite and I couldn't work out why no-one else was taking advantage of the broken yet fluffy powder. That was until the middle of the afternoon when I gave it another bash. Carried away with slashing the pow, a big heel-side turn was met with the all too familiar clatter of my board striking a rock hidden beneath the snow. As I rode out of the softer snow onto more consolidated pack, I felt the board drag on heel-side turns. I nursed it down Mug's Alley and turned my board over only to have my worst fears confirmed. The granite teeth of Glencoe had stripped away a huge chunk of the base right up to the rail. This put a dampener on things and I only made a few more runs of mugs alley and the plateau before heading down early.
Conditions were great, Main Basin was pisted! and there was still a smidgen of powder to be had days after last fall. Queues weren't too bad either.

Glencoe, Wednesday 17 February 2010

2010-02-18T23:16:00.002Z

The day before the webcams for Glencoe were showing blue skies and fresh snow. It was quickly decided to take Wednesday off work. The weather report made good reading with 60% chance of sun. The day however started foggy and cold. On reaching Tyndrum the snow started coming down heavy. The road conditions got very sketchy. The car park at Coe was quite busy and we were soon up the hill. Snow was still falling and the top of the hill shrouded in mist. Visibility was poor but the snow was exceptional. Etive Glades was full of untouched powder, absolutely phenomenal riding! Rannoch Glades was tricky with few reference points. The bottom slope falls away and as I lead the group down I found the slope breaking away and the small slab avalanche took me down the slope. Having cleared the slope of loose snow I persuaded the others to follow. Looking back up I could see them sitting above the break in the snow. It was quite a drop.
Visibility improved lower down and many more runs on Etive Glades were inevitable.
A great day and the best snow I've had at Coe for a while. Not too cold, but cold enough to keep the powder fluffy.

Glencoe, Sunday 7th February 2010

2010-02-09T01:29:00.006Z

Headed up to Coe with Jonathan, they journey was overcast but due to brighten up. On approach to the ski hill you could see the profile of the mountain with small cap of cloud on top. The hope was for this to lift. The reality was that it would get thicker. Throughout the day it became more of a 'white-mare'. But, the wind was non existent (the reason why it didn't shift).
The snow however was great and we carefully picked our way down the main runs at the top as well as Mugs Alley. Spring Run and Flypaper were closed. No doubt to stop people wandering off the wrong side of the mountain. A distinct possibility. On the lifts you could not see as far as the next pylon. Soft snow and another win for me in the Kinder Surprise challenge although I did break mine eventually when I lent over to do my bindings.

From Glencoe 7 February 2010

Brushes Painting

2010-01-31T16:38:00.000Z

Messing about with Brushes app on my iPod touch. A bit like finger
painting. Tricky to start with but could be good for killing time or
making visual notes.

Glencoe, Saturday 23 January 2010

2010-01-25T19:56:00.003Z

No photo today I'm afraid, after driving all the way up last weekend for a half day and being chased away by the weather, I got up to Coe bright and early to make the most of fair conditions in the West.
Cairngorm was still being dug out as I drove up early taking care on very slippery roads.
It had been a cold night so once up the hill I found Mugs Alley, the run from Plateau to Cliffy very hard ice. Once up the top at Main Basin though, most of this was softer, Etive Glades too was very nice at the top. Spring Run however stayed in the shade and never really softened, but cover meant Thrombosis was available amongst the very wide coverage.
Conditions deteriorated a bit in the afternoon, only slight mist though. Calm winds and wide coverage with short queues meant everyone had a good day.
Still could do with a bit more depth though. I'm sure that will come though. It's still early days for the season.

Glenshee 8th January 2010

2010-01-09T12:33:00.003Z

Friday trip to Glenshee in one of the coldest spells in 20 years. Gareth and myself met Jon & David W. up at Blairgowrie and headed on up to Glenshee. THe temperature was around -11 but the sun was out and sky was blue.
Again, considering the amount of snow lying around the whole country, there is surprisingly little on the hills in comparison.
Although plenty, a lot gets scraped or blown off the hill.
Unfortunately the first three lifts we used all stopped, this was like the bad old days. However the rest of the day passed without hitch. Cairnwell side was quite scraped, but going over Sunnyside to Glas Maol we scored some choppy powder.
A great , cold, white looking Glenshee gave me my third shred of the season and the cold spell looks like lasting at least another week.

From Glenshee 8 January 2010

Glencoe 4th January 2010

2010-01-05T00:26:00.002Z

Another cold day and another visit to Glencoe for my daily shred. Not
much in the way of new snow. Much more compact and on the way to
getting icy in spots. Lower mountain still rocky. Main Basin at top
good but light was a bit flat. This is normal at this time of year as
the sun is at the back of the mountain.
The drive back was memorable as I left early to catch the light. Loch
Tulla and the Blackmount Lochans had a beautiful mist hanging over
them. Of course with this persistant cold spell they are all frozen
over. They look other worldly with the sun setting behind them.

From Glencoe 040110

Glencoe, Tuesday 29th December 2009

2009-12-30T00:34:00.003Z

My first day of the season. Its been cold and snowy everywhere since before Christmas and I thought I'd try to get up before the year was out. An icy drive up through frozen scenery got me there eventually. £30 for not quite the full area, but since they have changed ownership yet again its hard to begrudge them. The plateau poma was for access only as the base was thin. The top did have nice soft snow, but alot of rocks were pocking through. Still need more to fall to get a good base. The main basin is not full and mugs alley is very thin. Still, a good start.

Wish I was there

2009-12-28T13:05:00.001Z

Missing what looks like a glorious start to the season at Coe. Hopefully sniffles will clear up and I can get up there in the next few days.

Glencoe Start to Season?

2009-12-27T16:31:00.004Z

Considering Glencoe tomorrow. Will my knee hold up?

Christmas Morning

2009-12-27T16:17:00.002Z

The view from Mum & Dad's in Cardross.

From Christmas 2009

Western Isles Trip

2009-07-26T17:51:00.006Z

Visit my Picasa site to view some of the pictures taken on my Western Isles cycle trip. Once I get my act together I'll put up a document of the trip here.

From Western Isles Trip

If you are at all interested in reading about my 2009 trip to the Western Isles you can download it here: http://db.tt/WMJ9qtT

Protect Our Winters

2009-06-21T22:24:00.007Z

Protect Our Winters (POW) is a tax exempt, non-profit organization dedicated to reversing the global warming crisis by uniting the winter sports community and focusing our collective efforts towards a common goal. Climate change is a serious issue for all of us who are passionate about our winter sports and in some cases, it's how we make our living. If we harness our collective energy and put forth a focused effort, we can have a direct influence on reversing the damage that's been done and ensure that winters are here for generations behind us.

www.protectourwinters.org

Protect Our Winters

Inaction

2009-06-21T21:31:00.003Z

Thinking it's about time I gave the website an overhaul. This is one reason why not alot has been happening with it. Well I suppose it's also because, well not alot has been happening.I'm planning a solo cycle trip around the Western Isles. Barra and Uists and Harris, maybe Lewis. I hope to fill this blog and the site with the story and some pictures. Maybe even do a book if I get images I'm happy with.
So, remember to check back. Hopefully the trip will be completed by end of July and I'll have plenty of content.

Nevis Range 18 April 2009

2009-04-19T22:58:00.005Z

From Nevis Range 18 April 2009

A gorgeous sunny day. Just managed to get up there for half day. Only the top was available but so were the back corries. It's been a while since I last visited Nevis and I've never been over the back. So after a few warm up runs at the top I headed across to the entrance at 'Back Track'. I'd previously spotted a large crack in the snow pack in the next corrie and since temperatures were getting higher I was nervous. I was on my own and there was no sign of anyone else over the back. After 15 minutes of deliberating I strapped on my board and went to the edge of the cornice. Then I chickened out. Visions of picking up too much speed and impacting the rock band was at the forefront of my mind. A long hike back to the summit ensued. Another time perhaps.

Snow was scalloped when not ridden and slushy on-piste but a great afternoon's riding. I suspect this was my last day this season.

Sent from my iPod

Ttypo bby tthe BBBC

2009-04-19T22:32:00.002Z

This made me smirk watching BBC weather in the morning. Even great institutions fall foul of the dreaded typo.

Glencoe 11 April 2009

2009-04-13T15:10:00.004Z

The dying days of 2008/09 Snowboarding season at Glencoe. Snowboarding only on the main basin with lumpy frozen snow at the start of the day. Softening up later with intermittent snow showers and occasional sunny spells. Quite busy for what there was but it was a day for the die-hards. Not much to shout about but it had to be done.

From Glencoe 11 April 2009

Glencoe for Easter?

2009-04-08T12:23:00.005Z

Looks like I could have a final flourish at Coe for the season. Snow has graced the slopes once again, and although mainly cosmetic I believe, it does mean I can add to my rather poltry 2 viits this season to Coe. Gome on then, more snow please it's never too late.

Veyzonnaz 2009

2009-03-29T22:06:00.003Z

A short movie shot on the last day of my holiday to Switzerland.

Tuesday 17th March

2009-03-17T15:08:00.002Z

From Veysonnaz 2009

Veysonnaz, Switzerland and day 3 of the shred. Temperatures are high but the snow is holding out. As I type this I'm sunning myself in a will-fi enabled bar. A vast area to be had as we are in the 4 Valleys. Went to Verbier yesterday. Seems a nice town but vast. A full day to get there and back involved some very nasty drag lifts. But all in all looks very promising so long as the persistant sun doesn't see off the snow.

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Saturday 28th February

2009-03-07T18:24:00.004Z

From Aviemore Trip 2009

Drove to Aviemore for the weekend. Not expecting much weather-wise Saturday dawned brightly. On approach to Cairngorm, the hill looked very brown. However once we got up the funicular we crossed the ice-clad Corrie Casand took the tow to the top. We made the most of what was there and as the day went on the narrow patches softened. The day was bright and cold and apart from stopping for lunch we kept going all day. The hills really need another dump of snow though. Cold bright icy then softer.
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Goldeneye Goggle

2009-02-26T18:38:00.011Z

I don't normally discuss work, however here is one of my recent design project I quite like.
Above is my limited edition Goldeneye White Goggle. The black version will go in to production, however the white is just a development sample.

Wednesday 11th February

2009-02-15T10:08:00.003Z

From Glencoe 11 February 2009

Took a day off work, and what a day! I'd been watching the weather and although Glencoe had not received the amount of snow the rest of the country had recently been dealt with, I'd been watching the forecast and it was set to be bluebird. The carpark was busy but I was soon up there with my pre-paid ticket.
The snow was quite crispy and a few patches off ice were there to keep you on your toes.
There was not a cloud in the sky and temperatures were low, about -4.
I was on my own so got the whole area covered apart from the flypaper which was closed. So that left me shattered and managed to head down, belly full just before 3.00 and before it got dark.

Queens Park Glasgow February 2nd 2009

2009-02-02T20:57:00.005Z

From Glasgow Snow

Jon and myself had a little after work session making the most of conditions at Queens Park in Glasgow's South side. Avoiding tots on sledges, neds and the like we managed top shred the rad just a stone's throw from our flats and even got chips afterward. How cool is that?

Grim up North

2009-02-01T13:48:00.002Z

Is The truth out there?

2009-02-01T13:21:00.001Z

No snow for me this weekend. Not that I didn't try. Came down to
Cardross on the previous night to get a head start. Forecasts had been
promising more settled conditions and even sun. I awoke to a grey
morning with the trees swaying in the garden.
Straight on to the webcams to see what state the mountain was in.
Grey, with no sign of movement. Winterhighland was saying all lifts
were open. Skiscotland had one closed. However on the web cams I could
clearly see the two top lifts were not running. At some points they
even turned the webcam away from the lift. None of the websites
updated conditions either obviously making sure they didn't put anyone
off.
Maybe I'm a synic but something funny was going on. I ended up not
going.

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Glencoe Saturday 24th January

2009-01-26T01:27:00.021Z

From Glencoe 24th January 2009

The day started with a very snowy drive from Cardross. The worst stretch being between Tyndrum and Rannoch Moor.

By the time I got there it was 10.40 and the carpark was full. luckily I had mum's Ka and managed too squeeze it in a small gap (at an angle).
It was a bit blustery but a lot of snow had fallen. The week before the mountain was bare. Snow continued to fall through the day and some of my best runs were under the Cliffy. The Main Basin was great too.
Not as much snow as this time last year but it was soft and spreadable.Spring Run was in good condition too it must be said, however since the top T-bar was dismounting early there was a wee walk up and across.
Apart from queues and the new £30 lift ticket conditions were good. Plenty of soft stuff.
The drive back was through blizzards yet again. Much worse in the dark. It was reported on the news the following day that 9 climbers were caught in an avalanche on Buchaille Etive Mor that day. 3 were sadly killed. This was only 1 kilometer away, the next mountain along from the ski area.

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Boston Dynamics Big Dog (new video March 2008)

2008-12-27T17:40:00.003Z

Check out this video on YouTube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1czBcnX1Ww

Sent from my iPod

Canvas

2008-12-14T21:03:00.004Z

What about one of these as a canvas filler?

These are just mock ups I did in photoshop for ideas. Got inspiration from a painter called Pam Carter.

Linn Park

2008-12-08T00:52:00.003Z

Took a walk to Linn Park today. This is the second largest park in Glasgow, full of history and wildlife. It is the location of Cathcart Castle and the viewpoint where Mary Queen of Scots watched the battle of Langside before fleeing to England. It was a soft day and the 1.5 mile walk is one I should have made sooner. The park is huge with the river Cart flowing through. Birds include the usual mallard, wren, tits, robin, sparrowhawk even a dipper was spotted. Light was at a minimum so didn't get many shots. However on the walk home along the river a kingfisher was glimpsed in the dusk, the second time I've seen one on the river!

The Freeze Sets In

2008-12-02T21:31:00.002Z

Things are cooling down nicely. Hope we're getting enough white stuff on the hills. Been snowfall in Glasgow and this morning risked life and limb going to work on the frozen canals that were Glasgow's pitiful cycle paths.

White Cart Way

2008-11-02T16:47:00.007Z

From Ruanaich.com

A beautiful sunny Autumn day. A stroll along the river in front of my flat. Leaves in bright colours and lots of life on the river. Was lucky enough also to see the bright blue buzz of a kingfisher after a passer by mentioned its presence. After 2 years its nice to know there's such life in Glasgow.

Early Snow

2008-10-29T07:33:00.010Z

Cold temperatures and some early flurries are helping prepare Glencoe for a good season. Keep everything crossed for a continuation of these conditions and another corking snowboard season.

Lots of pain and no glory

2008-10-05T08:25:00.001Z

Glasgow leg of the British Snow tour. I decided to enter this indoor event with nerves that go with any comp. After about 5 practice runs on the tight course I almost had it. 6th run and I went heelside off the first double woops then dropped 3-4 foot onto my lower back. The next day i'm still sore.

Microsoft Zune To Release Joy Division Player | 24/04/2008

2008-08-16T13:37:00.002Z

Microsoft Zune To Release Joy Division Player | 24/04/2008
| New Order Online - A New Order / Joy Division Web Site: "Microsoft is readying a Joy Division edition of its Zune MP3 player to coincide with the June 10 release of an eponymous DVD about the band."

Dot and David's Wedding 11th July

2008-08-10T16:06:00.003Z

Played usher at brother's wedding at Ross Priory, Loch Lomond. It was
a lovely outdoor humanist ceromony. Weather held up and after formalities we headed to the bar for drinks and a Ceilidh.

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Loch Lomond Cycle 25th July 2008

2008-08-10T16:05:00.002Z

As we did last year we took the bikes down the cycle path to Balloch
from Glasgow. This time however we headed up via Crow Road to meet
Niels at Lock 27 in Anniesland. It was a warm evening but the journey
down was pleasant enough. Drinks and chips were consumed before Jon
and myself got the train home. Emma took Niels back in the car.

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Crawford's Stag do 1-4 August 2008

2008-08-10T15:53:00.002Z

Easy Jet flight from Glasgow on the Friday to Berlin. On arrival we
had some beers at the hostel then moved on to the beer festival for
real. Over a mile of tents hosted beers from around the world and over
the next three days we just about covered the whole lot. On the last
day we did manage to squeeze some culture in. Walking up to the
Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag. Good beers, good weather and good
company. Not a lot could be said for the music however.

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David's Stag do 28-29 June 2008

2008-08-10T15:52:00.001Z

Left in morning from Luss on two nifty little speed boats. These took
about ten of us to Inch Cailloch on Loch Lomond. There we had beers
and a barbeque, even a wee walk around the island to see the sights.
After returning to mainland we headed up to the Drover's where we
spent the rest of the evening. After pints and too many sambucas we
then beaded down in the wooden wigwams at Bein Ghlas campsite. The
following morning was hazy and we had a rather rough taxi ride home. A
good night was had by all though.

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Kelvingrove SnoStorm 24th May 2008

2008-06-15T14:01:00.004Z

I went along to represent Trespass to the Kelvingrove SnoStorm. Niels and Emma popped along to enjoy the sun and snow action.

MNM Birthday Dinner 15th May 2008

2008-06-15T13:57:00.006Z

Since Mhairi and myself share the same birthday and Niels's is a few days later we popped into a southside eatery for a lovely meal.

Monkey Skull

2008-05-26T19:44:00.001Z

Do you not think this phone pic looks just like the skull of a monkey? It is actually a random shape caused by packing tape being ripped off and leaving the damaged print.

End of my season

2008-05-03T13:37:00.003Z

Well it has been a great season, but Nevis Range has decided not to open this weekend so I think I have to concede defeat and realise I'm not going to beat my record season. I was only 3 visits away! I shouldn't be grumbling but I must admit that as I type this there is a rising ebb of depression. Don't know how I'll cope this coming summer. You can never have too much of a good thing. Its just unfortunate the Scottish resorts don't get to much of the paying visitor. Snow definitely wasn't a problem and the amount of blue sky days was also unprecedented.

Let's keep fingers crossed for next season. Hopefully the resorts will be as lucky and provide the wonderful playground they have this past season. For those of you with strong legs and a true passion for sliding on snow, there are plenty of patches left on the hill. I may just have to resort to a few hikes myself. Coe's stash could be there well into the summer, depending on how much rain falls between now and then, Anyway, until next time.

Ruanaich | Snow Diary

Glencoe Closed :(

2008-04-27T19:53:00.005Z

Just heard today that Glencoe are closing up for the season. Not happy. Tons of snow left up top, but I think it has to do with fuel crisis. I think they could have easily gone well into May. What's worse is I decided to give it a rest this weekend. Weather turned out a lot better than forecast too.
I hope Nevis stays open for next weekend!

The management signed off with this bittersweet comment: "So here we are again, the end of another epic season. On behalf of the Management and Staff we would like to thank you all for your continuing support and we look forward to seeing you all again next season. ROCK AND ROLL!!!!!!!!!!!"

Glencoe, April 19, 2008

2008-04-19T19:31:00.002Z

Scattered cloud and a brisk wind but plenty of sun and excellent spring snow. Went all over the hill. Deirdre loved the idea of the Flypaper so I had to bite the bullet and show her. did it twice, but it was much easier than last time thanks to the excellent snow and a slightly different route down the right hand side. The canyon is still fun and mugs alley is holding up still with lots of little jumps. Even Thrombosis down the middle. As well as the up rail at Cliffhanger Chair we did the box in the main basin and Deirdre coaxed me into doing the C-box. Got 3quarters along then was thankful of my impact shorts.
Today was great, wind did not hamper things. Temperatures were just warm enough to soften the ice from night before into great soft stuff. Deirdre was excellent on the Flypaper, really confident and she really loves the run.
Hopefully a few more weeks of the season left, although it looks like the weather may start to take a turn for the worse in the coming week. Fingers crossed!
Picasa Web Albums - Michael - Snowboarding - IMG_0004 brig...

France Trip

2008-04-17T06:47:00.002Z

This is an old video from 2000 documenting our drive down the west coast of France.

The Daily Swarm - Joy Division New Balance Sneakers Really Limited Edition: One pair only

2008-04-14T22:21:00.001Z

The Daily Swarm - Joy Division New Balance Sneakers Really Limited Edition: One pair only

What do you think of these? If only they were a pair of skate shoes I'd definitely go for them. As a JD fan I'm not offended at all by this sort of thing I'd love a pair!

Glencoe, April 13, 2008

2008-04-14T06:48:00.002Z

Another great day at Glencoe. The drive up was blue skies until we got to the mountains. High clouds prevented consistent sunshine although we did get brief spells where the sun came through. Snow was still good, starting crisp but eventually softening through the day. Still a bit choppy in areas.
Jon, Niels and myself covered all of the mountain. Etive Glades had just enough to avoid rocks, Main Basin under the poma provided some untouched wet powder and scars for our bases. We also did Flypaper which Niels flew down in a few turns, however my legs went, especially after seeing Jon slide from top to bottom on his back. Hilarious and slightly worrying all at the same time.
Ruanaich | Michael MacDonald

Glencoe, April 12, 2008

2008-04-12T18:51:00.003Z

What started as a fairly unpromising day turned out to be a Glencoe classic. A lot more sun than was expected, zero winds and fresh snow.
Spring Run had improved and the canyon was fun. Fresh snow had improved out toward Etive Glades and the rails at the Cliffhanger were fun too.
There were no queues to speak of although hopefully busy enough to keep the accountants happy.
Glencoe really comes into its own in the spring and it looks like we're set for a corker!
Picasa Web Albums - Michael - Snowboarding - IMG_0006_2.JPG

Glencoe, April 9, 2008

2008-04-09T18:47:00.002Z

Gareth gave me a last minute call the night before to come to Glencoe. Did a few checks and I was onboard.
The morning was bright and sunny. As we drew closer to the hill it was obvious this would not be for long. We did however keep great visibility even though it was overcast. The snow is still great. Main basin full, so is Spring Run, although both a bit choppy. Mugs Alley a bit sugary and the Plateau looks like it's on the way out. Would be great to keep that going, but the upper half of the hill is still alive and kicking.
Messed about under the Cliffy Chair, Bumhole at the bottom of the canyon and did the lower rails. Another great full day at Glencoe.
Picasa Web Albums - Michael - Snowboarding - IMG_0003.JPG

Glencoe, April 5, 2008

2008-04-06T07:43:00.001Z

Jonathan and myself left a bright cool Glasgow after a few failed attempts to get the company car rolling. We arrived at a blustery Coe with company banners and flags. The guys at Glencoe were very helpful, sorting passes, locating good spots for our banners around the ticket office and once on the hill the GPC & Legion guys helped us at the park.
Weather was changeable to say the least. Blue skies one minute, blizzards the next. The snow itself was changeable at first it was hard and choppy, but falling snow improved it slightly and lower down it was quite sugary. The wind picked up and visibility dropped as we dismantled the flags at the park.
There had been some snow loss in the past week because of a thaw, but in general there is still lots of coverage, you can still get right down to the Access chair.

Glencoe, March 31st, 2008

2008-03-31T15:11:00.000Z

Something strange about having a whole piste to yourself on a sunny March day. That's what I've got now though. Just went down an empty Spring Run & Main Basin! A perfect day apart from being on my own. It is a Monday though and I did leave short notice at 10. Just lucky to scam a car.

Glencoe, March 30, 2008

2008-03-30T20:06:00.000Z

A grey start with rain in the car park. The snow was falling on the plateau but gradually dispersed and revealed great snow conditions all over the mountain. Irv and Ange arrived a bit late as they forgot the clocks went forward. Unfortunately they seemed to bring the wind with them. Visibility started to deteriorate, so we went to the cafe for a coffee. The sun immediately appeared and we finished our drinks only for the bad weather to be awaiting us on the hill once again.
No matter, at least the snow was coming down, topping up what Coe already has. Ange and Irve left and Deirdre and myself made the Spring Run our last of the day.

Although there was a bit of wind and wet snow, snow conditions themselves were excellent. Wet powder! If you can have such a thing - it is Scotland, so anything is possible. Needles to say, the sun poked out fro the clouds as soon as we descended to the car park!

Ruanaich | Snow Diary

Glencoe, March 23, 2008

2008-03-24T13:37:00.005Z

Easter Sunday, and I was not sure about the weather. I decided to leave Glasgow in the morning, nick mum's car and head up to Coe for the afternoon and meet Fiona. Webcams showed sun shining down on the mountain, but it was the wind that worried me.
On arrival it was snowing. Good for coverage, not so good for visibility. However clear patches came and went and the snow conditions were great. Glencoe really is getting a solid covering.
From previous thaws there were a few wee icy bits poking through, but nothing worth worrying about. The snow kept coming in waves and this means Glencoe must be doing the best out of any Scottish resorts.
Go to my YouTube page to see a day in my life in Glencoe Half Day.

Glencoe, March 16, 2008

2008-03-16T20:36:00.004Z

The same windpack powder was a bit choppy and harder this morning, however this started to soften enough to make for a great day. Sunny spells as the not so cold northerly wind whipped the clouds away. Generally good visibility. It looks like there will be plenty of the snowpack to last till the end of the season, maybe into May once again.
The rainbow rail has been dug out along with a few others. The snow has certainly buried many of the main features of the hill.
The spring run once again proved excellent, bowing out convexly with the weight of snow its holding.
Deirdre and myself headed up for today and what a beautiful day it was. Not as cold as predicted and the strong sun at times meant the old pit vents had to been undone at lower level. A few wee jumps were had on rollers and the bum hole at the bottom of the canyon. And full length runs from the top down spring run, main basin to canyon were all great fun on the abundant snow.

Glencoe, March 14, 2008

2008-03-14T23:02:00.002Z

Windpacked powder slightly wet making first few turns under the cliffy a bit sticky. Once used to it though conditions were excelent. Sunny spells amongst light showers. The hight of some of the drifts was incredible. Haggis trap and most of the canyon was completley filled. The canyon was almost like a new run. Spent most of my time under the cliffy to stay out of the wind and take advantage of the rare terrain change.
Main basin was totally loaded with snow. Rainbow rail was buried and snowcovered all the rocky islands that are usually near the bottom of this area. For a Friday the car park was pretty full. Nice to see people taking advantage of the great late season conditions.

Tignes, France. March 2008

2008-03-09T13:59:00.010Z

6 Days in Tignes France, started with sunshine and plenty of soft snow. Conditions got a bit colder with a wee bit of snow added midweek. Did pretty much the whole Tignes basin and over to Val D'Isere.

The Chalet Anapurna was a great base with ski in and out conditions. The food provided was excellent and the group of 20 was well catered for.

Check the picasa album for images.

Oban, 15-17 February, 2008

2008-02-23T14:30:00.004Z

From Oban

Norm's Birthday weekend in Oban, obviously involved too much drink, not enough snowboarding, some poor food, some excellent food, bar pool, darts, sore heads, queazy stomachs and no sea-faris.

Glencoe, February 9th 2008

2008-02-15T07:37:00.003Z

Misty conditions prevail with warm temperatures and spring snow conditions. There was not a drop of wind but this also meant that the mist did not move and visibility was shocking. Up top snow was plentiful and soft so this was not a problem, however it was very disorientating. Top T-bar was dismounting 1 pylon early due to windblown top. There was quite a bit of snow loss further down with the bridge at the Cliffhanger starting to show through and the very bottom of the Plateau run starting to break up. The plateau poma was fully operational though.

Went up on my own and car park was full. In the hill it still seemed quiet that was until on the rare occasion when the mist lifted you could see people scattered across the mountain. Very strange as the mist also seemed to deaden the sound.

Could do with a top up of snow, but the base is holding together.