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| Name: |
John MacKenzie |
| Age: |
52 |
| Occupation: |
Runs an estate and is also an explosives consultant |
| Base: |
Castle Leod in Strathpeffer |
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| Description: |
John, Earl of Cromartie, has been climbing for 39 years and shows no sign of ever giving up! Best known perhaps for his onsight exploration of many areas in the north west Highlands, in summer and winter, during the 70's, 80's and 90's. Although capable of climbing harder - and quite partial to a bit of hard jamming - the majority of his first ascents tend to be in the middling grades.
His earlier winter climbs include Crystal Tripper (V) in the Fannichs and The Ressurection (III) on Sgurr Mor. John was also behind much of the summer development on the many crags dotted around Strathfarrar, Strathconon, Ben Wyvis and the Fannichs. In the last few years the Gruinard area and Creag Ghlas have seen the focus of his attention. On the latter he picked out some fine gems including Victory Crack (E3) and Salamander (HVS).
John could be described as exuberant and earnest and has been told by friends that he exhibits 'public school enthusiasm'. He admits to giving two star routes three stars on optimistic days and says, "even bad routes can be good if the circumstances are right"! For John, enjoyment and good friends appear to be as important as the climbing itself - as he jokes, "any decent looking piece of crag will do." |
| Finest Moment: |
"Perhaps climbing for near 40 years and still enjoying it and my friends". |
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