JOIN THE AGM THIS WEDNESDAY
Dear Members,

This is a final reminder  to join us for our Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Clubhouse (11 Oorbietjie Rd, Robin Hills, Randburg, 2194) on 13th March at 6 pm, with the official meeting starting at 7 pm
 
We encourage you to arrive early, from 6 pm, to enjoy snacks and drinks and catch up with fellow members. It's a great opportunity to socialize and discuss our shared passion for mountaineering before we dive into the agenda and updates.

For those who can't make it in person, we've got you covered with a Zoom meeting option. Please see the links below for the Zoom meeting, the Agenda and the Proxy Vote form. 

Looking forward to seeing you on Wednesday,

Warm regards,
- The Committee
Johannesburg Section
 

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Join us for the Sing-Song Braai at the Clubhouse (11 Oorbietjie Rd, Robin Hills, Randburg, 2194) on 20th March at 6 pm.

JOIN THIS MONTH'S TALK
 
I started climbing at age 14, and cut my teeth on the Yorkshire gritstone edges. We lived in Leeds so there was lots of choice of venue.    
 
It wasn’t long before we ventured to the Peak District, North Wales, Cornwall, Lundy and Ireland. In 1982 I emigrated to South Africa, to take up an engineering post in the City Council of Johannesburg. Shortly thereafter I joined the MCSA, and climbed with Terry White and Som Morkel, who took me under their wings. In the next few years there were trips to Spitzkoppe, the Berg, Natal and Blouberg. Other climbing trips included France (Verdon), Peru, and San Lorenzo (Argentina). 
 
But the rock always drew me back. My OCD personality wouldn’t let go; in 1999, Heather and I climbed 365 pitches, ‘a pitch a day’, with only one rest weekend.
 
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Later on I visited Yosemite four times, returned to southern France, Canada (Lotus Flower Tower) and made several trips to the Cape Cederberg.  Many of these trips with Paul Fatti.
 
We run and cycle now, but still have great memories and friendships from our climbing days. I ‘lived to tell’ (the stories), and I am most grateful for that.
 
The rock is special, but the friendships are what matter.

Join us for our this talk at the Clubhouse (11 Oorbietjie Rd, Robin Hills, Randburg, 2194) on 27th March at 6 pm, with the official meeting starting at 6:30 pm.
 
We encourage you to arrive early, from 6 pm, to enjoy snacks and drinks and catch up with fellow members. It's a great opportunity to socialize and discuss our shared passion for mountaineering before we dive in.
 
 

DIARISE THESE UPCOMING MEETS!

 
 
News & Reminders
Our last tidbits of admin and member updates!
 
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UIAA NEWSLETTER
Read this month's UIAA Newsletter.
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MEET REPORT:
FERNKLOOF KLOOFING
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On Sunday morning, 13 of us gathered at Bergheim, ready for a day filled with adventure. As we ascended the mountain, the looming storm clouds provided a dramatic backdrop to the stunning views with distant rumblings of thunder urging us to quicken our pace.
 
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As we dropped into the top of the kloof via our first abseil the sun came out and warmed the day (perfect conditions for kloofing).
 
Fernkloof is a really underestimated kloof, with lots of interesting obstacles requiring abseiling, rope ladders, scrambling and swimming (there are easier ways, but we did it the fun way).
 
We had a great mix of experience levels with "regulars" helping the newbie's along.
 
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Other than a few scrapes and bruises  everyone made it back in high spirits, with some daylight to spare.
 
The great camaraderie and attitudes of members joining these events make organizing meets an absolute pleasure.
 
Also, please support Bernheim, they are extremely welcoming and friendly especially to MCSA members.

- Andreas
 
 
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MEET REPORT:
MT EVEREST MULTIPITCH SPORT CLIMBING
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16 enthusiasts gathered for a weekend filled with camaraderie, challenges, and triumphs. Our diverse group included both seasoned climbers and individuals attempting multi-pitch climbs for the first time.
 
Friday night set the tone for the weekend as attendees gathered around a lively braai, forging connections and discussing plans for the upcoming climbs. Teams were formed, strategies devised, and the sense of anticipation was palpable. It was a perfect opportunity for both newcomers and experienced climbers to share their knowledge and excitement.
 
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Over the course of the weekend, our teams took on a variety of challenging routes, each with its own unique character. Some of the highlighted climbs included "Rhino on City Hall Steps," "Men Behaving Badly," "For Your Eyes Only," "Easy Rider," and "Pumping Peacock." The selection catered to different skill levels, allowing everyone to find a climb that matched their abilities and ambitions.
 
Safety is always a top priority, and we are delighted to report that all participants navigated their climbs with skill and caution, ensuring a positive and secure experience for everyone involved.
 
We extend our gratitude to all who participated, fostering an environment where climbers of all levels can come together, learn from each other, and create lasting memories.
 
- Lauren and Mark
 
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TOGETHER, WE CAN STRENGTHEN OUR CLUB'S FUTURE
Every donation to the club, big or small, makes a difference. Your support in this crucial time will help us pay off our debts promptly and maintain a strong financial foundation. You can donate by transferring money via EFT with your annual membership fees, or you can donate through our web portal. Please consider a recurring payment, which will make a big difference over time.
It is not what the club can do for you, it is what YOU can do for the club.
 

 
LOVE YOUR MOUNTAINS.
Explore. Discover. Connect. Protect.
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Office Number:  061 461 8259 
Office Hours: Mon & Wed 15:00 - 20:00, Tues & Thurs 13:00 - 18:00, Fri 9:00 - 12:00
Email: admin@jhb.mcsa.org.za
Website: www.mcsajohannesburg.org