This is a RSS news feed for the outdoor capital. http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/index.asp http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=845 The Wilderness ARC is a 5-day multi-discipline, expedition-style Adventure Race. The 2006 event will take place inLochaber from 27 May - 4 June and is also the British Adventure Racing Championship. The Wilderness ARC is a World Series event and qualifier for the Adventure Race World Championship. As such, the race is a truly international affair. This May teams of 4 will race together, unsupported, over a 250-mile course through the magnificence of the Western Highlands of Scotland. The journey involves onlyhuman-powered transport and disciplines may include trail running, mountain biking, canoeing, rope work, swimming and others. Adventure Racing is the ultimate human challenge. The Wilderness ARC captures the spirit of this adventure within the beauty of one of nature’s most evocative landscapes. To find out more about Wilderness Arc and other adventure races visit www.aceraces.co.uk/wildernessarc Wed, 5 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1884 Following concern for team safety organisers of the 2007 Adventure Racing World Championship, being staged in the Fort William and Lochaber region of the Western Highlands of Scotland, have insured their 196 competitors against attack from the Loch Ness Monster for a section of this week’s event that will see them swim and kayak in the UK’s most voluminous freshwater lake. In the 500 kilometre unsupported, non-stop, multi-discipline, endurance race a dip in the world famous Loch Ness is just one of the many challenges that the toughest endurance athletes from 22 nations across the globe will face. Other disciplines the 49 mixed teams of four will tackle during the race include navigation, mountain biking, mountain running, abseiling, mountaineering, river crossing and gorge swimming. Participating regularly in a series of adventure races around the world, the determined athletes expect the limits of their minds, bodies and spirits to be tested but never before have they faced the risk of coming face to face with a legendary monster. The Loch Ness Monster, or Nessie as she is known locally, is one of the best-known mysteries of cryptozoology, the first reported sighting being in 565AD and depicted in the Life of St Columba by Adamnan. Since then a number of sightings of a creature with a small head, long neck, small front fins and a humped back have been reported at the beauty-spot prompting a number of scientific explorations, none of which have provided any solid evidence of the existence of the creature. However a lack of evidence has not reduced the interest and some people still believe in the existence of Nessie. The race organisers don’t want to take any risks as the Adventure Racing World Championship makes its first ever visit to the UK. They said “We are committed to making the course as safe as possible, but sometimes a balance must be made and we therefore thought insurance might be a good idea. Of course it will scare some of the international teams, but also add extra intrigue to this fantastic race”. Competitors from as far afield as Australia, Brazil, South Africa, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Canada and the United States will be covered with a policy arranged by the UK’s leading event insurance specialists ESR, who also provide insurance for Edinburgh’s world famous Hogmanay celebrations. Pamela Choat of ESR, admits this is a strange policy request: “We’re used to being asked to provide insurance cover for the most unusal eventualities but this is the first time we’ve been asked to cover a ‘monster’ sized risk like this one… ” Adventure Racing courses are always kept a closely guarded secret until the night before the starting sequence as navigation is a major part of the sport. After the route was announced a number of athletes were surprised and concerned to find that they will be taking a dip with one of Scotland’s best known figures of folklore. Mike Kloser, captain of Team Nike, the defending world champions, said: “we can’t wait to get to Loch Ness and hopefully the legendary monster will make a special guest appearance for us. We’re not afraid…..bring her on”. Another competitor added: “An encounter with Nessie could be scary, but for us the real problem is the ‘ lack of sleep monster’”. To find out more about this amazing endurance race go to the Adventure Race World Champs website http://www.arwc2007.com/ For live on-line coverage of the event visit the sleepmonsters website http://www.sleepmonsters.co.uk/racereport.php?race_id=2905&story_order Tue, 29 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3581 'Highland Emergency',a new documentary series on Five, is highlighting the hard work of emergency services and private medics in the Outdoor Capital and beyond. As well as following the RAF Search & Rescue team from Lossiemouth and the Lochaber ambulance service, the show features the private, medical emergency cover company Rescue Medics, who provided cover at the Mountain Biking World Cup in June. The latest episode featured a rescue from Ben Nevis on a busy bank holiday. The series is broadcast every Tuesday at 7.30pmon Five, and the episode featuring Rescue Medics at Nevis Range isdue to broadcast on September 9th. If you would like to catch up on previous shows, they are available on demand here . Thu, 28 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1078 What an action-packed weekend we had in Lochaber over 27th and 28th May! With the Mountain Bike World Cup, the start of the Wilderness Arc adventure race, Sail Caledonia regatta AND the huge Party in the Fort on Saturday night – it was certainly a weekend to remember! Thousands of visitors joined Lochaber locals to celebrate one of the Outdoor Capital's biggest weekends of the year. Mountain bike madness Mountain bike competitors from around the world were in town for the 2006 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, held at Nevis Range. 400 world-class riders, 20,000 spectators, 2 days of non-stop action - the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup 2006 was awesome, despite the added challenge of some seriously heavy rain on Saturday! The weather was kinder on Sunday, clearing up in time for the extreme thrills of the downhill racing. The best riders from more than 35 countries competed in three of the most gruelling events in extreme free-sports - Downhill, 4-Cross and Cross Country. For race results visit fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk . Think you’re fit? Try adventure racing! The Wilderness Arc adventure race kicked off with a 2-hour prologue event around Fort William on the evening of Saturday 27th May, giving the competing teams (which included some of the world’s best endurance athletes) a chance to warm up and get a feel for the local terrain. The official race started on Monday 29 May and the 250 mile (400 Km) course took the competing teams through some of the most spectacular and demanding terrain of the Scottish Highlands. The teams used a mixture of outdoor skills to make their way. Trekking, night-navigation, deep-water crossings, trail running, mountain biking, kayaking, rope work – you name it, they did it! For race results and more about adventure racing visit www.aceraces.co.uk/wildernessarc Sailing the high seas The week-long Sail Caledonia event (a race and moving festival of small boats up the Caledonian Canal from Fort William to Inverness) kicked off in fine style on Saturday 27th May, with a regatta on Loch Linnhe, followed by a procession through the picturesque locks of Neptune’s staircase in Banavie, Fort William. It was certainly a sight to behold and many spectators came along to cheer the racers on and admire the fleet. For more details visit www.sailcaledonia.org Party time in the Fort! Fort William’s first ever ‘Party in the Fort’ was aresounding success. Despite initial concerns over wet weather, the show went on in fine style and theskiescleared up nicely in time for the evening’s main events. Up to 3,000 people packed into the high street to enjoy the range of activities on offer. Family events ran from noon, with a bucking bronco, sumo-wrestling, climbing wall and a bungee run to entertain children and adults alike. To tempt the taste buds, delicioussnacks from local food producers and restaurantswere cooked up fresh at the 'Lochaber Larder' food tent. Awesome stunt bike riders, fire swingers and street entertainers kept everyone amused into the evening, when the music kicked off on the main stage. With shops, cafes and bars all open late, there was something for everyone. The all-day party finished in a blaze of triumph at midnight with a fire-swinger performing alongside the fabulous band ‘Peatbog Faeries’, whose blistering performancedrew an enthusiastic audience of almost 2,000to the town square. If you couldn’t join us this time, make sure you’re here to celebrate the next Par Sun, 4 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1155 Wilderness Arc Adventure Racerecently announced details of the 2007 World Challenge, which will again take place in Lochaber. The event will be held over 500km of Lochaber terrain between 24 May and 3 June and will require teams to kayak, run, and climb over mountains, rivers and glens with minimal support in the shortest possible time. It has been confirmed that a maximum of 45 teams will be allowed to take part in the event. Organisers say that the Highlands offered the most suitable terrain for the challenge and after successful events in the last two years were looking forward to the race as the highlight of the 2007 racing season. Race Director Phil Humphreys is looking forward to welcoming the best adventure racing teams in the world to Scotland , but points out that the course and entry criteria allow for any experienced team to compete. “Within the race we will also have the option of an ‘adventure course’, for those teams who find the World Championship distance too much, but still wish to achieve a finish at Wilderness ARC and experience the Scottish wilderness. “With the sport of adventure racing continuing to expand and grow worldwide we expect to host teams from as many countries as possible, alongside a strong entry from teams in the British Isles . We want ARWC 2007 in Scotland to be a celebration of the very best of worldwide Adventure Racing.” Click here for more information from Wilderness Arc. Fri, 21 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1109 After the World Cup Mountain bike championships three weeks ago, there was an air of quiet confidence that the weather could not do it again, however on Saturday morning the 800 plus mountain bikers gathered at Lochaber Rural Complex for the second10 Under the Ben were bracing themselves for the sequel. 10 UNDER THE BEN is an endurance mountain bike event. 10 hours of riding, a 10 mile course, at the foot of Ben Nevis. Orginisers Lochaber based No Fuss aims for the event are to appeal to a broad range of riders, to be as inclusive as possible. If you are new to riding you can ride as part of a four person relay team of friends, just for fun. If you are experienced and looking for a challenge, try riding solo! 10 Under the Ben combines great riding on the World Cup Witches Trail with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with a dose of efficient organization added! Held at the Lochaber Rural Complex, it must be one of the few UK mountain bike events with an indoor base. At 0930 competitors gathered at the new Forestry Car Park at Nevis range where team mates and spectators were treated to the spectacle of 363 riders setting of back towards the Rural Complex and into the forest, this year saw riders having to dismount and walk through the transition area to the sound of the pipes spectators were able to enjoy the action out on the Thompson’s trail courtesy of the Big Screen, camera and sound system supplied by John Haggerty of Inverlochy. Riders were treated to what is being touted as the best course on the endurance mountain bike calendar, with some new bits of single trail being kept secret until the day before the event some of the local teams had to quickly change team strategies, there was a healthy mix of technical sections, open fire road and fast flowing trails. Throughout the day riders spectators and family and friends were treated to entertainment in the form of local band Skales and Funk Rock band Lost Reality, MC for the day was Johnny Meres, a Perrier nominated comedian and writer. Evening entertainment was provided by The Raggaels from Glasgow and those who managed to stay awake and enjoy the evening were treated to a brilliant night of music, one rider from Cumbria commented that he would come back just for the band if No Fuss could arrange that for another weekend as well as the race. No Fuss are delighted with the way the race has been received by everyone a special mention goes to the marshals who made every rider welcome and gave that extra encouragement they needed to keep going the full 10 hours. No Fuss are looking forward their next event the Big Triathlon in September which will see competitors Swim 1900m in Loch Linnie a 90km Mountain Bike Ride followed by a 21km run up and down Ben Nevis. 10 Under the Ben Results: Mens Solo 1st Ken Russell 11 laps Ladies Solo 1st Elaine Hopley 8 laps Male Pairs 1st James Sanford & 12 laps Ewan Thorburn Ladies Pairs 1st Aelish O’Rourke & 8 laps Karen MacInnes Mixed Pairs 1st Iona Robertson & 10 laps Richard Wild Male Trios 1st Gavin, James and 12 laps John Shirley Female Trios 1st Three Wise Monkies9 laps Mixed Trios 1st Peter Beattie&nbsp Mon, 26 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3390 No-one can accuse The National Trust for Scotland of not moving with the times, as this week they produced a downloadable podcast which will take visitorson afascinating tour of the dramatic landscape of Glencoe. The Trust rangers offer information on how to spot wildlife in the area, and give an insight into the tragic 17th-century massacre. NTS marketing manager Clare Willis said: "Glencoe is an amazing place for walks and there is so much to see. Joining a guided tour or a ranger-led walk is a great way to learn more, but it's just not convenient for every visitor. "Free podcasts give us a great opportunity to highlight the very best of the trust's properties. "Whether it's a secluded spot in a beautiful garden, an impressive mountain vista or a fascinating fact about village life, there is something extra in there for our visitors. "We hope the downloads will be used by visitors of all ages who want to get even more out of their time at a trust property." The second in a series of six walking podcasts available for free at www.nts.org.uk/multimedia , the download features the trust's Glencoe ranger Scott McCombie. Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3467 The 2008 Round Britain Offshore Powerboat Race hit the Highlands yesterday for only the third time in 39 years. Having powered around the south and west coasts of the UK over the last 4 days, Wednesday was a chance for some of the boats to take things easy as they made their way from west to east along the Caledonian Canal. However, some of the larger boats had to make the transition by road as the 5 mile an hour speed limit on the canal could have blown their engines! According to the race's official website : "The transit of the Caledonian Canal is a seminal moment in the circuit of Britain and some teams professed to be doing the race just to experience it." See them making their way along the canal on the Race Website . Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3490 Having covered389 nautical miles, not to mention scaling Snowdonia, Sca Fell and Ben Nevis, in less than 3 days, the JourneyMaker 5 team crossed the finish line today a mere 19 minutes ahead of their rivals, EADS Innovation Works. The runners for the winning team included Greg Marsh, who became the first man to ever to win as a runner and as a skipper (on his boat Vlad the Impaler in 2007). For full race reports and photos , visit the official 3 Peaks Yacht Race website Tue, 1 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=559 In a great scoop for Fort William and Lochaber, two of the area’s mountain biking events have been nominated for the “Best Event of the Year” award by Singletrack magazine. The award is voted for by readers of Singletrack, the UK’s biggest cycling website and cult mountain bike magazine. The Fort William Mountain Bike World Cup Finals were expecting a nomination, which they received, and it was also a very pleasant surprise for No Fuss, the organisers of the 10 Under the Ben event, held for the first time in June of this year in Leanachan Forest. Ruari Watt, of No Fuss said “We knew it went well, and to be nominated for such a prestigious award in our first year is fantastic. We had over 500 riders this year and from the feedback it’s going to be even bigger and better in 2006.” 10 Under the Ben started as an idea to bring more cyclists and tourists to Fort William to keep the town busy during the shoulder months of the summer season. In its inaugural year the event far exceeded expectations and next year the organisers expect to have over 700 riders at a relaxed and friendly event suitable for all abilities. The success of the two events in gaining recognition further enforces Lochaber’s place as the Outdoor Capital of the UK. With a varied and expanding events calendar the area is fast becoming recognised as a venue for local, national and international events. To vote for 10 Under the Ben, and find out more about the event visit www.singletrackworld.com. Wed, 21 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3566 The new Gaelic television channel - BBC ALBA - will be launched on 19 September, it has been confirmed. The channel will be available on satellite and cable throughout the UK, with content also available online. BBC ALBA will offer a new and enhanced service to the Gaelic audience and will also reach out to the wider audience by offering a range of attractive and compelling programmes. Highlights on the first night will include a new drama starring Greg Hemphill as Elvis and a live concert from the Isle of Skye featuring some of Scotland's best musical talent.Over the coming monthsthe channel willbe broadcasting a wide range of sport, news, children's programmes, documentaries and entertainment to appeal to young and old alike. BBC ALBA will be available on Freeview, in Scotland only, after the digital switchover, subject to review by the BBC Trust. Thu, 14 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3734 Sunday 19th October proved to be a momentous evening for Dave & Claire MacLeod as their film, Echo Wall, not only received its premiere at the Edinburgh Mountain Film Festival , but went on to be named 'Best Climbing Film', then 'Best Film' for 2008. The film charts Dave's preparation and climbof Echo Wall, high on the north face of Ben Nevis,as he makes the first ascent of what is a strong contender for the world’s hardest traditional rock climb. Many congratulations go out to Dave & Claire, especially when you consider, as Claire says, she "only turned a camera on for the first time last March!". For more information and the inside story of the night, visit Claire's blog and Dave's website . Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1879 See our members' current special offers for a great break in the Outdoor Capital. Princes House Hotel – 01397 722 246 Enjoy a ‘Taste of Glenfinnan’ with a fantastic 2-night break at the Princes House Hotel, Glenfinnan. Break includes dinner, bed & breakfast, plus Eagle Watch wildlife cruise on Loch Sheil and entry to the National Trust Glenfinnan Visitor Centre. All for only £160 pp. Call for details and mention ‘OCUK offer’ Rockhopper Sea Kayaking – 07739 837 344 Grab a great late deal on multi-day sea kaying trips in June. Learn new skills on a three-day sea-kayaking introduction course on 15/16/17 June. All kayaking equipment, 2 nights B&B and lunches included - £229 pp. Tulloch Outdoor Activity Centre - 0845 0945513 Choose your favourite activities from quad-biking,canyoning or gorge walking, white water or scenic rafting trips,funyakking, clay shooting, paintball, 4x4 driving and mountain biking. Choose 2 of your favourites on a Double Whammy Dayfor £75, 3 activities for £110 onaTriple Whammy Dayor go all out with the Awesome Foursome - £140 for 4 activites - a guaranteed weekend of fun and adventure! Snowgoose Mountain Centre – 01397 772 467 Enjoy the perfect outdoor adventure break for families this summer and grab a Family Freedom Break (for children 8+). Book for 5 nights in the hostel bunkhouse (Sunday – Thursday) and only pay for 4! Enjoy outdoor activities as a family with the great value ‘Family Activity Day Tickets’ or have a break and let the kids enjoy a huge range of supervised outdoor activities from 9.30am – 4.30pm. Available June – September 2007. See the website for activities or call for more info. Vertical Descents – 01855 821 593 Get a 20% saving on group bookings for under 18s in June. Activities include canyoning, abseiling, white water rafting, fun-yakking, gorge walking, target sports and paintball. Perfect for school or youth groups. Call for further details. Birchbrae Luxury Lodges – 01855 821 261 Treat yourself to a break in one of Birchbrae’s luxury self-catering lodges, just 8 miles south of Fort William. Special offers are available till the end of July – book online or call for details. Fri, 25 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4156 The 2009 Nissan UCI Mountain Bike World Cup website is now live. You can use it to plan your trip, see what’s coming and swot up on all the facts and figures. It features some great Nissan Sports Adventure movies from the 2008 event and it will be constantly updated with all the latest news and essential information. You can also sign up for their newsletter so that you get to hear all the latest news first (though the News section of the Outdoor Capital website is never far behind!). Go there now at www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2297 Not for the faint of heart, this year’s Big Triathlon will take place on Saturday 29th September in the heart of Lochaber, the UK’s Outdoor Capital. Organised by local company No Fuss Events, the Big Triathlon is a multi-disciplinary sporting challenge for those who like it ‘epic’. The Big Triathlon will offer competitors the opportunity to test their skills, stamina and endurance away from smooth, predictable tarmac and calm inland waters of other more traditional ‘tri’ events. Under the foreboding shadow of Ben Nevis, our intrepid athletes will endure a 1.9km loch swim in the choppy, icy waters of Loch Linnhe, a 90km mountain bike ride and a 21km run up, and then back down the slopes of Ben Nevis! The No Fuss Events team have shaken up the traditional Triathlon format by introducing elements from the extreme ‘x-terra’ triathlon series, such as replacing the road biking with mountain biking and requiring competitors to complete an off-road mountain run, rather than the traditional ‘road run’. No Fuss Events staged the first Big Triathlon in 2006. Its success gained it recognition amongst the multi-sport athletes and it has been nominated as a contender for one of the Ten Toughest Triathlons in the UK. In 2006, 39 competitors started the event. In 2007 there are already 80 competitors signed up to take part. The 80 competitors will be giving it their all tomorrow (Sat 29th)and there's sure to be a great night of celebrations at the Ben Nevis Inn afterwards! If you're in the Fort William area come along to the Inn at the foot of Ben Nevis to join in the fun! Fri, 28 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2549 Cameron McNeish opened a great new path today,that makes accessing the North Face of Ben Nevis a lot more pleasant.Upgrading the rather muddy start to the Alt a' Mhuilinn path into the North Face of Ben Nevis has been on a lot of people's wish lists for a long time. It wasfirst mooted approximately 6 years ago by the Lochaber Mountain Access Group ,and ealier this year the Forestry Commission were able to purchase a key piece of woodland. With support and help from the Nevis Partnership, HIE Lochaber and Scottish Natural Heritage a new path has been put in. There are several great view points including a detour that goes onto a knoll in the forest that gives one of the best views of Ben Nevis's awe inspiraing buttresses and ridges. The path is steep in parts but despite some recent very wet weather was easy and pleasant to walk on today. The path is accessed from the North Face car park, north of Fort William on the A82 - follow signs at Torlundy for the North Face car park. For more information on the Nevis Partnership go to www.nevispartnership.co.uk Mon, 10 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1722 TODAYIS A GREAT DAY FOR SKIING - LET'S MAKE THE MOST OF IT! As a result of the recent heavy snow showers and 2" more overnight, there is ample skiing for all standards at both Nevis Range and Glencoe ski areas. This time it looks hopeful for the winds to settle. If you are a powder hound - be here!Both areas arehoping to open up more of their mountains as the week progresses, so take a day off later in the week and head for the slopes. Before travelling check conditions at the SkiScotland website http://ski.visitscotland.com/conditions/ Nevis Range alsohave couple of great events on this weekend. So why not enter? Can you cycle, run, ski or board? Put a team together for the Park to Peak Challenge or enter the Slopestyle competition on Saturday. See www.nevis-range.co.uk for more information, or see below for further links: Saturday 24th March: PARK 2 PEAK TRIATHLON - Cycle, run and ski in a winter adventure race. Entries available at http://www.nofussevents.co.uk/Local%20events/Local_home.htm BIG AIR AND SLOPESTYLE COMPETITION at Summit Terrain park. Entries on http://www.snsc.demon.co.uk/calendar/snowboard_entry_form.pdf Tue, 20 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4158 Owing to dangerous ice on the approach road to the famous North Face of Ben Nevis Car Park, the Forestry Commission decided today, 11th of Feb 2009, to shut the car park. The road today was treacherous due to rain early last night which then froze on top of snowy, cold ground. The road this morning was impassable even by Landrover. The Forestry Commission will endeavor to get the car park open as soon as possible but currently (4.30pm on the 11th) skies are clear and it is expected to freeze again over night. Climbers wishing to use the car park should drive as though going to the car park, go over the bridge controlled lights and then park on the approach to the car park. Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3564 Celebrated Lochaber climber, Dave McLeod , has completed a big new route on Ben Nevis . After much intensive preparation,conditions were perfect onMonday28th July when he successfully led his first ascent of Echo Wall, supported by his wife Claire and friend Kev Shield. For the full story and photos, check out Dave's blog . Thu, 7 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3945 PROJECT ADMINISTRATOR Fort William The Outdoor Capital of the UK, an award-winning not-for-profit tourism development company, seeks an Administrator to assist and support a small team Salary £15,000 pa We’re looking for a person with proven experience and skills in: • Office administration, including financial • Working with varied funding bodies • Working with community, membership groups, and local businesses If this sounds like you read the downloadable information and then download the job description, and application form here or contact the Outdoor Capital office on 01397 705765 Closing date: 28th January 2009 Interviews will be held in Fort William on 6th February 2009. This one year post is funded by the European Regional Development Fund, HIE and the Highland Council Thu, 8 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2754 A new mountain bike endurance from No Fuss Events adds even more thrills and spills to a packed sporting calendar in the Outdoor Capital of the UK. The new Fort William Downhill Endurance race will be staged in September on the internationally renowned downhill track at Nevis Range , near Fort William, which last year hosted the UCI mountain bike world championships to great acclaim. The new event isjust one of a gruelling series of open endurance sporting events runby Fort William-based company No Fuss Events . Bikers in the new Downhill Endurance will need physical strength, quick reflexes and superb cycle control in tackling the downhill track at Nevis Range, with the aim of completing as many circuits as possible in six hours. In normal downhill events riders race individually against the clock but this will use a Le Mans-style mass start. Other events planned for Lochaber include the Ten under the Ben (part of the Three Tens Series run in Lochaber, Moray and Kirroughtree) and Relentless 24, cross-country mountain bike endurance events at venues across Scotland, and the Big Ben Nevis Triathlon . This yearNo fuss is also bringing back the popular two-mile Glen Nevis River Race - but it's not for the faint-hearted: it's widely regarded as one of the world's top 25 most dangerous events! The river race on July 19 sees competitors navigating the Gurgling Gorge, the Leg Breaker and the Lower Falls Leap aboard rubber inflatable air beds. Proceeds will again go to Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team (one of the UK's busiest teams). And don't forget, there's the Wee Triathlon on Sunday 17th February! Check out www.nofussevents.co.uk for info and entry details for all the races. Fri, 1 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4002 Sadler and Starlight owners across the UK and Ireland are being invited to Lochaber at the end of May. Hosted by Lochaber Watersports in Ballachulish, a week-long rally will encourage yachts to visit this unspoilt area and to give local Sadler owners the opportunity of setting up a branch of the Sadler and Starlight Owners’ Association. Speaking about the rally, Nigel Thomas, President of the Association said: “Sadler and Starlight owners in the West of Scotland haven’t had a branch before and this rally will give them the opportunity to meet with other owners to sail and enjoy some social events amongst some of the most spectacular sailing scenery in the UK. A local branch would organise its own events and benefit from being part of a bigger organisation.” The rally will start on Saturday 30 May with events and trips through to Saturday 6 June. Sadlers and Starlights are welcome to join the rally for all or some of the week. For more information, contact Sean Bish who is organising the rally on info@ethos-pr.com Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3163 If you’ve already been to a World Cup or the World Championships in Fort William you are part of the team that has made it such a famous name in global mountain biking, and you know what to expect. If you are a keen mountain biker, the chances are you’ve heard of Fort William, but if you've never made it up before now’s the time to make the journey to see for yourself what all the fuss is about. And if you don’t know the first thing about mountain biking and its stars but you want a great day out in a very special location come and join us in the Highlands this June. This will be the one opportunity in the UK to see all the potential Cross Country Olympic medal winners in action as they prepare for Beijing. Best riders. Best courses. Best crowds. Best be here... from 6-8 June 2008. Tickets go on sale in first week of April. To find out more and to buy tickets visit www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2482 Outdoor Capital of the UK member, The Old Forge pub, Inverie, is the proud winner of the ‘Best Visitor Experience’ award in the 2007 Highlands & Islands Tourism Awards . So, what is it that makes the Old Forge so special? Well, you’ll have to discover it for yourself to really get a feel for the experience. In the meantime, check out www.theoldforge.co.uk to find out more about this award-winning pub. Situated in the heart of the highland village of Inverie in the ‘rough bounds’ of Knoydart , the Old Forge is the UK’s most remote mainland pub - with no roads into this wilderness area of Lochaber in the west highlands,the only options for getting there for a drink are an 18-mile hike over the rugged Munros of Knoydart or a 7-mile sea crossing from the nearby fishing port of Mallaig . But, as the award shows – it’s well worth the effort! The Old Forge’s remoteness certainly hasn’t hindered its popularity – in fact, it’s a big part of the unique appeal of this lively village pub that specialises in good craic, live folk music and fresher-than-fresh local seafood. So next time you feel like an escape from the everyday, pack your boots and head for the hills of Knoydart to work up an appetite for a lunch or evening in the Old Forge (or if that’s a bit too much like hard work at this time of year, catch the ferry from Mallaig for a relaxing day out). For more fantastic outdoor experiences in the Highlands, see our activities section. Well done to all the team at the Old Forge! Sun, 25 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3963 The Big Garden Birdwatch is the world's biggest bird survey, providing the RSPB with a vital snapshot of the UK's birds each winter. Help them celebrate their 30th birthday over the weekend of 24-25 January - it's easy, it's fun and only takes an hour. All you need to do is watch your garden or local park for an hour on either Saturday 24 or Sunday 25 January 2009. Simply record the highest number of each species seen in your garden (not flying over) at any one time. You can then record your results online. You can find lots more information anda downloadable counting sheet at the RSPB website . Mon, 19 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3339 A number of competitors from The Glen Nevis River Race 2008 today tested the extreme two-mile course ahead of the challenging fundraising event to be staged on Saturday 19 July 2008. Clutching their air-beds (lilos), the intrepid adventurers navigated down river through rocks, rapids and deep, narrow gorge pools before jumping off the 30ft high Lower Falls waterfall (the Lower Falls Leap), one of the last of many obstacles on the course. The local athletes were kitted out in wetsuits, crash helmets, life vests and carried inflatable devices of assorted shapes and sizes, including sheep, crocodiles and the Loch Ness monster! BACKGROUND TO THE GLEN NEVIS RIVER RACE 2008 Glen Nevis, Fort William Saturday 19 July 2008 Re-introduced to the Fort William and Lochaber (Outdoor Capital of the UK) events calendar for 2008 by No Fuss Events after a five year break, The Glen Nevis River Race involves participants navigating through the icy waters of a 2-mile stretch of the River Nevis on an air-bed (Lilo) through rocks and rapids, negotiating the Gurgling Gorge, Dead Dog Pool, the Leg Breaker and the Lower Falls Leap! In a thirty year run from 1973 to 2003 the Glen Nevis River Race enjoyed a high media and public profile as an awe inspiring spectacle, a unique challenge (for the likes of John Noakes from Blue Peter) and as a worthy fundraising event (funds raised going to Lochaber Mountain Rescue, the UK's busiest winter mountain rescue team). The time taken to complete the course, depending on the amount of water at the time, can vary from 20 minutes to over an hour. The state of the water also determines the amount of minor scrapes and bruises, although no one has been seriously injured as yet! In its thirty-year history thousands of pounds have been raised for the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team based in Fort William. The first race raised a mere £25.00 that just about bought a pair of boots. The final race in 2003 raised in the region of £10,000 which only helped to cover the cost of running the busiest team in Scotland with around 70 callouts each year. Every competitor is expected to raise his or her own sponsorship and in the past amounts over £1000 have been handed in. Previously the prizes consisted of various amounts of locally produced quality whisky and every finisher received a miniature of the same. This was administered purely for medicinal purposes. You won't see competitors with masks, flippers or other swimming aids as these are banned from the race. Entry fees are £30 / person. To enter online go to the No Fuss website For more information on the Glen Nevis River Race and to download the sponsorship form go to: http:// www.nofussevents.co.uk / Tue, 20 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3330 Looking for accommodation during the MTB World Cup? Look no further, download our accommodation directory here Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3367 This is the biggest week of the year for mountain biking in Scotland, when world class riders will return to Fort William for the seventh successive year. The current downhill course has an enviable reputation, but often proves too difficult for the majority of keen mountain bikers. The existing track will now be complemented by a 2.8km intermediate downhill track, thanks to a £67,000 investment from sportscotland. The new track will be more suited to recreational mountain bikers and those wishing to develop their skills for competition downhill biking, before progressing onto the more advanced track. Mountain biking is an exciting and growing sport in Scotland which attracts riders of all ages. It is crucial that there is a network of good quality tracks and facilities across Scotland to ensure riders from general participation to excellence level are catered for and the new track being developed at Fort William will go a long way to achieving this. In addition, the tracks at Fort William are unique as they are the only specialist mountain bike tracks in Britain that are served by a ski lift making them easily accessible. Anna Trafford, Project Director, Outdoor Capital of the UK Ltd said: “The award of the grant is great news and will enable recreational cyclists to take their riding to the next level, and to ride a downhill course at the home of the World Cup and World Championships. Facilities like this are vital if Scotland is to keep on producing champions like Ruraidh Cunningham (Junior Downhill World Champion). The community in Lochaber has been instrumental in putting this application together and our thanks go to Nevis Range, our local cycling club - the West Highland Wheelers, the Forestry Commission and Highlands and Islands Enterprise for their hard work in making this application successful. We can’t wait until it’s built so we can get out and have a go!” In her first official engagement as the new sportscotland Chair, Louise Martin CBE teamed up with Sports Minister Stewart Maxwell to announce an investment of £781,904 for sports facilities that will benefit communities across Scotland, including the world-renowned mountain bike facilities at Fort William. She said: "The investment in the new intermediate mountain bike track at Nevis Range will undoubtedly attract an increased number of mountain bikers of all ages to the area reinforcing Fort William and Lochaber as a hub for outdoor sports in Scotland.” Thu, 5 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3169 Fort William-based Scottish climberDave MacLeod has become the first man to climb the scarily named "Don't Die of Ignorance" traverse on Ben Nevis without the use of aids, more than 20 years after the route (thought to be the hardest in the UK) was last conquered. MacLeod's successful bid last Sunday was caught on camera for a climbing documentary that is to be released later this year by local film-making companyHeatherhat productions. Film-maker and amateur climber Joe French also completed the climb with MacLeod, who used a method called free climbing. This entails the climber relying solely on his body strength and skill to scale the entire route. Until last weekend, the route had only been completed once, in 1987, by climber Andy Cave, and his partner Simon Yates, who featured in the famous climbing film 'Touching The Void'. Theterrain on Ben Nevis is considered perfect for climbing and thousands flock to the mountains in Lochaber every year - a fact that partly led to the area being named Outdoor Capital of the UK three years ago. Congratulations to Dave and Joe fromthe Outdoor Capital of the UK team! Read more about the epic climb and see great pics on Dave's blog at www.davemacleod.blogspot.com This is an abridged version of an article by Catriona MacPhee in the Sunday Herald on Sunday 23rd March -read the full story here : Photo credit: Joe French Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3137 'Friends of Nevis' was launched by The Nevis Partnership to encourage individuals, families and organisations to help support and manage Ben Nevis and the surrounding Nevis area. This precious and unique environment includes mountains, wild land, glen and river Nevis and a range of visitor facilities such as a visitor centre and numerous low and higher level walks. Ben Nevis and its surroundings mean a great deal to a large number of people from all over the world. Protecting the area, whilst making it accessible and pleasurable to visit, is a real challenge and Friends of Nevis can help through subscribing, donating or contributing time and resources on a range of practical projects such as path maintenance, wildlife monitoring, fundraising etc. There are three ways tobecome a Friend of Nevis: JOIN- for a small annual subscription you can help to protect this special place VOLUNTEER - from repairing paths to fundraising or counting butterflies, you can get actively involved in maintaining this unique landscape DONATE - contribute to the vital ongoing management of the Nevis area To find out more visit www.friendsofnevis.co.uk or call 01397 701 088. Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2839 Trish Gordon from the Scottish Highland and Islands Film Commission presented prizes last night to winners of the Fort William MountainFestival film competition. Sponsored by the Outdoor Capital the winners receivedprize money and commemorative plates made by Fired Art Pottery Cafe. The winners were: Best Scottish Film '68 Degrees North' by Simon Christy of Ridestyle Productions. This film tracked the progress of a group of young Scottish skiers who flew to Greenland to make first descents of unskied peaks. Best Young Film-maker 'Mountains - they are not just for climbing' by Oliver Smith. Oliver attends Fortrose Academy and has already received the Donald Dewar Award, been a finalist at the IFF Digital Eden Competition 2006 , and has been nominated for a National Young Film-maker award and for a Bafta award, and shortlisted for the Blue Peter MyMovie Mansion competition. His short animated film describes abudding musicians search for somewhere to practice. Best Short Film by Simon Gee and John Houlihan for the 48 hour film marathan of the Adventure Film Academy a the 2007 Kendal Film Festival. This short provides a twist in the tale story of the end of a relationship. Best International Film 'Tepuy' by Pavol Barabá.This documentary film shows a group of scientists and cavers expedition to explore the unique quarzite cave systems in the Venezualan rain-forest. Exploring territory never seen before by man they discover new species and unique life forms, such as rock dissolving bacteria ,and expose themselves to great risk. All the films were worthy winners and showed the breadth and scope of interesting film-making inspired by mountain culture. Your next chance to see more international prize winnnig films is on Friday 22nd February 2008, at the Best of Banff night at the Fort William Mountain Festival Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3174 Scottish west coast communities are working together to win improvements on one of the most scenic stretches of trunk road in the United Kingdom. The A82 Tarbet – Fort William - Inverness road is famous for passing the landmark destinations of Loch Lomond, Loch Rannoch, Glencoe, Ben Nevis and Loch Ness. But it is also infamous for being narrow and winding, and having a high number of collisions. The A82 Partnership consists of MSPs, local politicians, local businesses and the police, and they are campaigning to improve the road. There is a Scottish Parliament e-petition to sign which has now become the most signed e-petition since the e-petition process was introduced by the Scottish Parliament in 2004. The petition has already attracted over 6000 signatures. The longer-term aim of the campaign is to achieve an upgrade of sections over the entire stretch from Tarbet to Inverness. However, the immediate target of the A82 Partnership is to win funds to improve the four most hazardous stretches of the road between Tarbet and Fort William, that have already been identified by Transport Scotland at a total cost of £90M. Transport Scotland is carrying out a Strategic Review of the entire Scottish transport programme at present. The aim of the campaign is to secure the commitment of the Scottish Government to regard the upgrade of the A82, between Fort William and Tarbet, as a top priority and make sure that all the work included in the £90M appears in the final programme. Help make your journey up to the Outdoor Capital safer and more pleasant to drive by signing the petition; there is just one week left to sign before the petition closes on the 4th April. To find out more about the campaign go to the A82 Partnership website Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4001 The Fort William Mountain Festival are seeking volunteers to help out during the Festival in March. Theyare looking for helpersto man the information desk, ticket booth and the door, not to mention handy types with power screwdrivers to set up and dismantle displays. As a wee thank you, you will receive a ticket for the session of your choice each time you help out. For more information and a volunteer form, click here . Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3779 Ambitious plans to re-open Fort William's former cinema have been launched in Lochaber and local film fans are being encouraged to sign up to a soon-to-be-launched free website, enabling them to have a say in what they would like screened. The Croft Digital Cinema will operate 7 days a week, screening at least two performances each evening as well as selected matinees. The latest technology will offer Dolby Digital sound reproduction and high definition digital cinema projection. Local, archive and specialist programming will be included as well as selected non-cinema presentations such as live relays of music events. Behind the project are entrepreneur Norrie MacLaren, who has a long association with the film industry as a producer, photographer and assistant to Stanley Kubrick, and Robert Linton, business manager with Fort William-based Fired Art. To show your support for this exciting new venture, download a copy of this form and register your details. Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3754 The Old Forge at Inverie, Knoydart,the pub with a pet hen, was announced The Best Independent pub in Scotland by the SLTN Scottish Licensed Trade News last Thursday evening. Presented by Kirsty Gallacher and attended by over 700 movers and shakers from the licensed trade, hotelier trade and spirits and drinks industry, The Old Forge beat off stiff competition from Oblo in Eyemouth and Moskito Bar in Glasgow. Trading since October 1992 and being the largest local employer on Knoydart they have gained a nod from those in the know, receiving the Food and Drinks Forum Award in 2005 for the Best Marketing, IIP accreditation, CAMRA affiliation, Homefire Awards, Taste of Scotland, Peter Irvine as one of Scotland’s 3 “Bloody good Pubs” and this years special commendation was welcomed from Rough Guide to Scotland as well as having been recognised in the past as 2001 Highlands and Islands best small business award winner. Earlier this year they won the title of Best Visitor Experience from the Highlands and Islands Tourism awards in Scotland. The owners Jackie and Ian said of their win “it’s great to get industry recognition, we do shoot high and it’s our Staff who deliver but the bottom line is people are important; and the hen!" Many congratulations go out to Jackie, Ian and their staff from the Outdoor Capital team. Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2524 Fort William today unveiled a Mountain Festival programme that will put the Outdoor Capital of the UK at the centre of Scotland’s events programme in 2008. One of the UK's top slackliners John Ritson launched the programme by balancing across the roaring Waters of Nevis - for a video of his daring exploits go to the Outdoor Capital blog Chairman of the Highland Mountain Culture Association, Mike Pescod said: “Our 2008 programme includes top climbers, paddlers, mountain bikers, inspirational speakers, international films and public art and will cater for everyone of all ages from extreme adrenaline junkies to outdoor enthusiasts and creative writers. “We are also delighted to be welcoming a superb line up of guests from the worlds of mountaineering, biking and paddling including Jo Gambi, Kenton Cool, Billy Savage, Cameron McNeish and Corran Addison to Fort William throughout the festival” The 2008 Fort William Mountain Festival will host the first ever UK Slacklining Championships, The UK Slacklining Masters in association with EventScotland. Slacklining is a balance sport distinct from tightrope walking in that the line is not held rigidly taut; it is instead dynamic, stretching, bouncing and swaying like a long rubber band. The dynamic nature of the line allows for impressive tricks and stunts testing both focus and nerve. On Saturday 23 February 2008 balance enthusiasts from all over the UK will battle it out to discover who is the Master of the Slackline, with spectators also able to have a go in the try out zone. After the success of previous years’ film competitions the Fort William Mountain Festival 2008 has again offered the opportunity for both amateur and professional filmmakers from across the globe to showcase their work and share their passion for sport, culture and the environment. This year the organisers have worked with the Outdoor Capital of the UK to more than double the film competition prize fund; now the best prizes in the UK for a mountain film competition. The short-listed films will receive their premieres at the Nevis Centre on Monday 18 February 2008. Entries for the film competition are being accepted until the end of Dec 2007. For more info go to www.mountainfestival.co.uk Anna Trafford, Project Director of Outdoor Capital of the UK, said: We are proud to work with the Fort William Mountain Festival in celebrating mountain culture. With significant prizes now on offer (£1000 for the best Scottish film, £1000 for best International film, £600 for best short film and £400 for best young film maker) we urge all film makers both professional and amateur who value our unique mountain heritage to enter (go to www.mountainfestival.co. uk to find out how). Here in Lochaber we are already looking forward to a great evenings entertainment watching the results of the competition. The festival will close with The Modern Face of Everest. The climber Dave MacLeod will be joined by mountaineer Kenton Cool and climber/film-maker Matt Dickinon to discuss the ethics of today’s Everest. The exciting finale will include the presentation of the inaugural Scottish Award for Excellence in Mountain Culture and the screening of the BBC Film ‘Everest The Hard Way’. For more information on the festival go to www.mountainfestival.co.uk Read the full press release here Tue, 4 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2338 The Lime Tree An Ealdhain Gallery in Fort William is hosting one of the finest visual arts exhibitions of Scotland’s year of Highland culture. You may not have heard of Highlands Open Studios yet but you soon will. Highlands Open Studios (usually abbreviated to HOS) is a pan-Highland organisation of artists, craftmakers and galleries who have joined together to promote and showcase the best of art currently available in the Highlands. It is part of a growing national trend where visual artists support each other and make direct contact with the public by all members guaranteeing to open their studios to the public at the same time on one specific week in the year. If you missed the open week in September, there is now another chance to see local artists’ work, admission free at the Lime Tree An Ealdhain. Gallery, an attractive, bright gallery run by artist- owner David Wilson. This is the second exhibition by Highlands Open Studios (HOS) and promises to be very exciting with 58 members contributing in a huge variety of media. There’s something for every artistic taste. Exhibition runs till Friday 14 November, 10am - 10pm every day. Admission free. Tue, 9 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3340 There will be an 'Open Day' for Lochaber College's BA Adventure Tourism Managementon Thursday 12th June 2008. The Open Day will be in the Adventure Tourism Management Classroom and starts at 11:00 am, lastingfor 2 hours. Refreshments will be available. For more information, please see Lochaber College's website . Tue, 20 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2666 Well everyone, we did it again! For the third year running Fort William has won the Best Mountain Bike Event in the World. The international mountain bike teams, tech support and race organizers organization (IMTTO) has awarded the prestigious "IMTTO Event Of The Year" trophy to Rare Management who were the organizers of the UCI Mountain Bike and Trials World Championships in the classic venue of Fort William, Scotland. Close to 60 members voted (teams and tech support companies only), and of the 25 events voted for, it was clear that Fort William was again the obvious favorite. Unlike other awards, this one recognizes any mountain bike event held in 2007, and is voted on by the industry main players when it comes to mountain bike racing and events. Mike Jardine from Rare Management said: 'Once again it's down to the huge team of volunteers, heads of department, medical staff, town organisers, PR team, venue staff, contractors, host broadcaster, partners and sponsors that make it all happen - and happen so well. Thanks to everyone for being part of such a special event - and we look forward to aiming for award number 4, with your help, at this year's World Cup, 6-8 June 2008.' So come spring along and ride on the world champs course - right now Nevis Range is in ski mode but we look forward to seeing you on the slopes. Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2290 Fort William shinty team triumphed over rivalsInverary in the prestigious Camanachd Cup Final 2007 in Inverness on Saturday 22 September. Broadcast live on BB2 Scotland, Fort William stormed to victory with a 3 - 1 win in the 100th final of the Cup. To find out more about thisfast-paced traditional Highland sport and to see latest fixtures, visit www.shinty.org.uk . More about shinty: Shinty isone of the fastest, physically demanding and most skilful sports in the world. Played on an outdoor surface that can be up to 155m long, shinty is about two teams of players striking a small leather ball with a curved stick, known as a caman. With the ball being hit around the field of play at speeds of over 100 miles per hour, a game of shinty is a thrilling experience for both players and spectators. Shinty evolved in the Highlands of Scotland, but is now played (by children, men and women) in other areas of Scotland, England and in the United States - testament to shinty's wide appeal. Tue, 25 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2422 ‘Lament: The Massacre of Glencoe’ is the exciting new production from community Theatre Company ‘Celts and Comrades’. This exciting new community production is part of Highland 2007 and promises to be the biggest theatre event in Lochaber this year. Over 60 actors, 10 gymnasts, 4 dancers and 5 musicians will take to the stage to perform their dramatic interpretation of the infamous event at the Nevis Centre, Fort William next week. The performers from all over Lochaber have been devising their thrilling take on this infamous piece of local history for several weeks. The play brings together performers from all over Lochaber, and of all ages (from 7 to 60 year-olds), and even includes three generations of one family. Celts & Comrades Community Theatre Company’s last grand-scale community show “Revolution” used Russian music and language. This time it’s the Gaelic language that plays a vital part of the show. This has been a challenge for the group, as most of the performers don’t actually speak Gaelic! Fortunately, help has been on hand: Ceilear, the Gaelic Choir from Ballachulish has been an inspiration and Mary Ann Kennedy has helped the performers learn the Gaelic words and melodies. Eden Court’s Gaelic Drama Worker, Debbie MacKay has also had a hand in teaching the group some “choice” Gaelic phrases. ‘Lament’ also weaves English language and song, ensemble acting, dance, gymnastics and live music through the retelling. There is even a spot of storytelling and humour to lighten the dark tale. This project is supported by Highland 2007, Eden Court Theatre, Highland Council, Bòrd na Gàidhlig and the Clanranald Trust for Scotland. Lament: The Massacre of Glencoe can be seen on Wednesday 7th, Thursday 8th and Friday 9th November, at 7.30 pm, at the Nevis Centre. Tickets cost £6/ £4 concessions, and are available from the Nevis Centre on 01397 700707 or by calling 01855 831 119. Tickets can also be booked through Eden Court Theatre box office on 01463 234 234. Thu, 1 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1780 Princess Anne opened Lochaber College's new extension today. The extension, designed by architects Kearney Donald Partnership will nearly double the space offered by Lochaber College. New facilities include a library, construction industry block, new computer facilities, video conferencing links and a business 'HUB' area with free internet access. Exciting things are happeningat the collegethat reflect the areas status as the Outdoor Capital; a new Adventure Tourism Degree is planned to start in Autumn 2007, and a Path Building course and entry level Adventure Tourism Scottish Vocational Qualification are already being taught. The Adventure Tourism SVQ works much like an apprenticeship , with students recieving a wage and gaining work experience in one of Lochaber's many outdoor activity providers. The course aims to prepare students for SVQ level 3 when they can expect to gain national governing body coaching qualifications in, for example, kayaking or climbing. An SVQ level 3 Apprenticeship course in Adventure Tourism will start this September at the college. For more information on the courses on offer at Lochaber College telephone 01397 874000 The picture shows the Princess Royal admiring a gift ofa photo of the Royal Yacht Brittannia moored in Loch Linnhe on her last visit to Fort William; with her are Councillor Michael Foxley chair of the board of Lochaber College, and College Principal Laurence Young. Wed, 11 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1966 Whilst the rest of the country has been battling the rain, an elite group of athletes have been battling the storms at sea and on the UK’s highest hills. The Barmouth to Fort William PowerBar Three Peaks Yacht Race combines yachting, mountain running and cycling into one of the greatest adventure challenges in British sport. Teams consist of three sailors and two runners, who set sail from Barmouth on the Welsh coast to Fort William in Scotland, via Caernarfon and Whitehaven, racing to the summits of Snowdon (3560ft) Scafell Pike (3208ft) and Ben Nevis (4408ft) on the way. The race which celebrates its 30th anniversary, consists of 389 miles of difficult coastal sailing, 18 miles of cycling and 72 miles of running, and a total ascent of 14,000ft to the highest points in Wales, England and Scotland. 27 boats took part and the winner, Vlad the Impaler made it to Fort William in just 3 days 9 hours and 20 minutes. Defending champions, before they race they were quoted as saying: Our priority is to enjoy the race, but there is more enjoyment when you win ... They obviously meant it! There was a hard fought battle for second place with dramatic team to team racing on the final mountain,Ben Nevis. Nanatuckwere just in the lead, ahead ofrivals Lightening Reflexas the two teams were becalmed on Loch Linnhe beside Ben Nevis. Nanatuck's crew had to row in to get their runners on land first but Lightning Reflex's runners proved faster on the hill. They clinched second place with an hour margin. Boats are still coming in with the field spread out by the challenging weather. For the latest reports, satellite tracking and leader board info. go to: www.threepeaksyachtrace.co.uk or the sleepmonsters website Wed, 27 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2172 Free shuttle buses will operate from4 locations to the World Championships Village during the week. DOWNLOAD INFO AS A PDF HERE Shuttle Bus Routes Route 1: only goes to Fort William town centre (pick ups from the service bus stops opposite the police station, on Middle St, behind the post office, between Ellis Brigham and the Lochaber Leisure Complex and opposite Nevis Bank Hotel (near Glen Nevis roundabout) Route 2 : goes to Carr's Corner, the High School, Banavie and Corpach with a number of marked stops. Route 3 : goes to Spean Bridge. Friday, Saturday and Sunday only Route 4: goes from Accreditation Centre at The Rural Complex to the Worlds Village Shuttle Bus Timetable Monday 3rd Sept 09.00 - 17.00 Continuous shuttle Route 4 Tuesday 4th Sept 08.30 - 17.00 Every hour on Route 1 and 2 08.30 – 17.00 Continuous shuttle Route 4 Wednesday 5th Sept 08.30 - 20.00 Every hour Route 1 and 2 08.30 – 20.00 Continuous shuttle Route 4 Thursday 6th Sept 08.30 - 20.30 Every hour Route 1 and 2 08.30 – 20.30 Continuous shuttle Route 4 Friday 7th Sept 08.00 – 16.00 Every hour Route 1 and 2 08.00 - 22.00 Continuous shuttle Route 4 16.00 - 22.00 Every 30 min Route 1 and 2 16.00 – 22.00 Every hour Route 3 Saturday 8th Sept 08.00 - 18.00 Continuous shuttle Route 4 08.00, 0830, then 0845 – 18.00 Route 1 08.00 - 10.00 every hour then 10.15 – 18.00 every 15 min Route 2 09.00 – 18.00 Every hour Route 3 Sunday 9th Sept 07.30 - 17.00 Continuous shuttle Route 4 07.30, 08.00, 0830, then 0845 – 17.00 every 15 min Route 1 07.30 - 10.00 every 30 mins then 10.15 – 17.00 every 15 min Route 2 09.00 – 17.00 Route 3 Mon, 3 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3665 The shortlist for the 2008 Highlands and Islands Tourism Awards has been announced and we are delighted to report that 2 members of the Outdoor Capital of theUK have been nominated. The Ice Factor inKinlochlevenisa strong contender in the BestVisitor Experience category, while the Princes House Hotel in Glenfinnanis in the running for the Highland Dining Out Experienceaward. The awards scheme is recognised as one of the most coveted in the industry and is designed to reflect the high quality, diversity and innovation synonymous with tourism today in the Highlands and Islands. Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=777 To enter the competition please email us Find your way to the Outdoor Capital and win one of four great GPS prizes worth over £860. The Magellan eXplorist range of GPS are both rugged and reliable, compact and yet pack with features and there is no better place to test them out than in the Outdoor Capital. First prize in the MAgellan eXplorist XL with 30MB of memory, 3.5" colour screen, unlimited SD expandability plus many more features. You need never be lost again - and it's waterproof to booth! RRP £399 There are two runners up prizes of the Magellan eXplorist 300, with 8MB of memory, compass, barometer and altimeter built in. RRP £180 Third prize is the Magellan eXplorist 100, a great entry level GPS. RRP £100 Wed, 8 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1088 And you thought it was time to relax after the Bank Holiday weekend... A whole host of events for the 17th and 18th of June Not pausing for breath there’s another full weekend of the outdoors in Lochaber this weekend. One of the country’s biggest mass participation mountain biking events kicks off on Saturday 17th. 10 Under the Ben does exactly what it says and challenges mountain bikers to do as many circuits of the testing course as they can in 10 hours! The event takes place in Leanachan Forest and the event base is at the Lochaber Rural complex, have a look at www.10undertheben.com to see whose going and what’s happening. The track takes in part of the Mountain Bike World Cup cross country course and there’s also some new single track built specifically for the event by the organisers. Also starting on Saturday morning is the Lochaber Yacht club regatta which host a whole series of boat races over two days. Racing starts at 12.30pm on Saturday and has both dingy and keelboat racing – walk south out of Fort William along Achintore Road and cheer the boats on from the shores of Loch Linnhe! The Island of Muck is holding its annual open day on Sunday 18th June, get the ferry from Arisaig (www.arisaig.co.uk), get a guided tour of the island, get some great tea and scones and enjoy the fantastic scenery around the west coast of Lochaber. There have already been a lot of sighting of basking sharks, whales and dolphins off the coast and you may be lucky! There is also a full weekend of shinty with Kilmallie taking on Newtonmore at Canal Parks, Caol and Fort William taking on another Newtonmore side in a North Divison Two game at An Aird Park, Fort William. The throw up time is 2.30pm on both games so go along and see this fast paced Highland Game being played by some of the Highland’s best teams! And last but definitely not least you can find out more about what those fabulous mountain rescue boys get up to on a Glencoe Mountain Rescue display day at the Glencoe National Trust Centre. The Glencoe Mountain Rescue team are one of the busiest teams in the country head along from 11am to find out what goes on behind the scenes. One last note (really last this time!) - good luck to all those participating the Caledonian Challenge, a 24 hour event where participants raise (an awful lot) of money for charity walking the West Highland Way non-stop, it really is a weekend for those with stamina! Thu, 15 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1035 ...Join in on seven days of sensational walking up, over and between the remote and rugged mountains of Lochaber, centred on Ben Nevis and Fort William. This brand new event takes place on the 10th - 16th September and offers an exciting, enjoyable and sometimes challenging selection of walks. The highlights of the festival include: • Large variety of routes, difficulty and strenuousness every day. • Themed walks and other low level routes of outstanding interest. • Seven Day Packages with or without accommodation • A full programme of evening events from ceilidhs to weather and equipment lectures • A guided tour to Skye on the Wednesday. (For those with energy who do not need a break there will still be a full programme of guided walks on the Skye trip day) Totally immerse yourself in a Lochaber experience. WALKLOCHABER is offering a seven day package for adventurous walkers to enjoy the magnificent mountains and glens around Lochaber. Find out more at www.walklochaber.com Mon, 15 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1507 After a teasing start with a huge dump of snowin November, it’s finally time to dig out your skis and snowboards - winter is officially here and Nevis Range was able to start 2007 off ona high when it opened the slopes to enthusiastic skiiers and boarders on 2nd January.Talk aboutthe perfect hangover cure!The Summit, Goose & Alpha runs were openfor skiingand boarding and conditions were good, suitable for intermediate level and above. After last year's late start to the season which saw great skiing in Lochaber until well into April, it's wonderful to start getting out there so soon in the New Year. Keep an eye on www.nevisrange.co.uk for up-to-date ski reports, eventsand web-cam images. Gondola and restaurant open daily from9.30am – 4pm. Fri, 5 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1093 The Fort William UCI Mountain Bike World Cup 2005 hasrecently been named the ‘Mountain Bike Event of the Year’ by the IMTTO, whose membership is made up of international mountain bike teams, technical support companies, and top level organisers. Martin Whiteley, Vice President of the International Mountain Bike Trade Teams Organisation (IMTTO) called the event “the model that all other major events should try to emulate”. Martin Whiteley said "Fort William was a clear winner in the voting and it's no secret why. They go out of their way to assist our members and put on a consistently impressive bike event. If you are serious about running a great event, visit Fort William first." The Fort William World Cup held at Nevis Range, upstaged more than 30 other popular international mountain biking events from USA and Portugal to Italy. Event organisers Rare Management were delighted with the award and said it is just reward for all the hard work by everyone in Lochaber who helped ensure its success. Further information For results from the 2006 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup at Fort William, click here . For more about mountain biking at Nevis Range, click here . For more about the IMTTO click here . Mon, 19 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1825 THE UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE & TRIALS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Powered by Nissan Sports Adventure FORT WILLIAM, SCOTLAND – 03 – 09 SEPTEMBER 2007 The Highlands of Scotland came to Londonlastweek,when10 of Britain’s leading mountain bikers descended on Trafalgar Square to promote the UCI Mountain Bike and Trials World Championships, taking place in Fort William, Scotland, from 3 to 9 September 2007. Local MP, the Rt Hon Charles Kennedy, (MP for Ross, Skye and Lochaber) joined event organisers and the athletes, to unveil some exciting news about a British sporting success story and one of the biggest participation sports in the UK. The 2007 UCI Mountain Bike and Trials World Championships - powered by Nissan Sports Adventure – is not only the first ever mountain bike World Championships to be staged in the UK, it is also one of the highlights of Highland 2007 – the year Scotland celebrates Highland culture. In September more than 700 of the World’s top riders from more than 50 nations, riding for country rather than for trade teams and sponsors, will descend upon Scotland to compete across the four mountain bike disciplines of Cross Country, Downhill, 4-Cross and Trials for a total of 19 World Championship titles. With Nissan Sports Adventure as major sponsor, the Fort William World Championships will set a new standard for global mountain biking, complemented by the significant level of partner funding from UK Sport, EventScotland, Forestry Commission Scotland, VisitScotland, and Highland 2007. Wed, 2 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1811 FORT RESTAURANT NOMINATED AS ‘NEW SCOTTISH RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR 2007’ The new Lime Tree Restaurant on Achintore Road, Fort William has been shortlisted for an award in the prestigious 11th Annual Scottish Chef Awards to be held in Glasgow in May. The Scottish Chef Awards are the most prestigious event in the Scottish culinary calendar. The shortlisting of the Lime Tree Restaurant in Fort William is an amazing result for a restaurant that opened just 16 weeks ago. Michelin Award winning Head Chef Allan Donald, a previous winner of the Scottish Chef of the Year said: ‘ This nomination vindicates our efforts to bring the highest quality of fresh food cooking at a reasonable price to the centre of Fort William. At the Lime Tree we have set out to do something special with food, by serving food fresh. What I mean is that nothing served here is cooked off-site, brought in prepared in advance. All our dishes start as raw ingredients and through our skills as chefs, are made into something special.’ David Wilson, proprietor of the Lime Tree commented: ‘I’m very pleased that our efforts are starting to be noticed by the Edinburgh ‘cognoscenti’ It been far to easy for city based critics to put down our Town and not see the quality of things available here. The recent Shackleton Exhibition attracted over 3000 visitors to the Lime Tree, many stopping to enjoy Allan Donald’s excellent food.' PHOTO: The Lime Tree Restaurant being opened by Charles Kennedy MP. From left to right: Katie Lamont, Charlotte Wright, David Wilson, Charles Kennedy MP, Allan Donald and Sarah Kennedy Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1851 The new UCI World Championships Downhill course is now open to the public! It opened on 12 May and will be available to 27 August inclusive, opening times 11am - 3pm. Apart from some special World Championships features, just for the Worlds week in September, this will be the same course as the stars will ride. If you are planning a visit, remember it is a full-on downhill, very tough and very long. It’s a great chance to test yourself on one of the most demanding courses in the world. And the good news is that youdon't have toslogyour way UP the hillfirst -bikes can be carried on the Nevis Range Gondola between 10:30 – 14:45. So, the question is, are you feeling brave?? See www.nevisrange.co.uk for directions to Nevis Range, ticket prices and further info. Fri, 18 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3666 The John Muir Trust is accepting entries for the 2009 Wild Writing Competition at the Fort William Mountain Festival . The competition, which is free and open to all, encourages both aspiring and professional writers to pen stories about Scotland’s landscapes and wild places. Now running in its third year, the competition attracted over 50 high quality entries in 2008. It is hoped that the Gaelic, poetry and children categories will extend the reach of this year’s competition. The closing date is the 26th of January 2009 for entries (not exceeding 1200 words) in English or Gaelic. Entries selected for final consideration will be exhibited at the 2009 Fort William Mountain Festival. The winning article will be published in the John Muir Trust Journal. For more details and to download an entry form, visit the John Muir Trust's website . Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1627 Entry for the Wilderness ARC, the 2007 Adventure Racing World Championship, taking place in Fort William and Lochaber from 24 May until 3 June 2007, has now closed. The Wilderness Arc is the culmination of the Adventure Racing World Series which is is an international circuit of premier adventure races in 8 countries. The race has been heavily oversubscribed with more than 80 of the World's leading adventure race teams from more than 20 nations applying to secure one of only 45 coveted places. Race organisers, ACE Races and Detail Events, have been so overwhelmed by this unprecedented response they have not only reviewed and revised their entry criteria, they have also overcome some logistical obstacles in order to increase the field from 45 to 60 mixed teams of four extreme endurance athletes. The teams include the world's finest adventure racing squads from round the world, from 22 countries including the UK, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, Trinidad, South Africa, Sweden and the United States. The current hot favourites, at this early stage, are the awesome Team Adventure Sport (NZ) and Team Nike (USA). The teams will race unsupported over a 500km course, with over 25,000m of ascent through the spectacular and rugged landscape of the Western Highlands of Scotland, one of Europe's last great wilderness areas. They will be guaranteed an epic adventure with a mix of uncompromising challenges involving navigation, mountain biking, mountain running, kayaking, climbing, abseiling, mountaineering, river crossing, canyoning and open water swimming, with the terrain and unpredictable weather throwing up many surprises. As with all adventure races, dedicated team-work, meticulous planning and cunning strategy, coupled with awesome mental and physical stamina, will be key requirements of this massive test of mind, body and spirit. The course will be kept a closely guarded secret until the eve of the event. It will be designed by Gary Tompsett, who has devised many of the UK's most demanding and memorable endurance events, including the two previous Wilderness ARC races. A final entry list will be published on 19 February on the event website - http:// www.arwc2007.com /. Fri, 16 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1250 Conditions could not have been better for the UK’s first-ever ‘Big Triathlon’ in Fort William on Saturday 23rd September. At 0715 a great cheer went up from the parapets of the old Fort on the shores of Loch Linnhe as friends, family and spectators encouraged the 37 hardy triathletes on their way. After a brisk 1.9km swim in Fort William's sea loch, the athletes jumped on their bikes for a challenging 90km-mountain bike ride around Cow Hill and Glen Nevis. After the bike section, perhaps the biggest challenge of the tri awaited - the 21km run, which was not just any run - oh no, the competitors had to run to the summit of the UK's highest mountain, Ben Nevis and back! Many local runners turned out to support the competitors on their run up Ben Nevis, operating a buddy system to run alongsidethem on the top half of the Ben route. A spoksman for event organisers, No Fuss Events said “This event has been a great advert for the people of Lochaber. Everyone has really got behind the event and the feedback from the competitors has been phenomenal, some calling it “the toughest and yet the friendliest event ever”. Overall winner was Donald Paterson (Fort William) in an amazing 6hrs and 57mins, in second place was Eliot Challifour (Bath) in a time of 7hr 27mins, and in third place Paul Currant (Dundee) of 7hrs 33mins. First (and only) lady competitor, Sian Tovey completed in 9hrs 43mins. Full race results are available on www.thebigtriathlon.co.uk Well done toeveryone who took part! If you’re inspired to give triathlons a try but fancy something a little less gruelling, Sunday 1st October sees the Offbeatbikes/No Fuss Triathlon at Lochaber Leisure centre for a 400m swim and a 10mile cycle and a 2.5 mile run. See www.nofussevents.co.uk for more details. Tue, 26 Sep 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1413 Fort William has unveiled a Mountain Festival programme that will put the Outdoor Capital of the UK at the centre of the celebrations for Highland 2007, the Year Scotland celebrates Highland Culture. Organisers of the 2007 Fort William Mountain Festival, have promised a sixteen day extravaganza of films, lectures, workshops, art, writing, photography, theatre and music for residents and visitors who want to learn about and celebrate mountain culture. To mark the launch of the festival local mountain enthusiasts demonstrated their skills and nerve at the Vertical Descents outdoor activity centre by jumping, kayaking and abseiling down a 45 foot drop at the Inchree Falls. This year’s expanded programme of new events and old favourites sees the most ambitious selection of cultural and sporting events and activities in Fort William and Lochaber during the best winter walking and climbing conditions of the year. The diverse range of events which includes top climbers, paddlers, singers, international films and public art will cater for everyone of all ages; from extreme adrenaline junkies to Gaelic language enthusiasts. Visit www.mountainfestival.co.uk/programme.htm for details of the full line-up. Wed, 29 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1095 Congratulations to the Ice Factor Indoor Climbing and Ice-Climbing Centre in Kinlochleven! The mountain activity centre has today been chosen as one of the five national finalists for two top Scottish business awards: • The Baker Tilly Entrepreneur of the Year Award • The Visit Scotland Tourism Business of the Year Award The £3.5million mountain activity centre, which boasts the world's biggest indoor ice wall and the UK's highest articulated rock wall, has enjoyed meteoric success since its launch in December 2003. The centre attracts over 180,000 visitors and has already won a host of top industry accolades. Jamie Smith (36), Managing Director, said "We are absolutely delighted to be in the finals for these extremely prestigious awards. Last year was a great year for us: our business grew by over a quarter, Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip visited the centre, and we collected a host of awards - The Scottish Thistle Award for Innovation, The Caledonian MacBrayne Award for Best New Tourism Business AND we were voted Scotland's favourite lottery-funded project." But the Ice Factor isn’t going to be resting on its laurels anytime soon. The centre has recently added another string to its bow with the completion of a new £250,000 bar-bistro which offers late-night food and entertainment in a laid-back and welcoming ambience. As Jamie says, “The challenge for us now is to keep building on our high standards and exceeding our customers’ expectations into the future.” With nominations for top business awards and the new bar/bistro already proving popular with locals and visitors alike, it looks like the Ice Factor is well on the way to achieving that aim. To find out more about the range of activities on offer at the Ice Factor click here . Mon, 19 Jun 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1209 An event in which four wooden batons are carried along four different routes, covering 2,500 miles, is reaching its peak at Ben Nevis today. 'The Journey for the Wild' has involved almost 1,000 people, walking, kayaking, cycling and sailing around Britain. Conservation group The John Muir Trust organised the journey to promote the country's wild places. The handcrafted batons will eventually be presented to the Scottish Parliament to form a sculpture. The batons are due to come togetherat 2pm onFriday after being carried from the Isles of Scilly, Shetland, St Kilda and the North Sea. Covering 2,500 miles, the journey comprised 70 individual legs lasting a day to a week. Speaking of the event, journey co-ordinator Sam Baumber, said the journey was undertaken with the interests of the environment at the heart of it. He said: "The volunteers are travelling with a minimal environmental footprint and raising sponsorship to help protect wild land. The collaborative effort of everyone involved is truly inspiring." Everyone is welcome to attend the Open Day event at the Glen Nevis Visitor Centre on the outskirts of Fort William on Saturday 26th August.Visitors will get a chance to add their message for the wild, and enjoy a range of activities for all ages, including environmental games and guided walks in the glen. For more information visit www.jmt.org or call Glen Nevis Visitor Centre on 01397 705049. Photo shows baton on the Garvellach islands, near Oban, taken by Dave Picken. Courtesy of John Muir Trust. Fri, 25 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=311 The UCI World Cup mountain bike Finals are to be held for the 3rd year running in Fort William, on the 10th&11th of September 2005. Check out more info at http://www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk Fri, 16 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1204 ...Join in on seven days of sensational walking up, over and between the remote and rugged mountains of Lochaber, centred on Ben Nevis and Fort William. This brand new event takes place on the 10th - 16th September and offers an exciting, enjoyable and sometimes challenging selection of walks. The highlights of the festival include: • Large variety of routes, difficulty and strenuousness every day. • Themed walks and other low level routes of outstanding interest. • Seven Day Packages with or without accommodation • A full programme of evening events from ceilidhs to weather and equipment lectures • A guided tour to Skye on the Wednesday. (For those with energy who do not need a break there will still be a full programme of guided walks on the Skye trip day) Totally immerse yourself in a Lochaber experience. WALKLOCHABER is offering a seven day package for adventurous walkers to enjoy the magnificent mountains and glens around Lochaber. Find out more at www.walklochaber.com Tue, 22 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1197 Guidebooks recommend that walkers tackling Ben Nevis allow three and a half hours for their ascent and two and a half hours to come back down - but try telling that to super-fit Fort William man Charlie Anderson!He's just made it into the record books - by conquering Britain's highest mountain an amazing six times inside 24 hours at the weekend. Charlie, an ultrasonic operator with Network Rail and part-time firefighter, set himself the incredible challenge to raise funds for two local families affected by cystic fibrosis. And he had to brave the elements of wind, rain and mist to run up and down the 4,406ft Ben - completing the challenge with one hour to spare. Throughout his allotted 24 hours, father of three Charlie pitted himself against the mighty mountain in twilight, darkness and then daylight. His respective times were two hours and 45 minutes, three hours, four hours; three and a half hours; four hours and three and a half hours - "with a bit of rest and a change of running gear in between each trip". Charlie completed his sixth and final leg by 5pm on Saturday, an hour inside the 24, when he arrived at the Ben Nevis Inn at Achintee, at the foot of the Ben. "It was a personal challenge on the one hand, but it will also, hopefully, bring in around £3,000 in sponsorship to add to the efforts of two Fort families who are fundraising locally for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust's gene therapy project." Fri, 11 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1910 It has been a bumper year for wildlife sightings on Loch Shiel. Jim Michie, from Eagle-Watch Wildlife Cruisesoperating on Loch Shiel, has over ten years of experience in eagle watching. He has recorded over 80 sightings in the last nine weeks. "This is an exceptionally good year for eagle spotting and certainly the most successful since I started the business in 1998. There are two pairs of eagles in the loch area and sightings have been assisted by a lengthy spell of good weather." Apparently eagles don't get out so much when it is wet, visibility is bad or there is low cloud. If visibility is bad they can't hunt, however this doesn't stop them successfully living and breeding around Loch Shiel. Jim hasn't been able to catch any of the eagles on film as they fly so fastyou need to be very quick to be able tophotograph them, but he was a bit luckier in October of 2006 when he got a picture of a sea eagle. This was identified as a bird fledged in 2002, from Loch Fresa in Mull and progeny of "Itchy and Scratchy" as featured on Springwatch. To find out more about Loch Shiel wildlife cruises go to www.highlandcruises.co.uk and for informtion on other cruises operating in the Lochaber area click here Fri, 8 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=609 For nine days in February, during the best winter walking and climbing conditions of the year, we will be entertained by a varied and very full programme of lectures, films, activities and exhibitions. The Film Festival was a huge success in 2003, 2004 and 2005 ensuring that it will be an annual fixture. Book the dates now for your winter walking, climbing and skiing in the Outdoor Capital of the UK and enjoy the entertainment provided by the Fort William Mountain Film Festival. Tickets are now available to book online and to buy in person. Find out how here . Main Speakers include: Catherine Destivelle Nick Bullock Andy Kirkpatrick Ian (Spike) Sykes Gerry Moffatt Cameron McNeish plus many more Festival highlights include: The Party Up A Mountain will kick start the festival this year with the band Spagnum Moss who got us all up and dancing last year! Make sure you don't miss the best party of the winter! Winter Mountaineering Workshops will be run at Nevis Range and The Ice Factor covering Avalanche Awareness, Winter Walking Skills and Winter Climbing. Indoor rock and ice climbing workshops at The Ice Factor with Dave MacLeod and Niall McNair. There will be a week long exhibition of art and photography from local and national artists including Colin Prior. Thu, 26 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1143 Nevis Range is a valued member of the Outdoor Capital of the UK, and we are offering them all the support and assistance we can to help them deal with the incident that occurred on the afternoon of Thursday 13th July. The top priority now is doing everything possible to support the five people injured, their families, the visitors and staff involved. Nevis Range is working closely with the relevant agencies to ascertain the facts of the situation and the Outdoor Capital will co-operate in any way required. For further information visit the BBC website. Fri, 14 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1340 MOUNTAIN FILM, PHOTOGRAPHY, ART & WRITING COMPETITIONS ANNOUNCED Fort William Mountain Festival 2007has justannounced details of open film, photography, art and writing competitions, that will form part of the exciting programme of events at next year's festival. After the success of the 2006 film competition the Fort William Mountain Festival 2007 has created another opportunity for both amateur and professional filmmakers from across the globe to showcase their work and share their passion for sport, culture and the environment. The aim of the the 2007 Fort William Mountain Festival is to celebrate mountain life and culture. As in previous festivals, there will be evenings focusing on mountain sports including snow sports, mountaineering, mountain biking and kayaking. Wild places and mountain culture are also important themes within the festival programme. The Fort William Mountain Festival runs from 16th February to 3rd March 2007 and is a two week celebration of mountains and the culture that surrounds them. The full programme will be announced in late November 2006, highlights will include the Best of Banff Film Festival, lectures, activities, films, skills workshops, music, theatre, book readings, art and photography. For competition entry forms and more infovisit www.mountainfestival.co.uk Fri, 27 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3494 An Appeal from the Scottish Sea Angling Conservation Network. Policy towards Scottish sea angling has been hindered because little is known about it. The Scottish Government is now rectifying this by funding a team of economists to produce an economic assessment of sea angling in Scotland. When completed, this study will help to ensure that policy makers are well informed about Scottish sea angling’s true significance and how best to realise its future potential. The Scottish Sea Angling Conservation Network (www.ssacn.org) strongly supports this study and is appealing for sea anglers’ to provide information. We believe that it is absolutely essential that as many sea anglers as possible complete an online questionnaire. If you have fished for sea species anywhere in Scotland in the past three years we urge you to click on the address below and complete the questionnaire. Even if you fished once for a couple of hours, the study team would like information from you. http://www.gcal.ac.uk/econsurv/seaangler3.htm . Visit us at www.ssacn.org Thu, 3 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1636 Scotland’s first Mountain Culture Summit, 'Moving Mountains' , takes place on Friday 2nd March in the Nevis Centre, Fort William. We’d like to extend a warm welcome to everyone interested in mountain culture. Mountains inspire artists, athletes, and adventurers. They’re spiritual, symbolic, striking. But is the notion of a distinct ‘mountain culture’ where all these views converge fully established yet – or does it need to be fostered? Moving Mountains brings together enthusiasts and national agencies to explore how it can happen successfully. The Summit will be chaired by broadcaster, Mary Ann Kennedy, and feature contributions from: - -Cameron McNeish, conservationist - Dick Balharry, John Muir Trust - Angus Farquhar, nva - Bob Kinnaird, Cairngorm Mountain, - Andew Thin, SNH - Mike Pescod, Mountaineer - Tim Walker, Glenmore Lodge Plus representatives from: - Scottish Arts Council - Event Scotland - Banff Mountain Festival Moving Mountains is a key event in the Fort William Mountain Festival and an important contribution to Highland 2007, the Year of Highland Culture. It will consider establishing a new national award for excellence in mountain culture. The day is open to all those with an interest or a direct involvement in developing the mountains of Scotland. It’s free (lunch is included!) and can be booked easily via the following link: www.creativeservicesscotland.co.uk/mountainfestival/ Tue, 20 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3538 On Sunday 13th July the Ice Factor climbing wall in Kinlochleven opened a great new High Ropes facility, as well as an high level aerial obstacle course there is an outdoor climbing wall and a terrifying swing. There are height restrictions for some of these activities so not all of the new facilities are suitable for young children but there is already a soft play climbing area suitable for toddlers upwards in the main hall. To go round the High Ropes course costs £18 for adults and £15 for kids and the swing costs £12 for adults and £10 for children. This combined withthe existing indoor climbing walls and ice wall already at the Ice Factor means it really is a great day out of all. To see a video of someone on the swing go to the Ice Factor's blog. Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=727 Tickets are going fast so book your place on this amazing opportunity for Lochaber! The Outdoor Capital of the UK Company has pulled together an amazing opportunity for the people of Lochaber and the wider Highlands, by arranging to bring top personal and corporate development coach Jack Black, to give a special 2-day seminar in Fort William on 27th and 28th March. Everyone can benefit from this seminar from local businesses to volunteer groups, sports clubs to school children and everyone who believes in improving the area. Account will be taken of particular issues that affect Highland people and organisations. Jack has experience in this area, having successfully worked on a similar project in Cornwall, helping realise the ambitions of their community with great success. Jack Black’s normal venues are in Glasgow, London and Dublin where he can speak to audiences of thousands but he has never been persuaded to come to the Highlands before for a major event. The two day event has been made possible at a very affordable price through support from Lochaber Enterprise and business sponsorship. The normal price for a 2 day Jack Black course, is £575+vat but the price of this special course less than half price at £220+vat There may also be the opportunity for voluntary organisations and clubs to tap into that sponsorship to allow some members to attend free. The Outdoor Capital is pleased to announce that it’s members are entitled to a £20 discount per ticket, which means the price per ticket for before the 10th March is £200 +VAT. If you are interested in becoming a member of the OCUK, please contact the office on 01397 705765, or email the office . Jack’s development techniques provide a way to set and achieve big goals. His methods have been used by thousands of people and companies around the world, including world-class athletes and business leaders. The Scotsman described Jack Black as: ‘one of the top Scotsmen to shape our nation’. Ticket prices: Before 10th March £220 + VAT per ticket £1000 + VAT for 5 tickets After 10th March £245 + VAT per ticket £1125 + VAT for 5 ticket If you are purchasing more than 5 tickets or would like more information please contact the Outdoor Capital office on 01397 705765 Tue, 21 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=312 This is the new holding site for the Outdoor Capital of the UK, with the main site due to go live in the autumn. For the time being you can find out about events and useful links to our members on these pages and keep checking back to find out what's happening in Lochaber. Fri, 16 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1995 Local Fort William residents and visitors to the area will be in for a real treat over the summer as the Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year Touring Exhibition comes to town. From 30th June until 5th August people will be able to view the most fabulous collection of images from around the globe. This annual competition aims to find the most stunning and original wildlife pictures taken by photographers worldwide of all ages. Vivid, colourful landscapes and intimate portraits of animal behaviour will be on display. The Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition offers an extraordinary insight into the beauty, drama and diversity of the natural world. The photograph shown was taken by Rick Stanley (USA), Shell Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year. The exhibition will be making its Highland debut at the state of the art Lime Tree Gallery in Fort William where 95 images from the collection will be on show. Dave Wilson, Gallery owner and artist in residence at the Lime Tree said, ‘this is a fantastic coup for the Highlands, having an internationally renowned exhibition on display for members of the public to enjoy. It is without doubt the most successful wildlife photography competition in the world, inspiring millions of people with the richness and variety of life on Earth and it's here in Fort William. Amazing! The exhibition is free and open daily and everyone is welcome.’ The Shell Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition is owned by the Natural History Museum and BBC Wildlife Magazine, and is sponsored by Shell. PHOTO CREDIT: 'The Dilemma' by Rick Stanley (USA), Shell Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year. While on an expedition in the Dominican Republic, in the Caribbean, with a group of naturalists, Rick wandered off with his Dominican friend Rubio to look for wildlife in the forest. ‘Suddenly,’ says Rick, ‘we heard a loud squeaking’. Rubio was the first to discover its source – a distressed Hispaniolan treefrog, which had been caught by a green vine snake. ‘I photographed the drama as the frog dangled in front of me, but Rubio was unable to resist helping the victim and gently touched the snake, which promptly dropped its meal and slithered away along the branches.’ The frog, seemingly unaffected by the snake’s mild venom, hopped off. Rick was left wondering whether it would have been morally better to let the snake have its meal – and, indeed, if it would have succeeded in swallowing such a large frog had it been left to try. Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3573 A huge crowd witnessed the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse Sponsored Abseil on 12th August. The number ofbraveparticipants numbered 80 ... which is the sameamount of birthdays the oldest abseiler,Eilidh MacPhail, has celebrated! For photos and more details, visit the Lighthouse Keeper's observations Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3555 In association with Nevis Range, Off Beat Bikes and Highland Activities, guided bike rides are now being offeredat Nevis Range. Rides areaimedat families and beginners, but all are welcome.Rides take place every Tuesday at Nevis Range at 10am and 2pm. Two hour sessions - £30 per person - maximum 6 persons. If under 16, childrenmust be accompanied by an adult. Bike hire available from Off Beat Bikes, £10 per half day. To book and for more information enquire in person at Nevis Range Ticket Office, telephone Nevis Range on 01397 705825 or call Highland Activities on 08450 945513 Wed, 30 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1449 On Thursday 7th December2006 Fort William Mountain Bike World Cup won the Scottish Sunday Mail Sporting Event of the Year at an awards dinner in Glasgow. These are the first such awards in Scotland and the World Cup was up against the Barclays Scottish Open (golf) and the Tiree Wave Classic (windsurfing). Tracy Moseley and Scottish riders Chris Ball and Stu Thomson accepted the award with Mike and Lesley from Rare Management. The award was presented by David Williams from EventScotland and rugby star Chris Patterson. This is great recognition of the event as we start the build-up to the big one - the World Championships in 2007. Mike Jardine of organisers Rare Managment said 'Congratulations and thanks to everyone involved. It's another award for the best workers, sponsors, partners and spectators - the whole team that makes it all happen.' For more information on the Mountain Bike World Champs go to www.fortwilliamworldchamps.co.uk Tue, 12 Dec 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1742 We've just received stocks of our new, updated Fort William and Lochaber booklet. This handy pocket-sized booklet is packed with loads of great activity ideas plus accomodation and eating out contacts. The booklet will be available from Tourist Information Centres throughout Lochaber and further afield, but if you'd like to order a copy directly pleasepop your name and postaladdress into our contact form and we'll send you out a copy as soon as we can. The pocket-sized guide includes information about: walking - hill walking, coastal walks and long-distance walks mountain sports - climbing, mountaineering, ice climbing snowsports - skiing and boarding at Nevis Range and Glencoe watersports - kayaking, canyoning, sailing, canoeing, diving cycling - road biking, downhill and cross-country mountain biking country sports and golf - fishing, stalking, golf motor-sports - quad-biking, 4WD, go karting environment and wildlife - wildlife cruises and wildlife information events guide eating and drinking - pubs, restaurants in Fort William and Lochaber accomodation - from bothies to luxury! In short, it's got everything you need to plan a great break in the Outdoor Capital! Tue, 27 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1409 On Friday 24th November 2006 in a prestigous awards ceremony at the Drumossie Hotel in Inverness the Outdoor Capital of the UK won the Highlands and Islands 2006 Tourism Award for New Tourism Business, and was runner up in the Working Together for Tourism category. The awards were attended by 350 people from all over the Scottish Highlands and Islands and were hosted by hosted by STV's Stephen Jardine, with the awards presented by Alex Norton who plays DCI Burke in the popular Taggert TV series. The evening was a glamourous black tie event with a film and TV theme in recognition of the large number of programmes and films that use the Scottish Highlands and Islands as a setting, and the benefit this has on the tourism industry with 'set-jetters' seeking out film and TV locations as holiday destinations. Fort William and Lochaber has hosted film makers from the crews shooting 'Local Hero' to the 'Harry Potter' films, amongst many. The award for Best New Tourism Business was accepted by Steve Ham, an Outdoor Capital Director and Anna Trafford Project Director who said " The Outdoor Capital of the UK is delighted to win this prestigious award; which highlights the huge amount of work the local community and local businesses have put into getting this unique business of the ground. Lochaber is a very special area, both scenically and in the wide range of activities you can do here and we are well underway as establishing it as a world-class destination. We are lucky in having many people in Lochaber who are passionate and committed to promoting and developing the tourism industry. This award would not be possible without the hard work and support of all our volunteer directors, members and supporters and my thanks goes to them." Caledonian MacBrayne supported the New Tourism Business Award and communications director Hugh Dan MacLennan congratulated the Outdoor Capital of the UK on winning the title. He said, “We are fortunate to have so many of Europe’s most scenic tourism areas in the Highlands and Islands, but the development and maintenance of a successful, vibrant tourism industry in any area requires a constant supply of new ideas and business start-ups. The success of this project includes significant involvement of the local community and presents an area which is vibrant, inclusive and fun, featuring a range of activities, attractions and diverse pursuits. The group is fully committed to driving this initiative forward; I’d like to congratulate them on their efforts and wish them success in developing the area into a world class destination”. Photo (L-R): Alex Norton, Lisa Wharton (Outdoor CapitalProject Officer), Hugh Dan MacLennan (Caledonian MacBrayne),Anna Trafford (Outdoor Capital Project Director), and Steve Ham (Outdoor CapitalDirector). Tue, 28 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1831 The annual Scottish Six Days Trial motorbike competition is back in Fort William this week for a battle of trials skills - the competitors pit themselves against the challenging rugged environment of Lochaber over the course of six days. Spectators can see the riders in action at scenic locations around Lochaber from Monday 7th to Saturday 12th, or catch the buzz in town at the opening on Sunday 6th May: The 'Weigh-in' starts at 10am in the West End Car Park, followed by a mountain bike trials demo outside the Alexandra Hotel in Fort William Parade at 13.30. Who needs engines? These guys are amazing! 15.30: Don't miss the Cavalcade of Riders - the competitors take to the High Street of Fort William, escorted by Fort William Junior Pipe Band, the Army, and sponsors. Great fun event to kick-start the programme! To find details of the week's routes, good viewing spots and more..pick up your copy of the official 2007 Programme from Fort William Tourist Information Office (price £3) For information on riders, routesand discussion boardsvisit the official site at http://www.ssdt.org/ Fri, 4 May 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2094 Renowned Scottish climber, and new Lochaber resident, Dave MacLeod has recently climbed the hardest sport route in Scotland and the hardest overall rock climb in Lochaber on Steall Crag.This climb hasbeen attempted by all of Scotland’s best climbers for 15 years (Dave 'Cubby ' Cuthbertson and Malcolm Smith among them). Dave moved to Fort William a couple of months ago, expecting to take a year or so working on this route but he's done it already. Another amazing achievement for Dave! To read an inspirational account of his experience on the new route visit Dave's blog at http://davemacleod.blogspot.com/2007/08/ring-of-steall-project-sent.html You can see Dave in action on the rock this weekendas he takes part in aspecial one-off live TV climbing special filmed in the Cairngorms. The show is onBBC Two Scotland from 1-7pm on Saturday 18 August,and follows a team of top climbers from around the world as they attempt different routes. Find more details at www.bbc.co.uk/scotland/greatclimb . Tue, 14 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=561 On the 31st December Fort WIlliam will welcome the Peat Bog Faeries to Fort William to welcome in the New Year in style. The band have recently won the "best live act of 2005" award and revellers will be hoping they live up to their billing. Tickets cost £20 and are available from Fired Art on Fort WIlliam High Street, telephone705005 or alternatively online through The Booth www.thebooth.co.uk . Find out more at www.highland-hogmanay.co.uk Wed, 21 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2171 A great walk in the Outdoor Capital, from Corrour Station through to Glen Nevis has a three page write up in Autumn's edition of Walk magazine, and the cover shot. Corrour Station is one of the most remote stations in the country and the relatively low level but demanding walk starts at the station and ends up in one of the UK's most dramatic valleys and gorge - Glen Nevis. To read the article and enter the great competition click through to the Ramblers Association Walk magazine website Mon, 3 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=862 To enter the competition please email us Find your way to the Outdoor Capital and win one of four great GPS prizes worth over £860. The Magellan eXplorist range of GPS are both rugged and reliable, compact and yet pack with features and there is no better place to test them out than in the Outdoor Capital. First prize in the MAgellan eXplorist XL with 30MB of memory, 3.5" colour screen, unlimited SD expandability plus many more features. You need never be lost again - and it's waterproof to booth! RRP £399 There are two runners up prizes of the Magellan eXplorist 300, with 8MB of memory, compass, barometer and altimeter built in. RRP £180 Third prize is the Magellan eXplorist 100, a great entry level GPS. RRP £100 Tue, 11 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1749 Cracking weather, enthusiastic spectators and some of Brittain´s finest skiers and boarders ensured a great success over the weekend! There were 42 entries in this year Slopestyle Competition. With the Summit Park being in top condition, competitors battled it out in 6 different categories. Jam sessions in-between gave competitors a chance to relax and show off all their best moves. Spectators had a great time watching the comp, chilling out at the Summit Bar (big hit on a cracking day like Saturday) and enjoying the blue sky, sunshine and good conditions. Afterwards, there was time for a few runs down the Goose before heading down for the Snowgoose Restaurant where the prize giving took place. The day ended with a spectacular sunset on the balcony. For those of you that missed out, have a look at the Slopestyle gallery on http://www.nevisrange.co.uk/winter/mountain/gallerydisplay.asp?id=145 Pictures courtesy of Steven McKenna Slopestyle Results Snowboard Women´s: 1- Kate Ballard (5) 2- Lillian Archibald (42) 3- Kara Anderson (21) Men´s: Junior: 1- Adam Cairns (41) Under 18: 1- Fergus Leith (47) 2- Will Nangle (19) 3- Calum Andean (49) Men´s: 1- Stu Cockburn (35) 2- Mark Hartley (17) 3- Fergus Leith (47)/ Colin Andrews (33) 4- Zach Culshaw (28) also winner of biggest slam Ski Junior: 1- Dougie MacKenzie (44) 2- Alec Willoughby (2) Men´s: 1- Charlie Richards (24) 2- Graham McGrath (22) 3- Kieran Hughes (15) Thu, 29 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=601 A Jack Black MindStore Event Jack Black, top personal and corporate development coach, visited Fort William at the start of this month. In an inspirational presentation Jack showed how, over 2 days, he could share his powerful strategies to help you make the most of your time and achieve more. His MindStore programme covers the following areas: • Positive attitude • Managing stress effectively • Whole brain thinking • Goal setting • Relationship and communication skills This is a fantastic opportunity to attend a Jack Black MindSore Event at a fraction of the normal cost. This event could make a huge difference to your life, your organisation, your career, your relationship. But don’t just take our word for it: “A fabulous two days – the impact on our organisation has been enormous. Jack’s enthusiasm is infectious!” Phil Alexander, Human Resource Manager, Calor Gas Ltd. Where & When The Jack Black Event will be held in the Nevis Centre, Fort William, on 27th and 28th March 2006. How much Until 10th March tickets are available at an early booking rate of £220 + VAT per ticket , or five tickets for £1000 + VAT. After 10th March tickets will cost £245 + VAT per ticket. Tickets for Jack Black’s normal 2 day MindStore events cost £575 + VAT. The Outdoor Capital Company has managed to bring this event to Lochaber at a massive discount. To book your place or to request more information contact us at the Outdoor Capital: Tel. 01397 705765 Email info@outdoorcapital.co.uk Thu, 19 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1012 Come and join us for a unique party on Saturday 27 May. From 6.30pm to midnight Fort William High Street will be transformed into the ultimate party zone for all the family! Activities and attractions The High Street will be buzzing with music and fun – street entertainers, music of all kinds, and activities for everyone to try. If you’ve always fancied yourself as a cowboy, test your skills on our bucking bronco! Find out if you’re scared of heights on the climbing wall, or throw your weight around as an inflatable sumo wrestler! But don’t tire yourself out too much – there’s a lot more to do and see. Indulge yourself with delicious local food at the Lochaber Larder marquee, and enjoy a spot of late-night shopping ‘til 10pm. If you’re in need of refreshment, local bars and restaurants will be open for food and drink ‘til late. Ceilidh with the Peatbog Faeries If you like a quiet night – stay at home! With buskers galore, full wind band, traditional pipe band, Gaelic singers and more, music is going to fill the street and you won’t be able to stop your toes tapping! PLUS the fantastic ‘Peatbog Faeries’ head the line-up on the main stage at Cameron Square – be prepared to join in one huge ceilidh! With the Wilderness Arc adventure race prologue race and the fun short race ‘Raiders of the Wilderness Arc’ race kicking off from the main stage earlier in the evening, it promises to be a party night to remember! More details will be availableonour Events page soon. Tue, 2 May 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1403 Professional prankster Dom Joly had the tables turned on him last week, as readers of the Sunday Times put him on the spot in the new weekly 'Dom Joly vs the Planet' challenge. Each week, readers vote for their choice of3 challenges -last week they chose to see Dom trying the adrenaline sport of canyoning rather than kayaking inthe wilderness area of Knoydart or legging it up Ben Nevis in the snow. Encased securely in skin-tight neoprene wetsuit, Dom took on the challenge with gusto, makingchucking yourself over cliffs and sliding down waterfalls look pretty easy. To listen to the Sunday Times podcast of his Outdoor Capital adventure and to vote for his next challenge, click here . Fri, 24 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4762 60 brave (foolish?) competitors completed the Glen Nevis River Race on Saturday in times varying between 19 and 55 minutes. Local boy and 2008 champion Stephen Cant was the quickest home again, and there were even a couple of celebrities at the starting gate (shame only one made it to the finish...). See photos and a fantastic video clip at www.nofussevents.co.uk Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4821 Gallop and Grind is an exciting participative duathalon taking place in Fort William on Saturday the 26th of September 2009. Hosted by No Fuss Events this event has something for everyone from a short walk to a run/jog and cycle this event will appeal to all from families to competitive athletes. The event was originally the inspiration of Sharon Fraser an Invergarry mum of four who was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2006 and wished to ‘give something back’ in appreciation of her care. Last years event, saw over 600 participants raise in excess of £85,000 in support of the Belford Hospital and the Oncology Ward in Raigmore Hospital. All monies raised in sponsorship from this years event will benefit the newly formed charity ‘Cancer Care in the Highlands’ which supports those affected by Cancer and their families living in the Highlands. Sadly Sharon died in December 2008 but she has left an incredible legacy. With one in three of us being affected by Cancer please come along and support this community event – if participating in the event is not for you we require a range of volunteers to support the event on the day and any offers of help or assistance would be much appreciated. We still require sponsorship with the event, Mcphee and Partners and Ferguson Transport are two local businesses who are supporting the event - perhaps you are a local business who may also be able to part sponsor the event? The event costs £15 (including a free t-shirt). Additional t-shirts will be for sale at £10 from Mcphee and Partners, An Aird, Fort William. For further information on entering the event please log on to www.nofussevents.co.uk. Paper entries are available at Mcphee and Partners. If wishing to volunteer on the day please contact Karen MacInnes on 07733453875. A free ceilidh will be held in the Nevis Centre to which all participants and their families are invited on the evening of 26th September with music from Andy MacDonald and friends. www.nofussevents.co.uk Fri, 7 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4826 The "clouts" (cloths) are out, boiled and ironed, aprons at the ready, the flour, oatmeal and sugar, syrup, sultanas measured. Yes, the Highlands are gearing up for the World Cloutie* Dumpling Championship on Wednesday August 26. The occasion, in Fort William, is the climax of a ten-weeks programme of events organised by volunteers at the Homecoming Hub of Lochaber College UHI. Highland Councillor Donald Cameron, a member of the ad-hoc Homecoming Hub committee, came up with the idea of staging a World Cloutie Dumpling Championship. And it is certainly making a novel twist from Haggis Hurling. So much so that the notion has captured the imagination, locally and nationally, even to the extent that a pipe tune has been composed in the Cloutie Dumpling's honour! Everyone is warmly invited to take part in this prestigious, free - and fun event. So scores of variations on the theme of the traditional dumpling delicacy are anticipated for adjudication. Entry forms and guidance notes are available from various outlets in and around Fort William, including the Homecoming Hub at Lochaber College, Ben Nevis Distillery, Ben Nevis Book Corner, Lochaber Rural Education Trust at Torlundy, Wynne the Butchers, or by emailing morag.maclean2@highland.gov.uk You can also contactMargaret Boyd on01397 874204. Lochaber Provost, Allan Henderson, Hector MacLean of Lochaber Burns Club and Brian Gunn, Lochaber College Training chef, will form the panel of local "Cloutie Dumpling Tasters and Testers" as the judges on the day. Their criteria will revolve round "first impressions", and colour, aroma, texture and taste. The mix of ingredients to be wrapped up in the obligatory square piece of cotton or linen cloth is being left entirely to the choice of the makers and stirrers! The finished Cloutie Dumpling should be no bigger than a large dinner plate - and no smaller than a side plate! The only other instruction is that the submitted dumpling should be left whole - and not cut up into slices. All the entries require to be delivered to Lochaber College Training Kitchen between 3pm and 5pm on Wednesday, August 26, where the cloutie dumplings will be transferred onto dinner plates or side plates provided by the College Kitchen. The adjudication will take place that evening, at the final Lochaber Homecoming Hub Ceilidh at 7.30pm. All the participants will be warmly invited to stay for the Ceilidh. And, after the judges have made their decision, the intention is to cut the Cloutie Dumplings up -so that everyone can have a taste! Prizes include dinner for two at a local restaurant and a bottle of the finest Ben Nevis Distillery whisky. Full competition rules are available here and, even if you don't compete, come along to the Ceilidh on Wednesday 26th August to sample the entries and enjoy the fun! * The spelling of Cloutie for this worldwide competition is the variant used equally with "Clootie". Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4853 A new trophy will be awarded at the famous Ben Nevis Race on Saturday - and, unusually,it won't go the first person home. Willie Anderson, who will be providing safety cover at the summit for the last time after 40 years service,has donated the cup to reward effort rather than speed and the trophy will be given to the last person who reaches the top. The event, which starts at 1pm at Claggan on the outskirts of Fort William, is the world’s oldest mountain race and over 600 people will line up at thestart. Thu, 3 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4856 Despite the atrocious conditions last Saturday, 464 runners completed the 2009 Ben Nevis Race. Not surprisingly in the circumstances, both the men's and women's records remained untroubled as they have been since 1984. Rob Jebb of Bingley Harriers was first man home in 1hr 32m 33 sec; Mireia Miro from Catalonia won the Women's Race in 1hr 56m 46 sec. For the full results, visit the official website here . Tue, 8 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1567 On Saturday 27th of January ‘07 the Ice Factor hosted Britain’s annual mixed climbing competition, and climbers from over the UK converged onthe Outdoor Capital. The BBC were there filming for BBC Scotland’s Adventure Show, presenter Dougie Vipond certainly seemed to enjoy himself. Routes were set by Dave Macleod, one of the words best climbers, and Dave Brown, from the renowned adventure film company Hotaches Productions . Turn out was high helped by decent prizes with the Outdoor Capital sponsoring the juniors competition. Main sponsors were Go Fast Sports UK. Fiona Murray, back from a good performance in the Ice World Cup, easily clinched the women’s comp, but the men’s final was more gripping with Edinburgh student Tony Stone getting the title. The speed category was won byBlair Ffyne. There was bags of young talent in the juniors, with Ellen McAskill winning. For a full competition report read Dave Brown’s blog . The competition should be shown on BBC2Scotland's Adventure Show in mid February. Pictures by Cubby Images MEN 1. Tony Stone 2. Ali Robb 3. Alan MacDonald WOMEN 1. Fiona Murray 2. Anna Wells 3. Alison Banwell JUNIOR 1. Ellen McAskill 2. Nikki Addison 3. Steven Addison SPEED 1. Blair Fyffe 2. Duncan Campbell 3. Ruaridh McKenzie Tue, 30 Jan 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1159 Nevis Range re-opened at 10am onTuesday 25th July. Nevis Range is hugely popular with bothvisitors and locals - if you've never been, or haven't been for a while, come along and enjoy the fantastic views of Lochaber. Admire truly spectacular views of the area,get a unique perspective onthe Great Glenfrom the Great Glen Chair ride, take a short walk to explore the Aonach Mor hillside onmarked trails, orsimply relax and enjoylunch or a coffee with an amazing outlook from the Snowgoose cafe. View a gallery of the re-opening here . For more about what's on at Nevis Range, click here . Mon, 24 Jul 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1201 The newly refurbished Lime Tree Gallery in Fort William opened its doors to the public on Friday 18th August, with the opening of its launch exhibition of rare Francisco Goya etchings. The new half million pound state-of-the-artgalleryis capable of hosting the finest artwork from around the world and will host touring shows from the National Art Collections as well as provide a platform forcontemporary artists to exhibit and sell their work. The first show, which was officially unveiled by local Clan Cameron chief, Sir Donald Cameron of Locheil on Thursday evening, is a collection of 22 original etchings entitled ‘The Disparates’ by the Spanish old master Francisco Goya. This is a priceless historic and unique collection of Goya’s work, from his challenging ‘Black Period’. This rare collectionis on loan from the Hayward Gallery , London on behalf of Arts Council England. The work offive artistswhose work is inflenced by Goya is also being exhibited alongside the etchings. Speakingat the opening exhibition, owner of the Lime Tree Gallery local artist David Wilson, said: ‘Bringing the art of Goya to Fort William is a high quality ‘first’ for the West Highlands. I hope that the people of the Highlands take this opportunity to see this world-class art - free of charge’ here in the Highlands.’ Thisshow isthe first in an exciting programme of exhibition and events planned for the Lime Tree Gallery. Keep an eye onthe Events section for what's coming up. The Goya exhibition runs until September 9th – Admission is free. The Lime TreeGallery isat the west end ofFort William High Street. Open from 10am - 10pm every day. For more information visit www.limetreefortwilliam.co.uk Fri, 18 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1294 The Outdoor Capital of the UK community company has won the coveted title of 'Best Tourism Business Award' in the prestigious Highlands and Islands Business Awards 2006. The Outdoor Capital was among those honoured when Scotland's First Minister, Jack McConnell, presented the 21st anniversary Highlands and Islands Business Awards in Inverness this week. The judges were looking for a quality product or service and success in identifying, meeting and attracting target markets. The Best Tourism Business award recognises the Outdoor Capital's success in promoting Fort William and Lochaber as a destination for everyone interested in the outdoors - whether they prefer adrenaline activities or simply enjoying the spectacular scenery. Anna Trafford, Outdoor Capital Project Director said, 'We are delightedto have won this award. We're a small community company, but with the support of local people and businesses, we're showing that we can achieve great results for tourism in the Lochaber area.' Photo shows Scotland's First Minister, Jack McConnell awarding the prize for Best Tourism Business to Outdoor Capital Directors, Ian Sykes and Bren Gormley. Thu, 5 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1896 Mike Kloser, Chris Forne, Monique Merrill and Michael Tobin of the awesome Team Nike (USA/NZ) triumphantly broke through the finish line (Nevis Centre, Fort William) of the 2007 Adventure Racing World Championship at 06.07 this morning to become Adventure Racing world champions for the second year running. Having raced non-stop and unsupported for almost 130 hours in extremely harsh conditions over the 500 km course (that contained some 25,000 metres of ascent!) team captain Kloser flushed with excitement, said: 'Goals are a huge factor in this kind of event. We came to Scotland with the primary goal of defending our title and winning and we are delighted to have done so. It was a good race all round. Our one thought was always to push on, but the trekking was really tough - particularly towards the end - and the cold temperatures a big factor. It was one tough course. Our priority now is to have breakfast, take a shower and get some sleep - we've only had about five hours since the start of the race!'. There to greet the team as they were showered with champagne was race director Phil Humphreys who said 'Wow - what an epic race! It was relentless, brutal and fantastic. To finish the full course is quite remarkable. Respect to Nike and all those other teams who cross the finish line'. During much of the race - the toughest endurance event ever staged in the UK - Nike have been relentlessly pursued by the French/Swiss Team Wilsa HellyHansen, who are now firmly in second position around five hours behind Nike. Team Buff Coolmax (Spain), Team OrionHealth.com (New Zealand) and Bjurfors Adventure Racing (Sweden/ USA) are battling it out behind them on the final stages of the race. Officials expect these teams to finish at various times during the day (1 June). The official start was at 08.20 on Sunday (27 May) when 49 teams, comprising the world's toughest endurance athletes from 22 nations, left the island in a colourful flotilla of kayaks for the mainland via Eigg. The course was to take them across Knoydart, Scotland's last remaining wilderness, over a chilly Loch Ness, through the wild Monadhliath Mountains and across the centre of Scotland, from the A9 to the A82, on lochs and rivers against the natural flow of the water with the added challenge of carrying and pulling their heavily laden boats for more than 20 km on road and moor. The final stages of the route saw the lead teams ascending all the summits in Glen Coe before traversing the legendary Aonach Eagach ridge and finally climbing the UK's highest mountain, Ben Nevis, never before summitted in a UK adventure race. Fri, 1 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=686 Yesterday saw the offical launch of the Outdoor Capital website at The Ice Factor in Kinlochleven. Dave MacLeod, Scotland's top mixed climber and one of the world's most talented climbers, scaled the indoor ice wall beside the Outdoor Capital logo. In a fanastic world first he then went on to climb a 60 foot pillar of ice to entertain visitors to the Fort William Mountain Film Festival. The ice tower used brand new technology and proved a resounding success as Dave was followed up the ice by Kevin and Fiona Murray. The event brought a taste of ice climbing to members of the public who have never experienced ice climbing before, and impressed those watching who were familiar with the sport! We hope you find the Outdoor Capital website useful and come and join us in Lochaber... Fri, 17 Feb 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1350 Looking for a fantastic outdoors break in Lochaber?A wild and wet weekend with a group of friends?A great value adventure break? Then get the VisitScotland Adventure Passport for Fort William and Lochaber and get your hands on a booklet of discounts to help you get the most out of your stay. VisitScotland and local Fort William and Lochaber businesses have teamed up to bring visitors a collection of great discounts with the new Adventure Passport. The pocket size pass contains over 40 special discount offers on everything from sea kayaking and mountain guides to B&B’s, self catering accommodation, retail outlets, pubs and restaurants in the Lochaber and Fort William area – The Outdoor Capital of the UK. The Passport is validfrom October 2006to May 2007. Get more out of your visit to Lochaber with this great booklet of discounts - order online from VisitScotland 'swebsite. To find out more about the huge range of activities on offer in Lochaber click here . Tue, 31 Oct 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=970 400 world-class riders, 20,000 spectators, 2 days of non-stop action and drama in a fantastic atmosphere - it has to be the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup 2006! Between Friday 26 May and Sunday 28 May the picturesque slopes around Nevis Range, Fort William, will once again host the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup. The best riders from more than 35 countries will compete in three of the most gruelling events in extreme freesports - Downhill, 4-Cross and Cross Country. All the top names in international mountain biking will be here. But it’s the British riders who will get the crowds cheering loudest as they go for glory on home turf. Last year’s downhill winners Steve Peat and Tracy Moseley, both legends of the mountain bike circuit, will be hotly pursued by the likes of Rachel Atherton, Gold medallist at the 2005 Junior World Championships, and her brothers Gee and Dan. Both Liam Killeen and Oli Beckinsale will be back from Melbourne,fresh from competingin the Commonwealth Games Cross Country. And as if the turbo-charged International competition isn’t enough - thebuzzing World Cup Village at Nevis Range is an event in itself! Meet the world’s top riders at the Team Technical area,pickup thelatest mountain-bike goodies from trade stands and watch demos of the newest bikes. Anddon't worry, you'll never miss a bit of the action - huge video screens will show the races and live entertainment. With food, drink and competitions galore - you'll never want to leave! To find out moreand to book yourtickets visit the official website www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk . See you up there! Tue, 25 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=1711 Cameron McNeish, internationally known mountaineer and journalist,has beenappointed as Chairman of the Nevis Partnership. Cameron said, "I am absolutely delighted to be involved with the Nevis Partnership and I'm very aware of what the Partnership has already achieved. The Nevis area – the mountain, the glen and the river, are undoubtedly iconic features of the Scottish landscape and as such have to be looked after in a way that is acceptable not only to the thousands of visitors who come to be inspired and uplifted by the natural grandeur but also to the local people who live and work in the immediate area. Like any Scottish mountaineer, Ben Nevis holds a special place in my heart and I hope my involvement with the Nevis Partnership will put a little bit back in return for the countless days I've enjoyed on the hill and in its glen." John Hutchison, company secretary, said, “Over the last five years the Partnership has moved forward steadily, as another Lochaber initiative, and Cameron’s appointment will help us to gain a higher national profile”. More information about the Nevis Partnership and the Nevis Strategy can be found on our website http://www.nevispartnership.co.uk/ Thu, 15 Mar 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=861 Lochaber's two ski resorts have had bumper snowfalls over the past week, providing the best skiing of the season so far. Contrary to reports that climate change is sounding the death knell for Scottish Skiing, this year’s spring snow is some of the best this century, with overall conditions eclipsed only a handful of times in the last 50 years. Statistics released today by the Glencoe Ski Centre and Nevis Range report excellent conditions for spring skiing in Scotland this year, with more snow forecast for the Easter period. Hopes are that skiing will extend to as late as May. Historically, spring has been a time for scots to hang up their ski boots, dust off the golf clubs and think about the summer. But unbeknown to many the tail end of the Scottish ski season offers the best conditions, with high snow falls, warm weather and short lift queues. Katrina Dexter, a spokesperson from the Nevis Range ski area comments; ‘We’ve had the best April snow this year since 2001, with more round the corner, just in time for the Easter hols. We’re really confident this year, and there’s even talk of opening the famous Back Corries, some of Scotland’s best off-piste skiing. The problem is people in Scotland tend to turn their ski radars off by April which is a shame because this time of year can offer the best weather and snow conditions. I think it’s a cultural thing, or perhaps just a lack of awareness.’ David Campbell, owner of the Glencoe Ski Centre comments: ‘Put it this way, there’s a blizzard up in Glencoe today, which has forced us to close the resort. We’re getting 6cm every three hours, with over two feet at the top of the hill and this is supposed to be spring! I believe we’re having one of the best seasons for spring snow for at least 10 if not 50 years, yet this time of the year we only get a 1/3 of the traffic. With great weather and no queues now is definitely the time go skiing’ Tue, 11 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=313 The Wilderness Adventure race arrives in Lochaber and to get you involved Saturday 20th August will see an exciting eventin Fort William High Street. There will be a climbing wall open between 4pm and 7.30pm, a procession of the athletes at 4pm, live music from 7pm, and an exciting demonstration event which will have the competitors taking part in a prologue event in a around Fort William town centre, showcasing adventure racing to the public - come down and take part in the fun! Fri, 16 Sep 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=560 From the "Oban Times" 1st December 2005 Fort William and Lochaber's status as a world class outdoor venue could lead to a huge increase in business-related visitors. The news comes after a delegation of the area's key tourism businesses and public bodies completed a successful marketing drive in Edinburgh. Jenny Lewer, Project Co-ordinator for Lochaber's bid to become the Outdoor Capital of the UK, said visitor numbers in Lochaber and Fort William could see a significant boost fromthe growing business travel sector next year. The delegates travelled to the capital to market the area to more than 80 of the main buyers who choose destinations for many of the country's top companies and organisations. TheHighlands Go to Town event, set in the grandeur of the Royal College of PhysiciansHall, was organised by VisitScotland's Business Travel Unit as part ofitsstrategy to attract a larger slice of the lucrative business travel sector to the Highlands. Wed, 21 Dec 2005 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2147 With two weeks to go until the Mountain Bike and Trials World Championships hit Fort William a great new leaflet has been launched. With Nevis Range’s ‘Witches Trails’ closed for competition across the week of the event (3rd – 9th Sep) this guide aims to provide you with some quality alternatives in the area. As a double, consecutive IMBA (International Mountain Bicycling Association) Global Superstar, Scotland is the ideal location for mountain biking; so when you’re planning your trip, don’t forget to pack your cycle legs along with the rest of your kit, get out there and enjoy what’s on offer both locally and further afield. Rides featured range from easy family rides to all day 40km rides for experience riders. The leaflet has been designed to complement an existing rides leaflet available from Off Beat Bikes in Fort William High Street. Nevis Cycles also run a website that gives rides in the area www.greatglenbikes.com , and www.ridefortwilliam.co.uk is another local site that has rides in the area. So bring your bike up if you are planning to come up for the worlds and get busy (alternatively hire bikes from Off Beat or Nevis Cycles ). For more info on the World Champs visit www.fortwilliamworldchamps.co.uk Tue, 21 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2038 In the first week of September, it’s the big one. The Mountain Bike World Championsips and news from the Worlds team on the In Town programme of fringe events surrounding the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships, is that Fort William is likely to be remembered not just for its achievement in hosting this major International sports event but for its efforts to create a warm and entertaining welcome for its thousands of visitors during the week. Organisers of the Worlds, Mike Jardine and Lesley Beck of Rare Management say they are just as keen to include the local community in all the events of the week and whilst the main competition is held at Nevis Range there is a huge amount of activities and entertainment provided in and around town for everyone to enjoy. The Blas Festival for example will be holding two shows in the Nevis Centre during the week, featuring Shooglenifty and Donald Shaw’s Harvest concert. The Surrogate Pink Floyd Band make an appearance at the Nevis Centre during the week and there’s more to be announced over the remaining weeks in the run up to the event. All this on top of the High Street entertainment programme including a prolific Opening Ceremony on Tuesday 4th and return of the Party in the Fort on Saturday 8th, featuring a spectacular high flying display from the UKFMX Motocross team – careful if you’re of a nervous disposition! - and live music from the great Darkwater who have recorded the soundtrack for The Worlds promo DVD. Tue, 24 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3366 Two years ago, the John Muir Trust made headlines around the world when they uncovered a piano during a litter sweep of Ben Nevis. A similar clear up operation last weekend turned up an even more intriguing find - a rusting wheelchair. As well as clearing litter, the working party were dismantling a number of cairns near the summit which can mislead less experienced climbers of the Ben, and were amazed to find the courtesy transport chair, hidden beneath the rocks. The people who abandoned the piano eventually revealed themselves - will the mystery of the wheelchair ever be solved? For full details, see the John Muir Trust's website . Thu, 5 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3136 The Great Glen Ways, a new initiativeprovidingfantastic access and nformation for visitors along the Caledonian Canal and Great Glen Way was launched recently by top Scottish author, broadcaster and business woman, Muriel Gray. The long-distance bike and walking trail and the Caledonian Canal provide fantastic opportunities to explore the iconic beauty and history of the Great Glen,which links Fort William in the west with Inverness in the north-east. This major project has improved navigation and way-marking and introduced top quality public interpretation and information along the way. Forty-nine information and interpretation panels have been installed at key points in the Great Glen to help visitors get the most from their visit to the area. The main themes on the panels cover history, archaeology and folklore; forest management and wildlife; natural history and geology; travel and transport. Way-marker posts and other signs have been improved, making it easier for visitors to find their way. To find out more visit www.greatglenways.info . Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=843 Both Nevis Range and Glencoe ski resorts are enjoying fabulous spring skiing conditions with fresh snow falling over the past week. After a brief spring interlude the white stuff is back with a vengeance, and skiers are enjoying powder snow on a firm base. Both Nevis Range and Glencoe haveexcellent skiing on the upper mountain and the lower runs are improving with the fresh snow. Find out more from the resorts websites: www.nevisrange.co.uk www.glencoemountain.com There are also still a lot of winter climbs in good condition, check out the websites of local guides to see the latest happenings - search winter climbing and winter walking in our quick search. So put those bikinis back in the cupboard because winter ain't over yet! Tue, 4 Apr 2006 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=2619 What a fantastic start to the New Year! Nevis Range ski centre, just outside Fort William, has got a bumper covering of snow and there are great weather conditions predicted for Friday and Saturday. Despite arriving a bit late for the traditional festive holiday period, heavy snowfall last week has already brought hundreds of snowsports fans to the slopes. For all the latest snow reports and conditions visit www.nevisrange.co.uk and take a look for yourself on their new webcam. Take your skiing to the next level... If you love skiing or boarding and would like to do more, how about becoming an instructor? Nevis Range is keen to recruit more instructors at its snowsports school, offering the chance to earn internationally recognised qualifications and develop technical skiing and teaching skills. The minimum age is 16, and you have to be 18 before you can gain your full licence. Contact Nevis Range for more details. Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3382 After months of training and preparation 1350 walkers from the UK and the rest of the world this weekend took part in Britain's most spectacular physical and mental team challenge – The RBS Caledonian Challenge. A truly international field of more than 350 teams from the UK, Ireland, Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, Canada, USA, South Africa and India tackled the ultimate trek through some of the most dramatic and stunningly beautiful areas in the UK. Teams of between 3 and 6 together walked 54 miles along the West Highland Way from Fort William to Loch Lomond. Not only did they be cover the distance of two marathons, but they also ascended heights equal to climbing Ben Nevis twice, all in just twenty four hours! Every team was assisted by their own enthusiastic support crew who drove ahead to meet them with food, drink, blister treatment, fresh socks and words of encouragement at each of the Challenge checkpoints. John Mercer, Scottish Community Foundation's Events Director said: 'The RBS Caledonian Challenge is one of the UK's toughest events. The participants are making a huge effort, challenging themselves physically – to the point where it will hurt - to enhance the quality of life of people living in some of the most remote communities in Britain. On behalf of the Scottish Community Foundation and the hundreds of locally-based charities and voluntary groups we are able to fund as a result, I thank them and their tremendous sponsors who are matching that effort by stretching themselves financially with a really worthwhile donation.' The RBS Caledonian Challenge raises funds for the Scottish Community Foundation, a Scottish charity that supports local charities and community groups across Scotland. Since the Challenge's inception in 1997 almost 11,000 people have raised over £7 million for community projects all over Scotland. Participants are each asked to raise a minimum of £500 for the charity and on average each team raises £2,500 with some teams raising up to £20,000 in previous years! So far this year £317,377.86 has been pledged by teams with team Grand Canyon! from Canyon Offshore E&WA in Dyce, Aberdeenshire, topping the fundraising league table with a very impressive £10,905.00. Taking in some of Scotland's most stunning highland scenery along the way the route starts in Glen Nevis in the shadows of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK, just outside Fort William, travels through Glen Coe via the 'Devil's staircase' to cross the remote Rannoch Moor. Walkers then follow the route through Bridge of Orchy down to Auchtertyre and finally on to the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond where the Challenge finishes at Ardleish. Teams are then whisked over the shores by boat to the finish village at Ardlui. Since the first Challenge 12 years ago the 11,000 walkers have clocked up a total of 513,000 miles; that's the same as walking to the moon and back. The number of miles accumulatively walked by the 2007 participants is the equivalent of two and half times around the Earth. On average, each walker on the RBS Caledonian Challenge takes 108,000 steps along the 54 mile route, drinking on average 15 litres of water and burning off between 8,000 to 10, 000 calories in the process; and around 9,000 pairs of socks are worn by the walkers during each event. For this physical and mental endeavour like no other walkers have been training hard for months following a multitude of training plans and training routes that will have converted even the most hardened couch potato into a hardy, healthy, hill-walking machine. The planning, organisation and training needed before the event also means that team building has been an on-going process where individuals will have learnt how important it is to rely on one another and work together to make this incredible adventure achievable. Maintaining Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3495 Press Release from the Nevis Partnership Repairs to the summit track on Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, begin in earnest this week. The project, which had to be cancelled last summer because of bad weather is being managed by The Nevis Partnership, the Fort William based organisation responsible for co-ordinating environmental and visitor management in the Nevis area, including Ben Nevis, Glen Nevis, river Nevis and the surrounding landscape. The essential works, which can only be carried out in the summer months, owing to the altitude, have been planned to cause the least possible disruption to the very many visitors and locals expected to be tackling the summit via the main mountain track over the coming weeks. Nevis Partnership manager, Brian Wilshaw, said “I’m delighted that this work has now started following the disappointment of last summer. Track repairs at this altitude are unprecedented in the UK, so a great deal of effort has been put in to this project at the planning stage to try to ensure a successful outcome with minimum impact on both visitors and the environment. All materials used will be locally sourced and the effect of the work will be to provide better protection for the rare and delicate lichen and moss species unique to this location by encouraging walkers to keep to the track.” The summit track works are a major part of the large Heritage Lottery funded “Ben Nevis Mountain Path Heritage Project” and further financial support has been provided by The Highland Council and Scottish Natural Heritage. During the repairs, which are expected to last 8 -10 weeks, contractors Highland Conservation Ltd and Upland Contracts Ltd will have a work camp based at the half way lochan, together with a day shelter and store at MacLean’s steep. Despite the recent down turn in the weather, airlifts of equipment to these locations have already been completed – much to the relief of all concerned! Tourists and climbers are asked to take particular care for the duration of the project, following the advice given on temporary notices and signs and also responding to any requests from the contractors themselves. Once the summit works are complete, it is hoped that attention can be shifted to areas of the main track a little lower down the mountain – and indeed The Nevis Partnership is currently busy securing the necessary funds to repair the sections around the Red Burn, as well as addressing other pressing path issues on Ben Nevis. These include completion of the Allt a’ Mhuilinn track, repairs to the track between John’s Wall and the CIC hut and agreeing a way forward for the path that descends to (and ends at!) the half way lochan. Mr Wilshaw added, “These are exciting times for the Partnership as it strives to protect and manage the Nevis area. With the support of our partners, visitors, the local community and public and private funders, we hope to make substantial progress in the coming months across a range of projects that underpin our main aim, which is to facilitate responsible access to the whole of the Nevis Area through integrated management for the benefit of all” Thu, 3 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4834 Ardnamurchan Charters weekly sailings have had very successful wildlife spottings over the last few weeks, each week trips such as whale and shark watching trips, trips to Tobermory and the Treshnish Islands all take place, with the opportunity of spotting not only whales, dolphins, basking sharks and gannets but enjoying the fantastic scenery!! Just last week a Minke Whale was spotted just off Kilchoan and around 14 sharks travelling to and from the Treshnish Islands, along with fantastic sightings of porpoises. For more information on the trips running email ardcharters@aol.com or call 01972 500208/ 07799608199 www.west-scotland-marine.com Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3541 A new collaboration between First ScotRail and Friends of Nevis means that the Friends now have a daily presence in Fort William station, with an information stand and merchandise stall established to offer visitors and local people the chance to find out more about supporting and protecting iconic Ben Nevis and the stunning landscape that surrounds it. Friends of Nevis is a subscription and volunteer initiative set up by The Nevis Partnership earlier this year as part of the Ben Nevis Mountain Path Heritage Project, with support from the Heritage Lottery Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. So far, the Friends have attracted a number of corporate sponsors and individual members and volunteers have completed a highly successful litter pick in lower Glen Nevis. Plans for Friends volunteers to undertake path maintenance and repair work on the Ben later this summer are well underway, with full training on offer for all those taking part. The stand at Fort William station, which is being staffed for the most part by Friends of Nevis volunteers themselves, is operating between 9.30 and 10.45 in the morning, to coincide with the arrival of the Sleeper and the departure of the Jacobite steam train – a very busy time for everyone at the station and therefore an ideal opportunity to highlight the issues affecting Ben Nevis. The main aim is to raise awareness of these issues, but visitors to the stand can also purchase a range of appealing, small souvenir/merchandise items, many of which feature wonderful images of the Nevis area by Fort William photographer, Alex Gillespie. They can also get involved in volunteering for or subscribing to the Friends of Nevis, secure in the knowledge that all money raised will be put straight back into projects such as path repairs and litter picks. Friends organiser, Liz Wilshaw, said, “It’s really good news for us that First ScotRail and the staff at Fort William station are supporting us by allowing this stand to operate – so I’m very grateful to them. There are huge numbers of people from all over the world passing through the station at this time of year and I’m sure many of them will be interested in how we look after the Ben and the work done by the Friends of Nevis to help ensure safe and responsible access to the whole of the Nevis area for everyone” To maximise the potential of this station venture, volunteers are still needed to staff the stand itself! Anyone who can spare just 90 minutes for the Ben one morning this summer is asked to get in touch with Liz Wilshaw on 01397 701088 or e mail info@friendsofnevis.co.uk. Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3664 Whilst most of us were tucked up in bed last weekendonOctober 12th, a group of dedicated mountain bikers were taking part in a 24 hour race in Leanachan Forest up here in the highlands. The course uses part of the World Champs Cross Country course 'The Witches Trails' so parts of it are tricky in the day let alone at night. The winner, Jamie Cameron, completed 27 laps of the 7 mile course and in total the competitors rode 14,000 miles! To get an idea of what taking part in an event like this might be like go to the great MTB TV video on the Bike Magic Website website. Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3547 Vertical Descents and Fired Art Cafe have joined forces to offer a great new tourism experience here in the Outdoor Capital. with their brand new RIB you can go on daily wildlife tours, with tours leaving from Ballachulish and Fort William, or for the more adventurous go coasteering with a difference - remote access coasteering using the new boat to get into places that are usually inaccessible. Coasteering – moving around a coastline using different techniques (scrambling, cliff jumping, swimming, climbing) - is one of the most rapidly growing adventure sports within the UK and fits neatly with the image and activities already offered by Vertical Descents such as canyoning and white water rafting. The boat itself is a modern Rigid Hulled Inflatable boat seating 12 passengers and includes parent and child seats to give an all round family experience. The boat was designed specifically for marine eco tours by commercial RHIB specialists QuinQuari Marine – much of the boat was built in Ballachulish by Tony Hill of QuinQuari adding to the all local impact this new venture has already had. SeaXplorer wildlife tours will run from Saturday 19th July until October and will offer daily trips from Fort William and Ballachulish. Trips range from 1, 1 ½ and 2 hours in duration and will offer passengers a combination of high adventure and exhilaration on a fast boat with the thrill of close encounters with some of the finest landscape and wildlife Scotland has to offer. SeaXplorer is accredited by the national WISE scheme for boat operators working around marine wildlife and takes great care in all approaches during any close encounters. Proving these trips will be for all ages, a couple in their 70’s – Terry and Sheila Walker of Glenachulish - returned from their recent trial tour with an exuberant message “ most thrilling and exhilarating experience on SeaXplorer – can’t wait to do it again. Best thrill since the Big Dipper in Blackpool!” The people behind SeaXplorer and who will for the most part take the helm during trips are Ben Starkie and Simon Green. Ben has driven Vertical Descents forward from its origins 10 years ago into one of the most respected Activity Providers in the UK. Between him and Simon, who joined him a year ago, they have vast experience within the adventure and leisure industry. To book on a Sea Xplorer trip call 07729 937242 or call in at Fired Art Cafe, Fort William High Street - the non pedestrianised end opposite the Police Station. Prices start from £18.50 for adults. To download a timetable for the wildlife tours click here. To download a price list click here. Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3548 On Saturday 19 July 2008, in a very fast but very close race, Fort William based Stephen Cant (The Vital Spark) won the first Glen Nevis River Race on its return to the Lochaber Events Calendar after a break of five years. From 2.30pm 71 intrepid competitors took the plunge at thirty-second intervals from just below the Leg Breaker on a shortened course as a result of the high levels of water. Stephen Cant completed the reduced 1.75 mile course (normally 2 miles) in a very rapid 15 minutes and 32 seconds beating Andy Dytch (The Dark Horse) into second place by a mere 25 seconds and Colin Ross into third by 38 seconds. Jemma Jackson (Super Mook) gave the boys a run for their money completing the course in 16 minutes 19 seconds to take the women's title and fourth place overall. Stephen Cant said: 'It is great to win this race on its welcome return to the Lochaber events calendar. I have competed in a number of river races over the years and it is fantastic to win one at last. I had been up on the river recently getting a bit of practice in but nothing prepared me for the speed of the water following the masses of rain we have had. It was a real buzz! Hearing the cheers from the crowd at the Lower Falls as I jumped off gave me a real energy boost on my way to the finish.' The Glen Nevis River Race is an extreme challenge involving participants navigating through the icy waters of the River Nevis and its many rapids and obstacles on an air-bed (Lilo) in order to raise money for the Lochaber Mountain Rescue, the UK's busiest mountain rescue team. Following the masses of rainfall in the days leading up to the race the water was running extremely high and very fast so event organisers, No Fuss Events, made the decision to cut the race short to avoid some major rapids and obstacles higher up the glen near the official start line, feeling that these might have caused unnecessary problems for the competitors. The rules of the race are clear. Competitors have to be kitted out in wetsuits, crash helmets, buoyancy aids and suitable footwear whilst clutching an air-bed without sides. On entering the freezing water participants have then to follow the deepest course of the river through rocks and rapids, whilst negotiating major obstacles like the Gurgling Gorge, Dead Dog Pool, the Leg Breaker and the Lower Falls Leap (a thirty foot waterfall); finishing in the calmer waters further down the glen. There was a vast array of inflatable paraphernalia on show at the start including giant flipflops, a lobster, some whales and a couple of blow up women strapped in very unladylike poses to a lilo! Fancy dress on top of a wetsuit was also encouraged and some bizarre fashion combinations took to the water. Frazer Coupland of No Fuss Events said: 'We are delighted to have reintroduced this iconic family event to the Outdoor Capital of the UK's events programme; it has given us the opportunity to work with Lochaber Mountain Rescue team and assist them in raising vital funds. It was great to see so may people taking part and more importantly to see so many locals and visitors supporting the competitors the full length of the course. Bring on 2009!' In a successful thirty year run, from 1973 to 2003, the Glen Nevis River Race enjoyed a high media and public profile as an awe inspiring spectacle, a unique challenge (for the likes of Blue Peter's John Noakes, musician and TV presenter Dougie Vipond and star of TV's Taggart, Blythe Duff) and as a worthy fundraising event. More than 3000 people have taken part in the event's history, raising thousands of pounds for the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team based in Fort William. For more information on No Fuss Events go to www.nofussevents.co.uk For more information on Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team go to www.loc Wed, 23 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3607 A new agreement announced by BT Openzone and British Waterways Scotland means visitors to the Caledonian Canal will have access to high speed wireless broadband at various points along the route. Seven outlets along the canal, including Corpach Locks, Laggan Top and Gairlochy in the Outdoor Capital, mean there will be no need to delay sending holiday snaps and virtual postcards to loved ones, checking e-mails or making VoIP calls. The Canal welcomes some 1300 transitting boats each year (half of which originate from Scandinavia and Northern Europe), and tens of thousands of visitors walk some or all of the Great Glen Way from Fort William to Inverness. Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3626 The 2007 UCI Mountain Bike and Trails World Championships in Fort William have won another award! It was given the Best Sporting Event Award at the inaugural Scottish Events Awards, an industry affair organised by the Drum magazine. Fort William took the honours ahead of the UEFA Cup Final, the Cricket One Day International and the Swamp Soccer World Cup. This comes hot on the heels of a hattrick of awards from the professionals who vote for their favourite event on the circuit each year, and Fort William has come out on top for the last 3 years. Tue, 7 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3765 Friends of Nevis is organising a litter blitz of the lower/mid Glen Nevis areas on Saturday 15 November. This family event has been planned to tackle late summer/autumn rubbish - including the aftermath of bonfire celebrations - and to get the glen smartened up before the onset of winter! Friends of Nevis organiser, Liz Wilshaw, of The Nevis Partnership, said: “Our first glen litter sweep in May was a great success, attracting the support of more than thirty five separate volunteers. The impact was very noticeable and we were particularly pleased to be able to get rid of some really deep-seated, long term rubbish! Hopefully, the autumn event won’t require quite such drastic forays into the thick undergrowth and this is one reason why we’d like to encourage family groups to take part, as well as individuals”. The litter sweep will run from 11am until around 4 pm and a highlight for volunteers will be an excellent free hot lunch, including seasonal treats, prepared by Fired Art Café in conjunction with Lidl and local food producers. This will be served in situ in the Glen and will provide a welcome break and sociable interlude for all the hard workers! In addition, teas/coffees, parking and a meeting point will be provided By Ben Nevis Highland Centre at the Nevis roundabout. Liz added, “It’s great news for the Friends that local businesses are proving so supportive with all our endeavours. Decent meeting facilities and quality refreshments will make all the difference when we’re tackling mounds of other people’s rubbish on a chilly autumn day…past experience has shown that “rewards” like this can really turn a volunteer event into an enjoyable social occasion and I’m hoping for a cracking turnout this time.” All equipment, safety briefing and full support for participants will be provided on the day and individuals or families/groups wanting to join in and really make a difference should get in touch with Liz beforehand on 01397 701088 or info@friendsofnevis.co.uk. Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3808 John Muir Trust volunteer work parties have removed more than 120 cairns from the summit of Ben Nevis. Around twenty cairns have been left along the main path close to the summit. The John Muir Trust - owners of Ben Nevis since 2000 - has cleared these cairns to preserve the wild and remote feeling at the top of Britain’s highest mountain. The cairns were also being used as rubbish bins and their proliferation could give people a false sense of security which is not an adequate replacement for map reading skills necessary in poor weather conditions. “These randomly laid cairns could easily deceive walkers into thinking they were following a path.” commented Sandy Maxwell. “On Ben Nevis, like all mountains in Scotland, the weather can change rapidly so it is essential to be prepared to navigate yourself.” The cairns, most of them only a few feet high, have been randomly built up over the years by walkers. They are often started by a collection of stones to cover up litter left on the summit. As they are built up over time by passing walkers, more and more rubbish is stuffed into their nocks and crannies. John Muir Trust work parties dismantling these cairns also picked up hundreds of bags of litter from Ben Nevis. Their excavations even uncovered a piano and wheelchair. Cairns and memorials on Scotland’s hills are a source of intense controversy amongst walkers and conservationists. The debate rages between those who think that they add to the experience of a good walk and others who are convinced that any man-made structure is an unnecessary intrusion into a remote landscape. The John Muir Trust has removed these cairns in line with its wild land policy to ‘remove redundant non-archaeological structures.’ The decision to leave around twenty cairns on Ben Nevis was a pragmatic one. With over 200,000 people walking to the summit every year it is widely recognised that some sort of waymarker is necessary to help prevent people from loosing their way. “These cairns should not be used as a primary feature for navigation,” warned Sandy Maxwell. “There is no substitute for a map and compass, and if you are not confident with your navigation skills, do not attempt to walk to the summit of Ben Nevis in poor weather. The cairns are spaced too widely apart to be followed in poor visibility.” There are also historic reasons for keeping these cairns on Ben Nevis. They were built as part of the pony track that wound up to a Victorian Observatory, constructed on the summit in 1883. The observatory, funded by private donors, provided constant meteorological date for twenty years before being abandoned in 1904. Near the ruins of the observatory is the world famous peace cairn. Dedicated to universal world peace the Fort William-Dudley Memorial and Peace Cairn was built on top of Britain’s highest mountain on VJ Day in 1945. “Ben Nevis is no ordinary mountain and we are committed to protecting its unique history together with its rugged landscape", concluded Sandy Maxwell. "Now that the main work of clearing unwanted cairns is over, I urge visitors to Britain highest mountain to leave its summit as you find it.” Mon, 17 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4439 The Dark Sky Scotland partnership has namedthe Glen Nevis Visitor Centre grounds, near Fort William, alongwith Newbattle Abbey College in Dalkeith, as the world's first Dark Sky Discovery Sites. The two sites, which are relatively free of light pollution, tall buildings and are safe and accessible, were chosen following a winter of community astronomy activities led by the John Muir Trust , the Highland Council Countryside Rangers and the Forestry Commission Scotland. Dan Hillier, from the Royal Observatory Edinburgh Visitor Centre, which leads the Dark Sky Scotland partnership, said: “Many of us live in light polluted towns and cities yet in every community there is somewhere that is the best local place to go to look up and discover the stars. From these places, which might be a park or playing field, you can see planets, hundreds of stars, space satellites and other wonders of the night sky. The organisations that have identified these first two Dark Sky Discovery Sites have taken a world leading role in helping people to discover the Universe that is on their doorsteps.” Councillor Iain Ross of The Highland Council's Planning, Environment and Development Committee said: "There are wonderful opportunities in the Highlands to view and experience the fascination of planets and space. Glen Nevis is an accessible location which offers a site free of light pollution and one where people can enjoy a range of community activities." "Many people visit Glen Nevis from developed areas with lots of light pollution and are often amazed to see shooting stars, the Milky Way and entire constellations at night in Scotland's wilder places," commented Alison Austin, Nevis Conservation Officer for the John Muir Trust. "It is great that Dark Skies Discovery Sites can highlight places like this and help people discover the night sky." Catriona Morrison, communities and greenspaces officer for Scottish Natural Heritage which, alongside the Scottish Government and the Institute for Physics Scotland, funded the programme, said: “This might, at first sight, seem to be an odd thing for SNH to fund but it isn’t. We are very keen to encourage people in urban areas to get out and enjoy the green spaces where they live. Looking up into the night sky and wondering at the beauty of the stars is one way of doing this and the night sky itself is an often forgotten part of our heritage. “I hope this initiative will be a great success and will give many more people the opportunity to have an enjoyable time outdoors. This project will also help to raise awareness of the importance of places where people can appreciate the night sky. “ More Dark Sky Discovery Sites will be identified during 2009 by organisations involved in the Dark Sky Scotland programme and similar Dark Sky programmes in other parts of the UK and Ireland. A similar initiative is being set up in the United States. Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4570 Be prepared for a programme full of variety, spice and plenty of life! That’s the message behind the Party in the Fort and The World Cup Ceilidh for Saturday 6th June entertainment. These two events have fast become regular supporting attractions to the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup and are well established with the competitors and visitors to the event. But funders are keen to point out that it’s also a chance for our local community to benefit from the mountain bike event being held at Nevis Range by enjoying some top class musical entertainment provided mainly free to the public by The Highland Council and Highlands and Islands Enterprise with support from The Outdoor Capital of the UK. The success of the Nevis Centre’s ‘World Cup Ceilidh’ in 2008 prompted calls for a return of the late night music show. The show attracted hundreds of people last year all enjoying a fantastic night of music and dancing. To keep the tempo upbeat for 2009, The Nevis Centre have called on one of The Highlands favourite bands to deliver what will be a foot stomping night of entertainment. The Vatersay Boys are hugely popular with a big following and they’ll show our visitors from all over the world, Scottish music at its best. The World Cup Ceilidh late night event starts from 10pm and finishes in the early hours of Sunday morning at 3am. Tickets are available at £10 from the Nevis Centre. Earlier in the evening, in The Parade, High Street, the Party in the Fort will be once again, packed with outdoor stage performances from 3pm in the afternoon to 11pm at night, finishing just as the Nevis Centre event gets underway. Keen for all the family to enjoy this night of free entertainment the programme starts with some talented young musicians selected to tour Scotland as “The Ceilidh Trailers” performing in venues throughout summer. They fill the afternoon slot with some wonderful traditional Scottish music to set the tone of the evening. The involvement this year of Fèisean nan Gàidheal, the organisation which supports the development of community-based Gaelic arts throughout Scotland, has allowed greater access to some wonderful Scottish musicians. The evening’s entertainment will continue from around 6pm with an anticipated performance from Marianne Fraser and Band. Marianne is an up and coming young talent and managing to fit the Party in the Fort set as she tours UK and Europe with her band. Filling the only non Scottish Trad slot for the evening is UK’s 2009 breakthrough band Pearl and Puppets. If you don’t know who they are just yet, you soon will do. They’re expected to do as well as Amy MacDonald and Paolo Nutini in the international arena, increasing the cluster of immense talent coming out of Scotland today. The whole evening is set to deliver a family festival atmosphere in the town. Finishing off the evening with a truly blistering set will be more of Scotland’s best with Kevin O’Neill and friends who entertained us magnificently last year at the Nevis Centre. So much so, we’ve brought them out into the open air stage to play to the masses leading us into the late night Ceilidh at the Nevis Centre. Organiser Julie Green of Fired Art Events adds “for the last couple of years we’ve tried to bring into the town various Motorcross stunt shows. We’ve always fallen at the last hurdle in the past so I’m hesitant to say that the spectacular Monster Stunt Show which is currently being shipped over from USA will actually make it across the ocean into The Parade in Fort William. I’m trying not to tempt fate but we’re doing everything we can to make sure it happens this year though we won’t be able to confirm this until Thursday. If it does make it, without doubt it will be one of the most sensational shows yo Tue, 2 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3585 Nevis Partnership seeks to reduce environmental damage and improve visitor orientation on the slopes of Britain’s highest mountain Following consultation with landowners, local user groups and path specialists, Fort William based charitable company, The Nevis Partnership, has produced a proposal to reduce environmental damage between the outflow of Lochan Meall an t’Suidhe (the Halfway Lochan cgrid ref. NN 145 732) on Ben Nevis and the upper car park (not open to the public) at the start of the Allt a Mhuilinn track (grid ref. NN148 750). This path takes climbers and mountaineers into the North Face of the Mountain and the CICmountain refuge(which is not open to the public). It is hoped that the proposed work will also help lessen the incidence of visitors making the mistake of taking the wider and better surfaced lochan path in the belief that it is part of a route to the summit of Ben Nevis or back to Glen Nevis. The proposals intend to make the Lochan path narrower, and then to lead climbers and walkers down on the eastern bank of the burn that comes out of the lochan, currently many climbers and walkers come down the western side of the burn as this way keeps the topprivatecar part in sight. From this carparkthere is a good track and path down to the North Face Car Park. However the ground on the western side of the burn (the right hand side as you walk down) is much wetter and is more environmentally sensitive and is currently being damaged by this traffic. Full details of the plans are available by visiting The Nevis Partnership website on www.nevispartnership.co.uk and feedback on the proposals from locals and visitors with an interest in this area are welcomed. The Partnership will consider any comments/feedback at its Board meeting on 15 December 2008, so those wishing to comment are asked to do so by email to info@nevispartnership.co.uk before 30 November 2008, to allow time for the comments to be collated and studied prior to the meeting. Mon, 1 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4625 Get ready for a brand new experience as the Nevis Range opens their long-awaited Red Downhill Track next Wednesday (24th June). For a sneak preview, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GShyWn5RYoo Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4857 Have you ever dreamed about getting away from it all? Want to turn that dream into a reality? This could be your chance. An opportunity has arisen to lease Canna's cafe/restaurant, together with residential accommodation. Applicants must have proven catering expeirence and be able to open the business by Easter 2010. Canna is the most westerly of the Small Isles, 4.5 miles long by no more than one mile long, and has only 17 permanent residents. The community is interested in any additional skills applicants are able to offer. To request an information pack and application form please e-mail Deb Baker (Secretary, Canna Community Association) on debbaker21@yahoo.co.uk . Applications to be received by 2nd October 2009. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3634 It seems that the whale that was seenlast week in Loch Eil is still around. News is coming in that there have been more recent sightings. It is believed to be a bottle nose whale - which is a deep divingspecies and although parts of Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil (adjoining sea lochs) are deep they will be very different from the open depths the whale is used to. There are narrows in both Loch Eil and Loch Linnhe which are believed to be stopping theanimal fromswimming back to it's normal habitat. Although we are glad when visitors stay here in the Outdoor Capital we hope this whale leaveswhenever it wants to and doesn't end up in distress. To find more on the story go to the BBC news site To find out more about whales in the western Highlands go to the Whale and Dolphin Hebridean Trust Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4844 August 25th saw the official opening of the new cross country Red Route at Nevis Range, Fort William. The course almost 3 miles long took just over1 year to build with thefinancial helpof Sport Scotland and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. The track which runs along side the Fort William World Cup downhill course combines a mixture of natural bedrock, metre wide boardwalk and gravel paths, and is the UK's only red graded downhill trail accessed by gondola. Gondolas are fitted with specially adapted carriers to take mountain bikers and their bikes to the start of the routewhichlies2132ft on Aonach Mor, without the need to pedal up. Dougie Vipond from BBC's The Adventure Show joined spectators yesterday in the typical windy and wet Fort William weather for the official launch of the new track. More information about the track can be found at http://bike.nevisrange.co.uk Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5265 NEW ALL DAY SUNDAY ROASTS 1-8PM EVERY SUNDAY NEW RETURN BOAT TRIP FROM MALLAIG TO KNOYDART. 2 course special just £9.95 at the Old Forge. Why not pop across for your Sunday Roast? A new Sunday boat service leaves Mallaig pier steps 12.30 return trip departs Inverie Knoydart 5pm only £15 return on the Odyssey or Meri 3 to book a space on the boat ring 01687 462916 The Old Forge, Inverie, Knoydart, 01687 462 267 for more information.. Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3761 The upcoming film, writing, photography and art competitions at The Fort William Mountain Festival 2009 may well attract international creative stars but that's no reason not to enter yourself. Budding filmmakers, writers, photographers and artists are invited to enter their mountain culture related work into competitions championing outdoor adventure, breathtaking mountain landscape and the culture that surrounds it. For full details of all the competitions, visit the Mountain Festival website . Tue, 28 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3768 German tourists will be able to fly direct to the Highlands next summer, following the announcement that Lufthansa will be trialling a new weekly flight between Dusseldorf and Inverness. The Outdoor Capital of the UK was one of a number of industry bodies who were instrumental in securing this exciting new opportunity to boost inbound tourism for the Highlands. It is encouraging news that, in these troubled economic times when many airlines are cutting back on routes, Lufthansa feels confident that this flight will prove popular and sustainable. Germany is Scotland’s second largest international market for inbound tourism after the USA, accounting for 278,000 trips in 2006 and visitor spend of £123 million. For more details, visit the HIAL website . Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3816 Following his success last year in being invited into the prestigious Volvo Keel boat Squad, twenty year old Chris Cooper from Glencoe has been promoted from the Regional Scotland and Northern Squad into the elite UK National team. There are 15 sailors in the National Team. Chris started sailing as a youngster in Glencoe, and with the encouragement of family, friends and the Glencoe Boat Club, soon was running up an impressive sailing c.v., culminating in this latest major boost to his yachting ambitions. The Volvo RYA Keelboat Programme was launched five years ago to give young sailors aged between 16 and 24 the chance to establish themselves in the world of keelboats whether junior dinghy champions or experienced yachtspeople. Those selected for the squads enjoy the benefits of having unparalleled access to specialist RYA keelboat training and coaching, grants, placement on viable keelboat race campaigns and use of the RYA’s own fleet of eight J80s as well as the John Merricks Sailing Trust-loaned TP52. David Atkinson, RYA Racing services Manager said “It has always been that being part of the Volvo RYA Keelboat Programme opens up fantastic opportunities for young sailors to be invited to get involved in higher level big boat activity but as the profile and reputation of the programme has become further enhanced so those doors seem to be opening sooner for those who want most to make it happen" Chris is studying Naval Architecture and Small Craft Engineering at Strathclyde and works hard at fitting his extensive sailing schedule with a demanding academic course. Next season he is planning to compete in most of the main IRC UK Regattas on a King 40, on which he competed successfully in 2008. For more information on the Glencoe boat club go to: http://www.glencoeboatclub.org/ For more information about sailing in the Outdoor Capital click here . Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3817 The Highland Mountain Culture Association, based in Fort William, have today (25 November 2008) announced that Dave 'Cubby' Cuthbertson, a climber, mountain guide and mountain photographer, who has been inextricably linked to the development of cutting edge climbing in Scotland for the past two and a half decades, will be the new Patron of the Fort William Mountain Festival. Dave 'Cubby' Cuthbertson comes on board as patron for a festival that has gone from strength to strength since its launch in 2002. As one of Scotland's best ever mountaineers and a dynamic proponent of Scottish mountaineering he brings a huge endorsement of quality, strong mountain roots and an international perspective to the Mountain Festival. The festival will draw on Cubby's background and experience to continue to stage wide ranging and diverse events that celebrate every aspect of mountain culture, from industry to leisure and art. Mike Pescod, Chairman of the Highland Mountain Culture Association, organisers of the Fort William Mountain Festival, said: 'I am delighted we have Cubby as the new patron of the Fort William Mountain Festival. He has been a great inspiration to me for my climbing and guiding. But more importantly he has a huge amount of experience in bringing people to appreciate the mountains through his guiding, photography and film work. He also has an industrial background and realises the importance of the mountains in providing us with jobs. Cubby is keen to help take the festival forward and he will be a great asset to us. I'm looking forward to working with him to make the festival even better.' Even in today's highly competitive environment there are few climbers who have excelled in all departments of British climbing to the degree that Dave 'Cubby' Cuthbertson has. During the 1970's and 1980's he undertook many bold climbs that heralded a new level of difficulty hitherto unseen north of the border. He grabbed Scottish climbing by the scruff of the neck and dragged its standards skyward, both in 1979 with his ascent of the route 'Wild Country' on The Cobbler in Argyll, and in 1983, with his ascent of 'Requiem' at Dumbarton Rock, a climb which many informed commentators regarded at the time as the hardest rock climb in the world - not just Scotland. This was followed by some breathtaking winter ascents of routes in the Highlands including 'Stormy Petrel' on Ben Nevis and 'Guerdon Grooves' in Glen Coe. Dave 'Cubby' Cuthbertson said about his appointment: 'There is a great energy and buzz about Fort William, The Outdoor Capital of the UK and, together with The Fort William Mountain Festival, adventure enthusiasts from all over the world are being inspired to visit our fabulous landscape here in the Scottish Highlands. I've climbed and walked in these parts for nearly forty years and at this stage in my outdoor career being patron of such a prestigious event is not only an honour and a recognition of my contribution to Scottish climbing, but also provides me with a great sense of belonging.' The Fort William Mountain Festival, presented with The Nevis Partnership, is a nine-day celebration of mountains and the culture that surrounds them and runs from 6 - 14 March 2009. During the best winter walking and climbing conditions of the year, audiences will be entertained by a varied and packed programme of mountain sports, films, lectures, guided walks, workshops, exhibitions, literature, photography and music for residents and visitors who want to learn about and celebrate mountain culture. The full programme for the 2009 Fort William Mountain Festival will be announced on Tuesday 2 December 2008 - http://www.mountainfestival.co.uk Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3839 The best of the best in the fields of climbing, kayaking, and skiing and much more are flocking to Fort William from Friday 06 to Saturday 14 March for the 2009 Fort William Mountain Festival . The launch of the festival today (Tuesday 02 December 2008), unveiled a programme that will put the Outdoor Capital of the UK - Fort William and Lochaber - at the centre of Scotland's events programme in 2009. Presented with The Nevis Partnership, the week long celebration promises a varied and entertaining programme packed with mountain sports, films, lectures, guided walks, skills workshops and fringe activities for all those who want to learn about and celebrate mountain culture. Highlights of the 2009 Fort William Mountain Festival include: Fast and Light in the Himalaya - the world renowned mountaineer Adrian Burgess, a pioneer of high-altitude climbs will join forces with Slovenian climbing superstar Marko Prezelj, known for his impeccable style on spectacularly difficult routes, to share the passion that drives them to keep exploring ever-higher and more exhilarating climbs. Following these empowering talks the winner of the second Scottish Award for Excellence in Mountain Culture, sponsored by Rio Tinto Alcan, an annual award to celebrate outstanding contributions to Scotland's mountains, will be announced. Paddle Sports evening with Lee Kelly, the legendary whitewater kayaker, photographer and filmmaker. Snowsports Evening with Myrtle Simpson, the first woman to ski across the Greenland icecap, who will trace the rapid development of Scottish Skiing from an occasional aid to winter mountaineering to the weekend recreation of tens of thousands. Dave MacLeod, a local climber at the forefront of the modern sport who is opening a new chapter of world-class climbs on Ben Nevis, will host a Climbing Evening. He will explain his unique high-risk, high-stakes approach through inspiring chat and the screening of two incredible films of his recent climbs. The Best of Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour & International Adventure Film competition evenings - the most inspiring mountain films from the UK and around the world will once again be the festival hot tickets. From jaw dropping action to fascinating mountain culture and wildlife; two nights of thrilling entertainment guaranteed. This year organisers are offering a special Film Buffs ticket that will insure entry to both nights. Mike Pescod, Chairman of the Highland Mountain Culture Association, organisers of the festival said - 'Our 2009 programme is bursting at the seams with exciting and inspiring events and workshops guaranteed to get you into the mountain mood. We are delighted to be welcoming a superb line up of guests from the worlds of mountaineering, paddling, music, poetry, writing and broadcasting including Adrian Burgess, Marko Prezelj, Dave MacLeod, Cameron McNeish, Linda Cracknell, Hamish MacDonald and the 4-MALITY Percussion Quartet to Lochaber to showcase their work and share their passion for the outdoors.' The festival will kick off in style with the 'Party at Nevis Range', the official opening ceilidh at the Snowgoose Restaurant at the top of the Nevis Range mountain gondola. Further highlights include an evening exploring the little known yet rich heritage of the Working Mountains in Lochaber. With the help of early photographs and archive material the history of Rio Tinto Alcan, one of the area's biggest employers, will be explored; from the harnessing of Lochaber's water power, one of the most ambitious projects of the industrialization of Scotland, in 1929 to supply new aluminium smelters at Fort William and Kinlochleven, to the amazing innovator it continues to be today. Nevis Connections, a whole day of themed walks, talks, Thu, 4 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=3843 Deciding whether a fish is a suitable size to take for the table is a cause for concern for many conservation minded anglers. Some use their federations’s / association’s or club’s competition size limits, others the government’s minimum landing size (MLS). Unfortunately none of these reflect the maturity of a fish and it’s ability to reproduce. SSACN’s GFAC (Give Fish a Chance) sizes are a voluntary measure for anglers wishing to do their bit to help ensure the future of a species - by adopting these, anglers can be reasonably certain a fish has had at least one chance to breed. Please remember, GFAC sizes are recommended as a voluntary measure. To download the new guidelines, visit the SSACN's website. Mon, 8 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4275 Fresh from winning yet another gong for Echo Wallat the Fort William Mountain Festival , Claire McLeod journeyed south to Glasgow last Friday and beat off stiff competition to be crowned Best Director at the Bafta Scotland New Talent Awards 2009. Echo Wall has received much praise for it's personal and honest approach -Clairedocuments husband Dave's preparations to take on the daunting Echo Wall on Ben Nevis - and has received acclaim and plaudits both from within and outwith the climbing community. It's a film that can be appreciated by non-climbers as enthusiasts. You can hear Claire discussing Echo Wall and her achievements here , and read about the big night on her blog . Tue, 17 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4523 The spectacular and scenic setting at Nevis Range just outside Fort William will host three world class trials competitions, with the first of these being a round of the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship taking place on 26/27th June. The fabulous venue at the foot of the famous Ben Nevis mountain will then welcome the Trial des Nations in September 2011. This will be the first time ever that this inter countries team competition has been hosted on the UK mainland during its entire history. The initial three year plan will then be brought to a close in June 2012, when the Scottish Highlands enjoys yet another round of the SPEA FIM Trial World Championship. The2010 event will officially launch at 3.30pm on Sunday 3rd May 2009 in the High Street at Fort William, immediately after the Scottish Six Day Trial Parade. Twelve times World trials champion Dougie Lampkin will be on hand to perform the duties both on and off his bike. Tickets for the 2010 event will be on sale from late June this year. Full details of the event can be found on the official event website – www.ukworldtrial.com Fri, 1 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4165 The Outdoor Capital recently lent their support to Lochaber Provost Allan Henderson's appeal to Transport Scotland to re-think their decision not to build lay-bys on a stretch of the upgraded'Road to the Isles'. Referring toafive-mile section of the A830 between Loch nam Uamh and Arisaig, the Provost said, "This is a beautiful section of coastline and it is crazy to think that people won’t want to stop and enjoy some of the lovely Highland views out to the Small Isles.” The Outdoor Capital organised a petition to support the inclusion of lay-bys in this area, and are glad to report that Transport Scotland have reversed their initial policy, saying “It is clear the local community was firmly in favour of laybys on this route and we have listened to their views on this matter." Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4183 Sportscotland’s acclaimed Avalanche Information Service has launched a new technological innovation which aims to ensure walkers, climbers and skiers have access to the latest safety information even once they have left for the mountains. The Avalanche Report Service, which previously has only been available via the internet, can now be accessed by subscribing to a text service to mobile phones. The service will operate for any one or more of the five most popular Scottish mountain areas covered by the Avalanche Information Service reports: North Cairngorms, South Cairngorms, Lochaber, Glencoe and Creag Meagaidh. For only £1 per message, a person can subscribe to the service by sending a key word to the number 88020. The relevant area text will be sent out daily at 1800 hours enabling users to adjust their plans if necessary. Having sent the keyword to the number 88020 subscribers will be sent a free text confirming that the text service is active, explaining the cost and how to terminate. The SAIS daily forecasted avalanche report is produced by a dedicated team of professionals who assess the avalanche hazard in all weathers and comprises the observers interpretation of the previous days snowpack stability along with the weather forecast. For winter mountain users it is critical to obtain the Avalanche Report from the SAIS at the correct time, this is essential in that the ‘best time’ for this is at the planning stage. If the weather report and avalanche information are incorporated into the planning of any mountain walk, hill journey, ski tour or climbing excursion before going into the hills it will enable better and safer route choice. More information on how to subscribe to the text service, whichis now live,is available from the SAIS website. Mon, 2 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4444 Room 13 is a ground-breaking philosophy based on giving youngster responsibility and artistic freedom, and operates in the creative art fields. Originating in Caol near Fort William several schools in the Outdoor Capital now run Room 13 or Studio 13 projects, and the initiative has spread internationally. Room 13 Lochyside is pleased to present an exhibition of new work inspired by the National Galleries of Scotland. The exhibition, which features work from Room 13 Lochyside and Room 13 International Studio Network, will be on display from 25th March to 29th April 2009 at the National Gallery of Scotland, Edinburgh. On Tuesday 31st March, Natalie Brayshaw and Stephanie Maclennan of Room 13 Lochyside along with Mark Faulkner of Lochaber High School will be presenting a lunchtime lecture at the Gallery called: Room 13 - The Future of Art? As well as this Marley Falconer of Room 13 Caol has been chosen to represent the UK at Tate Modern with her artwork 'Solar Girl'. The exhibition opening will be held on 2nd April. Marley will travel to London to participate in events organized by Unilever for the 15 winning representatives from 15 countries worldwide. 'Solar Girl', along with 14 other winning artworks from around the world, will be on display in the Crore Education Centre until 2nd May. For more information go to: http://www.room13scotland.com/room13network.php?which=news#10 Fri, 3 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4461 The Nevis Partnership , the Fort William based organisation responsible for co-ordinating environmental and visitor management in the Nevis area, have announced confirmation of a major European grant which will enable badly needed repair works to be carried out on the Ben Nevis Mountain Track during spring and summer 2009. Repairs to the summit track on the UK’s highest mountain were successfully completed last year and now further work is planned between John’s Wall and zig-zag corner 3, including the Red Burn – an area that has suffered considerably from erosion and general wear and tear over recent years. The project is being managed by The Nevis Partnership’s own Footpath Consultant and is due to start on Monday 27 April, weather permitting! A total of just under half a million pounds has been secured to carry out this work and also fund a project to develop and foster a “Sense of Place” in Glen Nevis, including tidying and defining the actual entrance to the Glen in a way which befits its status as the access point to one of the most renowned and beautiful Glens in Scotland. Sense of Place will also include development of the Friends of Nevis volunteer base, new interpretation, leaflets and guides, production of a book of images and poems about Glen Nevis and a creative writing and photography portal linked to the Partnership’s website . To fund the whole project, over £200,000 of funds from the European Regional Development Fund have been matched with generous support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage and the Scottish Mountaineering Trust and it is hoped that the track repairs will be completed during the (relatively) clement summer season. Joint contractors Upland Contracts Ltd and Highland Conservation Ltd will be keen to capitalise on any spells of good weather, especially as their teams will be based in a temporary camp at Lochan Meall an T-Suidhe for the duration of the works! Nevis Partnership manager, Brian Wilshaw, said “Following the success of last summer’s summit repairs on Ben Nevis, we are very pleased that this track repair work and the Sense of Place project can now go ahead, thanks to a comprehensive funding package from ERDF and our other providers. Our team of path contractors work largely by hand and a base at the Lochan is an important factor in reducing their walk in/out time. If all goes to plan, this part of the project will be finished by autumn of this year, whilst the Sense of Place element will continue into 2010. We hope the combined effect of these projects will be to improve visitor experience and also further engage both local people and visitors in the future care and maintenance of this beautiful and unique area” Tourists and climbers are asked to take particular care for the duration of the track repair project, following the advice given on temporary notices and signs and also responding to any requests from the contractors themselves. Whilst the Ben Track works are going on, The Nevis Partnership will be continuing to negotiate to secure the further funding required to complete the final (upper) section of the Allt a’ Mhuilinn track and also repairs to the track between John’s Wall and the CIC hut. “This is a busy and productive time for the Partnership. We hope our established and expanding Friends of Nevis volunteer group will continue to help manage the lower tracks and paths in the Nevis Area and that the volunteer efforts will be complemented by this far-reaching new project. During the next 18 months the local community and visitors should start to reap the benefits of these substantial improvements on the Ben and in the Glen – all underpinning our main aim, which continu Thu, 9 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4542 World BMX champion Shanaze Reade will make her professional mountain biking debut at the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Fort William on 6-7 June. The Fort William 4X event will be ideal preparation for the 20-year-old who will launch a bid for the 4X World Championship title later this year. "I've always loved mountain biking but this will be my first real test competitively," she said. "I want to prove that I'm versatile and I'm going for a big year." Reade is a multi-talented cyclist, and has already won a world track cycling gold medal in the women's team sprint in 2008, and a bronze this year. She was hot favourite for Olympic BMX gold in Beijing but suffered a crash as she challenged for the lead in the final and missed out on a medal. The 4X event is particularly challenging, as riders compete in groups of four in a knockout event over a 400m-long course incorporating jumps, step-ups and other testing features. The two fastest proceed to the next round until the ultimate winner is crowned. "I've heard great things about the course at Fort William," said Reade. "It'll be brilliant fun but a major challenge too. Bring it on!" Story from BBC website Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4512 Freelance Project Co-ordinator wanted for Lochaber Visitor Feedback Scheme Are you a self motivated person, passionate about customer service, with the communication skills to work in confidence with a wide range of businesses? The Lochaber Tourism Forum, which comprises Lochaber’s local marketing groups, HIE and Outdoor Capital of the UK, are recruiting a freelancer to co-ordinate and implement an area wide visitor feedback scheme called ‘Who Cares Wins’. This exciting opportunity is a two year project and will involve liaising with similar schemes running concurrently across the Highlands. For more information go to the Outdoor Capital website and download the Job Description , Application Form and Project Overview. The closing date for applications is 4pm 15th May 2009 Interviews will be held in Fort William the week commencing 25th May 2009 and the successful applicant will be expected to start work as soon as possible. Please email applications to info@outdoorcapital.co.uk or post to Outdoor Capital, Room F5, Lochaber College, Carmichael Way, Fort William PH33 6FF Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4562 Anewwebsite was recently launched which offers a re-ordering of the mountains and hills in the UK, using new principles. On prominentpeaks.org.uk , peaks are classified by both height and prominence, which picks out the most significant peaks regardless of location or landscape. The site was launched by it's creators, Jim Bloomer and Roddy Urquhart, on top of Ben Nevis recently. Jim has also created a new bagger’s list, the Bloomer’s Challenge , whichcontains 158 peaks thoughout the UK with a prominence of 500m or more. An increasing number of mountaineers and hill walkers are prioritising hills by prominence. This phenomenon has had its greatest impact in North America but is now moving to Europe and elsewhere. Many hill lists have less demanding prominence criteria with a stronger focus on height criteria. Bloomer’s Challenge is based on the very demanding prominence criterion of 500 metres. This means that every peak in the challenge will be the major one for a particular area of high ground. Every peak in the list will be topographically distinct from neighbouring members of the list and is therefore likely to be a very good viewpoint. Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4561 For the last four years paddlers have congregated in the North-West of Scotland for the Wet West Paddle Fest. What more could you ask than for two days of fun filled paddling? The weekend starts on the Friday night in the British Aluminium Club, Fort William where you can meet up with fellow boaters and pick up your event passes. Saturday is the River Garry event, which is a fairly easy paddle with good playspots and easy access along its length. It is equally suitable for less experienced boaters as well as the hardened pros. A shuttle service is provided and will be operating from approximately 10am to 4pm on both days of the event. We hope to have food and demo boats available at the take-outs. To finish your first day off with all your new paddling pals, it's back to the British Aluminium Club for some evening fun! Sunday is mainly for those who prefer a steeper challenge, the River Moriston! It is both excellent to paddle and fantastic fun to spectate, with most of the rapids easily accessible for photo opportunities to impress your mates that couldn't make it. The harder parts of the Moriston are the top section (just below the dam) and the final section from the A82 bridge to the end of the gorge. A more moderate grade 3 paddle can be taken on the middle Moriston, between the two sections. Keep an eye on the web site ( www.wetwestpaddlefest.co.uk ) for more information and tickets will be on sale through the SCA website ( www.canoescotland.com ) from June onwards. Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4626 The PowerBar Barmouth to Fort William Three Peaks Yacht Race combines yachting and mountain running (and a little bit of cycling) into one of the greatest adventure challenges in British sport. The race is now in its 33rd year and its sail/run format has been copied in similar races as far away Hong Kong and Tasmania. Teams comprise 3 sailors and 2 runners, and their aim is to sail from Barmouth on the Welsh coast to Fort William in Scotland, via Caernarfon and Whitehaven, climbing to the summits of Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis on the way. (The athletes cycle from Whitehaven into Ennerdale and run up and down Scafell Pike from there.) The first teams home are expected in Fort William next Tueday (23rd June). For live race coverage and further information, visit www.threepeaksyachtrace.co.uk Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4819 The No Fuss Events team were busy again at the weekend with their Endurance Downhill race which took place at Nevis Range on Saturday 1st of August- Check out their video and the results on the No Fuss website-- www.nofussevents.co.uk !!! Wed, 5 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4662 Caledonian Discovery have been busy this week spotting Wildlife aboard their cruise boat! There have been a number of different birds spotted this week including an Osprey sighted on its nest, a raven, a black throated diver as well as a number of other species including an otter seen on the edge of Loch Linnhe by Nick Picozzi, the wildlife guide for the cruise. For more information please feel free to contact Nix Forster on 01397 772167 or email nix@fingal-cruising.co.uk . www.fingal-cruising.co.uk Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4663 With less than 365 days to go until the British round of the 2010 SPEA FIM World Champiionships, which will be held at the fantastic Nevis Range venue just outside Fort William, L+M Events have launched their discounted advance ticket packages which went on sale 25th of June 2009 and can be found at www.ukworldtrial.com . The event is a three day event which will take place on the 25/26/27th of June 2010 which will include two full days of World Championship action and a day of fueled and exclusive activities, official practise and rider autograph sessions. Some accommodation providers in the area have all ready seen bookings for next June, an event not to be missed so purchasing advance tickets for the event and booking accomodation as early as possbleis a must! For more information on the event or to purchase tickets please visit www.ukworldtrial.com . For a list of accommodation providers, please visit our accommodation section. Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5280 Although Scotland’s five mountain ski areas are very focused on their great season and superb snow, their thoughts are also straying across the Atlantic and Canada to Whistler and Vancouver. “With 2 Scottish snowboarders and 2 Scottish Nordic skiers in TeamGB, we’d really like to wish them all the very best of luck from ski-scotland and the ski areas where they first learned their sport,” said Chair of ski-scotland Heather Negus. “Our thoughts are with them, and while they enjoy the Whistler snow and the Games opening ceremony on Friday, we’ll be enjoying great snow conditions for the start of mid term right here in Scotland.” Scotland’s ski areas are enjoying a really successful season, with great snow conditions set to continue throughout mid term. With Olympic fever also about to kick in, some ski areas are suggesting “survival tips” – common sense ideas to make the most of the holidays and the good conditions. These can be easily accessed through the official website www.ski-scotland.com, on individual ski area websites. Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4813 With less than ten months to go until the British round of the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championships, trials legend Martin Lampkin isn't holding back wih prapartions for what is set to be the ' best trial in the world'. A recent press release on the 28th of July 2009 tells how Martin Lampkin the event's co-director hopes to deliver a fantastic weekend with a 'spectacular display of trials riding ever seen on British soil. The event will take place over the 25th,26th ad 27th of June 2010 including two full days of World trials championships and an action packed opening day! Advance tickets are availabe now just by logging onto www.ukworldtrial.com offering massive savings. Further information can also be found on the official SPEA FIM Trial website. Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4873 The Old Forge award winning pub has collaborated with Geoff Allman of Spoken-Image who specialises in creative solutions, a media and image company to produce a unique hand sketched calender of knoydart and Loch Nevis in watercolour pen and inks. The profits from this charity calendar will go to Combat Stress Combat Stress is the only charity specialising in the treatment of Service-related mental illness, and has unique capabilities in the field. Since 1919 Combat Stress has provided a unique lifeline to almost100,000 veterans suffering from chronic conditions such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - incurred or exacerbated in the course of conflict and peace-keeping activities. Jointly sponsored by The Old Forge and Spoken Word The pictures in this calendar are from the collection painted by Geoff Allman over a decade of visits to Knoydart and Loch Nevis. They have been painted from life, mostly outdoors, come rain or shine,using water for his watercolours and inks sourced from the local burns. The calender will be on sale at the end of October making an ideal Christmas stocking filler. Buy online visit www.theoldforge.co.uk or tel 01687 462267. £10 incl P and P within UK. Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4859 A new geology room covering events spanning the billion-year story of Western Ardnamurchan was officially opened this week in the Ardnamurchan Lighthouse exhibition centre. The display is a collaboration between the Lochaber Geopark and the Lighthouse trustees. The main display area is on two levels, one aimed at children whereas the other targets adults. The aim is to encourage visitors to enjoy the exhibition but also to go out and discover the wonderful geology on offer. Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4914 Those interested in the Spea Fim Trial World Championships are now getting their chance to experience the show from the best possible position, alongside the main presenter as their right hand person. Organisers are searching a fresh, enthusiatic individual to experience this once in a lifetime opportunity and work side by side with the main commentator for the duration of the weekend. Those interested are asked to provide a 30 second video clip, off the cuff presentation, direct to the camera. Content of the video clip is not important and can be a clip of you introducing yourself or giving an example of your commentary skills- the only thing they ask is that you 'opt to impress' The winner will be treated to an all expenses paid weekend, with competition package that encompasses travel to and from the event and hotel accommodation. To submit a video, simply email it, together with your name, age, address and contact telephone number to info@ukworldtrial.com . Video clips must be no longer than 30 seconds. For more information on this fantastic opportunity please visit http://www.ukworldtrial.com/news/129.html Thu, 1 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5488 Tension is mounting in Lochaber! On Sunday 16 May 2010 the stunning mountain bike and walking trails of the Nevis Range, near Fort William, will play host to the inaugural Outdoor Capital Trail Half Marathon, Scotland's newest off road half marathon, and 5k Fun Run. 100 trail running beginners and experienced 'mountain goats', will be amongst the first to test themselves on world famous mountain biking trails, used during the legendary World Cup, World Championships and Benromach Ten Under The Ben mountain bike events. The 21.1 kilometre figure of eight loop utilises forestry roads, disused narrow gauge railway line and cycling and walking tracks within Forestry Commission Scotland's Leanachan Forest. It also includes stages of the new Cour Trail that winds its way towards Spean Bridge offering stunning views of the Great Glen, the Grey Corries and Ben Nevis. Chloe Patterson from organisers No Fuss Events, said: 'This is our first trail half marathon event and like our other annual events the emphasis is firmly on fun with a friendly atmosphere for runners of all abilities. Entrants can expect a challenging but manageable course of stunning beauty and a warm welcome at the finish!' The race takes place the day after the No Fuss flagship mountain biking event, Benromach 10 Under The Ben, so the hills really will be alive with the sound of music and mountain bikers who are still keen to run off some energy and keen to take part in an event without the aid of wheels. Chloe Patterson added: 'With over 900 signed up for 10 Under The Ben on Saturday, it is going to be a new and exciting challenge for us to get everything ready for our first running event on Sunday. We are confident that the course will be well received and the field will enjoy some of the best trails with the best views that the Outdoor Capital of the UK has to offer. If you are up for the challenge there is still time to sign up.' Runners can register their £20 race fee online at www.nofussevents.co.uk . Pre race registration will take place between 17:00 and 19:00 on Saturday evening and from 07:00 at the saddlespan at the Nevis Range HQ on the Sunday morning. The Outdoor Capital Trail Half Marathon starts at 12:00. For more info on this and other No Fuss Events please visit www.nofussevents.co.uk Thu, 13 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5535 2010 SPEA FIM TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP AT FORT WILLIAM 25 - 27 JUNE 2010 NEVIS RANGE, FORT WILLIAM, SCOTLAND On 25, 26 and 27 June 2010, the Nevis Range, Fort William, will stage the UK leg of the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship, the thirty-fifth edition of the biggest, the most important and the best motorcycle trial competition series on the international calendar. It is the first time since 1992 that Scotland has hosted a stage of the World Championship series; that will see seven other Grand Prix events being staged in Spain, Portugal, Japan, France, San Marino, Italy and the Czech Republic in 2010. As a major focus for both country and rider sixty of the World's best riders from fifteen countries around the globe will descend on the Scottish Highlands for two days of awesome and hotly contested competition for valuable points towards the 2010 World Pro (male only at Fort William), World Junior (male and female) and World Youth (male and female) titles. Dougie Lampkin (2009 world number 6) who has dominated the modern era of the sport with twelve World Championship titles to his name, will be leading the UK charge and looking for that all important win on home soil. He will be joined by James Dabill (2009 world number 8 and 2005 Junior World Champion) and Michael Brown (2009 world number 9 and 2007 Junior World Champion), both of whom will be keen to put in an impressive performance in front of a home crowd. Top international riders competing to stand on top of the Fort William podium include Toni Bou (current and three times World Champion) and Adam Raga (2009 world number 2 and two times World Champion), both from Spain, together with Takahisa Fujinami (2009 world number 3 and 2004 World Champion) from Japan. Up to 8,000 spectators are expected to attend the biggest and most spectacular display of trials riding ever seen on British soil. The main competition days will be Saturday and Sunday with Friday's timetable offering a mixture of unique and exclusive activities including autograph and meet and greet sessions with the world's top riders, official practice and 'Kickstart - The Return'. Friday will also be a great day to plan the best viewing points ready for the exciting competition over the weekend. As a venue for the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship the Nevis Range is exceptional. It is home to unrivalled natural trials terrain anywhere in the World. It offers both technical and challenging sections to test both man and machine to the full, guaranteeing world class action. The venue also has a rich motorcycle history as host venue for the World-renowned Scottish Six Day Trial making it a Mecca for trials riders and fans alike. This combined with good local accommodation, extensive local amenities and facilities, excellent site infrastructure and a proven track record of hosting other World status events makes Nevis Range the perfect stage for a winning World Championship event. Organisers L+M Events have signed a three-year agreement with the FIM (International Motorcycling Federation), on an exclusive basis, to deliver a round of the SPEA FIM Trial World Championship both in 2010 and 2012, plus the highly prestigious Trial Des Nations team event in 2011, all at Nevis Range, Fort William in the Outdoor Capital of the UK. It is the first time the inter-countries team competition's history that the Trial Des Nations will be hosted on the UK mainland. Tickets for the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship at Nevis Range, Fort William, are now on sale. For full details and for further event information visit the official event website - www.ukworldtrial.com. You can also register to receive regular free updates as preparations for June 2010 start to take shape. The 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship at Nevis Range, Fort William is supported by EventScotland, H Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4965 Following on from the success of the last three writing competitions at the Fort William Mountain Festival, the John Muir Trust is running another competition for aspiring writers. With the broad theme of 'experiences in wild places', your entry could incorporate a journey, a place, an expedition, a mountain or river, a walk, climb, sail or kayak...or whatever wild experience has inspired you! The aim is to celebrate our landscape and wild places by encouraging new and upcoming writers to write about their experiences and share their stories. Deadline: Entries in English or Gaelic must be submitted by 18 January 2010. Only one entry will be considered from each applicant. Word limit: Your piece of writing should not exceed 1200 words. Judges and prizes are to be announced. For more details about the competition download the entry form and terms and conditions now or contact Sarah Lewis at John Muir Trust on 01397 705049. • Download the Open Writing Competition 2010 Entry Form • Download the Open Writing Competition Terms and Conditions • Read the Winning Entries in 2009 Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=4986 To help hill walkers and climbers prepare for winter the MCofS (Mountaineering Council of Scotland) is providing a free Winter Safety programme. The programme includes free Winter Safety Lectures and a range of webpages with comprehensive guidance on mountain safety in winter. In addition to this specific winter programme, the MCofS also funds the Mountain Weather Information Service, which operates throughout the year, but which provides a particularly vital resource for mountaineers in winter. The MCofS Winter Safety programme can be found at: www.mcofs.org.uk/winter-safety.asp The Mountain Weather Information Service can be found at: http://www.mwis.org.uk/ MCofS also urges all mountain users to check the sportscotland Avalanche Information Service (SAIS), which provides daily reports on snow conditions and a forecast for the major climbing areas of Scotland. Their free daily reports are available at: http://www.sais.gov.uk/ from December onwards. For more information, check the MCofS website here Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5175 Nevis Range will celebrate its twentieth anniversary. It reopens for its winter season exactly twenty years after it first opened its doors on 19th of December 1989. Originally operating as a ski resort, the business has grown and diversified since that day. Today it is a major player in the Scottish tourist industry and contributes significantly to the Outdoor Capital of the UK. The mountain gondola, the only one of its kind in Britain, was orginally constructed on the slopes of Aonach Mor as a way to transport skiers to the pistes. However, from day one, the gondola became a highly acclaimed visitor attraction in its own right , attracting around 200,000 visitors annually. To celebrate the great milestone on Saturday 19th of Decmber Nevis Range will not only be offering half price gondola trips (see http://gondola.nevisrange.co.uk/site/gondola/times.asp for details) all day, visitors will also be able to enjoy an exhibition of photos and memorabilia from the company's 20 year history, whilst enjoying a slice of delicious birthday cake- the perfect antidote to the stresses of christmas shopping! For more details on Nevis Range go to http://www.nevisrange.co.uk Fri, 18 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5177 Global stars on the mountain bike circuit are set to descend on Scotland once again for the award-winning Fort William UCI Mountain Bike World Cup, which returns to the Highlands on the 5th and 6th June 2010. Fort William will host the Downhill and 4 Cross (4X) contests at the ninth annual World Cup, attracting top riders from around the world. There will be a strong challenge from UK riders, with the men currently the leading nation on the Downhill World Cup circuit, thanks to World Champion Steve Peat and four other Brits in the top 15 – Gee Atherton (ranked 4th), Brendan Fairclough (ranked 11th), Marc Beaumont (ranked 14th) and Josh Bryceland (ranked 15th). The British Women are ranked second behind France with 4-times Fort William winner Tracy Moseley 3rd overall and Fionn Griffiths 8th in Downhill and 3rd in 4X. Such strength and depth will guarantee another big crowd determined to cheer their heroes on to more World Cup success. Last year’s Fort William Mountain Bike World Cup attracted more than 400 riders from 35 different countries and a record 18,500 spectators. As host to rounds of the World Cup series since 2002, Fort William has established itself as one of the best international mountain bike competition venues in the world regularly winning the Best UCI (International Cycling Union) World Cup Event, IMTTO (International Mountainbike Teams, Technical Support and Organisers) Best Mountain Bike Event in the World and Singletrack Best UK Mountain Bike Event. Tickets will go on sale in spring 2010. Find out more or register for email updates at www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk. Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5178 Scotland’s weather has delivered an early Christmas present for skiers and snowboarders, with four of the country’s five mountain ski areas already operating, and the other expecting to open very soon. And with the snow and cold weather forecast to continue through the rest of the week and over the weekend, there should be plenty of opportunities to work off the excesses of Christmas dinner, cake and mince pies with some healthy skiing or boarding at CairnGorm, Nevis Range, the Lecht or Glenshee. Glencoe is also expected to open over the holiday period; although there is enough snow, the new owners have had to condense six months’ work into a very busy six week period, and a few extra days are still required before they’re ready to welcome skiers and boarders. Heather Negus, Chair of ski-scotland, said, “there has been a fantastic early start to the Scottish ski season this winter – in fact, it’s the best since 1999! CairnGorm has already been operating for a few weeks, and this is the first time since 2003 that Nevis Range has opened for snowsports before Christmas. The forecast is also really promising for some great fun and wicked sliding over the holiday period.” For the first time, the five mountain ski areas are offering an all-area five-day ski pass. These are valid for any five consecutive days at any of the five areas, and can be bought at any of the ticket offices: CairnGorm Mountain, Glencoe Mountain, Glenshee, The Lecht and Nevis Range. The new pass has been produced in response to customer demand, and will allow skiers and boarders to sample each area, stick with one, or follow the best snow and road reports. The pass can be used for five days at one ski area, one day at each ski area – or any combination - the only requirement is that the five days are consecutive. Heather continued, “we’d also like to remind our customers to check road conditions before they leave – remember that some of our mountain ski areas are served by Britain’s highest roads, at well over 2,000ft above sea level. This can easily be checked on the official website www.ski-scotland.com where you can also check on lifts due to open and snow conditions, with webcam images, before you leave home, or on your mobile. And if the roads north are snowbound, there’s also the chance to whet your appetite for mountain skiing or boarding, in the Central Belt of Scotland, at SNO!zone in Glasgow.” Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5266 "In one legendary week on Ben Nevis in 1960 Jimmy Marshall and Robin Smith advanced Scottish winter climbing a full ten years. On consecutive days they climbed six first winter ascents, including the mini Alpine-route Orion Face Direct (V, 5), while also making the second ascent of Point Five Gully (V, 5) for good measure. The fact they achieved all this by cutting steps up the snow and ice appears, from the remove of the 21st century, to be almost unbelievable. Marshall’s skill was such that he could lead routes almost faster than some of his talented seconds could follow." Who's who in British Climbing, Colin Wells Marshall and Smith’s week on the Ben has been talked about and celebrated ever since as among the finest performances ever in British mountaineering; a feat of fitness, skill and commitment that some would argue has never been bettered even with modern gear. To mark the achievement exactly 50 years on, Dave MacLeod and Andy Turner will attempt to repeat the week of climbs, with each ascent being filmed for the festival. Dave and Andy are the modern day Marshall and Smith, pushing climbing standards forward years ahead of anyone else. Despite modern gear this will be an arduous test of fitness. The weather, ice conditions and threat of avalanches will also have a huge impact on the challenge. On Sunday 14th Jimmy Marshall will appear at the Fort Willia Mountain Festival and Dave and Andy will both talk about their experiences during the week and will compare Jimmy’s recollections of cutting hand and footholds with once ice axe on the climbs to their own experiences. We will see the footage from their ascents as well as perspective on Jimmy’s achievement with interviews from Jimmy’s climbing peers and several other well known figures in Scottish mountaineering history over the decades since. Will it be possible to complete the climbs to mark the 50th anniversary? Only one way to find out! It will be a fascinating night of stories and images from Scotland’s finest mountaineers and the climbs on Ben Nevis they pioneered. Book your tickets now on the Mountain Festival website The full list of climbs is - The Great Chimney (IV,5) 6th February 1960 Minus Three Gully (IV,5) 7th February 1960 Smith's Route (V,5) 8th February 1960 Observatory Buttress (V,4) 9th February 1960 Point Five Gully (V,5) 10th February 1960 Piggot's Route (V,6) 12th February 1960 Orion Direct (V,5) 13th February 1960 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5395 Fort William has been awarded £450,000 giving the town centre a facelift. The Lochaber capital was successful in securing funding from Holyrood’s £60million town centre regeneration kitty and other sources. Amajor feature is the commissioning of a bronze sculpture, selected from four options put forward by Fife sculpture David Annand, which will mark the end of the West Highland Way, the trail from Glasgow to Fort William. Thesculpture, called Sore Feet, will show a weary walker gently examining his toes. Read more: http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/1622812?UserKey=#ixzz0gdSiks04 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5418 PASS IT ON- A unique public artwork is being created by and for the people of Fort William to take pride of place in the underpass. Your ideas and designs are needed to complete a series of artworks that reflect the best of what Fort William has to offer- our history and culture, music, sport and the splendour of the local landscape. These will be printed onto panels to be displayed in and around the underpass. Get involved by joining a workshop or by dropping into room 13 Community Studio which has been set up at Lochaber College especially for this project. All ages are welcome. Come along at any of the times listed below to find out more about the project and how you can get involved!! Room 13 Community Studio: Lochaber College, 1st floor (in pratical room) Thursday 11th March, Tuesday 16th March, Thursday 18th March, Tuesday 23rd March, Thursday 25th March from 5.30pm- 8.30pm. Contact Room 13 for more details on 07788740257/ email claire@room13scotland.com Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5405 GAELIC - A WINNER AT SCOTTISH SKI CENTRES? A research project is set to get underway to assess the impact and benefits of bilingual signage at Scotland’s ski centres. The Gaelic and English signs, at the Lecht, Glenshee, Nevis Range and Glencoe ski centres, were installed 12 months ago under a scheme operated by Comunn na Gàidhlig (CnaG), on behalf of Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Now, given the excellent skiing conditions being enjoyed across the country, it is hoped to take advantage of the high visitor numbers to look into their awareness and attitude towards the bilingual signage. CnaG chief executive Donald MacNeill said: “The recent wintery weather and surge in visitors at Scotland’s Ski centres is providing great exposure for the new Gaelic presence at these centres. It’s an ideal opportunity to examine the effectiveness of the bilingual signs among skiers and boarders from the Highlands and afar who are attending the centres; a lot of whom may never have come across signs with Gàidhlig and English before. “The bilingual signage scheme has run successfully for a number of years with some 100 companies having taken advantage of the opportunity, so we already know it’s worthwhile in raising the profile both of Gaelic and the participating company or business. What this new research is about is trying to find out whether the presence of these signs affects the general interest in Gaelic; encourages people to think about Gaelic in a different light; or if visitors are more attracted to places with Gaelic.” Face-to-face interviews will be carried out among visitors to Lochaber’s Nevis Range centre, and in addition an online survey form is available via CnaG’s website (www.cnag.org.uk). All research participants will be entered into a prize draw, with the winner receiving a 5 day all area pass valid at all the Scottish ski centres. The research will close on the 23rd of March and the draw will take place on 29th March. It is hoped the responses will help develop future policies to promote Gaelic and may shape future changes to the bilingual signage scheme. The next phase of the bilingual signage scheme is currently open, with successful applicants able to receive up to £2,000 towards the cost of including Gaelic within signage or promotional and marketing material. Full details of the scheme are also available on the CnaG website. Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5039 Scotland's first official canoe trail is to be created along 62 miles of waterways between Fort William and Inverness The Great Glen Canoe Trail will take paddlers along the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness. British Waterways Scotland estimates that about 2500 enthusiasts already use the canal each year and spend £75,000 locally. Low level pontoons will be put in place at locks and bridges along the route. British Waterways Scotland have been developing the trail in partnership with the Highland Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Forestry Commision Scotland and the Scottish Canoe Association. Subject to funding, the Great Glen Canoe Trail could be completed by early 2012. For more information on this news story visit the bbc website on http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/highlands_and_islands/8318063.stm Wed, 4 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5047 The Scottish Snowsports Marketing Group today welcomed the new owners of Glencoe Mountain as members of the consortium, thought be the longest-standing group of its type in Scotland. Better known to skiers and snowboarders as ski-scotland, the consortium promotes Scottish snowsports on a collaborative basis, even although Scotland’s ski areas are also competitors. “We are absolutely delighted that the sale of Glencoe has gone ahead in time for full winter operation”, said Chair of ski-scotland Heather Negus, “and that Glencoe’s new owners have confirmed so quickly that they wish to work with us right from the start. It is very important to us that the Group includes all five of Scotland’s mountain snowsports areas.” The news also confirms that skiers and boarders who have bought ski-scotland all-area season tickets will be able to use them not only at CairnGorm Mountain, Glenshee, The Lecht and Nevis Range, but also at Glencoe too. Glencoe will also continue to feature alongside the other ski areas on the successful ski-scotland.com website, where snow and road conditions are updated as and when they change each day throughout the winter, and where skiers and boarders can also see real-time conditions through webcams at each ski area. Businessman Andy Meldrum, who heads up the consortium which has bought Glencoe, added, “we are so pleased to have the opportunity to be part of ski-scotland. It makes sense to promote all Scotland’s ski areas together, as combining resources will allow us to market Glencoe more effectively as part of the Scottish snowsports product.” The official re-opening ceremony of Glencoe will take place on Sunday, 8th November, at 11am. The ticket office will also be open from 11am until 2pm for the same of 2009-10 season tickets. Heather Negus continued, “with this week’s cold weather and snow now on the mountain tops, this is a great time to have news like this to share with our loyal skiers and snowboarders.” · The five mountain snowsports areas are: CairnGorm Mountain near Aviemore; Glenshee, on the A93 between Blairgowrie and Braemar; Glencoe Mountain near the A82 north of Tyndrum; The Lecht, on the A939 between Corgarff and Tomintoul, and Nevis Range near Fort William. · Winter 2008-9 attracted many people to the Scottish snowsports areas who have not visited before, or not for a long time. All the areas reported a high number of first-time visitors who normally ski or snowboard abroad – a positive spin-off from the current economic climate. · The number of people who skied or snowboarded in Scotland in winter 2008-9 was 159,885, worth around £4M to the snowsports centres and at least £12M to the Scottish economy. · Full snow and weather reports, with real-time webcam photos, can be seen in season on the official website www.ski-scotland.com Fri, 6 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5477 WHESTRAIL LIMITED ‘THE WEST HIGHLAND REALWAY’ What do you do when faced with a rail service which you feel is not encouraging tourists to use the famous The West Highland Line and in particular does not cater properly for walkers and cyclists ? The answer is quite simply to run your own real train service and that is exactly what Railway & Outdoor enthusiasts Gerald Rivett of Spean Bridge and Hamish Baillie of Larbert have done. Starting in July and running until the end of August a new train will operate from Edinburgh to Fort William each weekend equipped with a specialist vehicle to carry large luggage and up to 100 bikes as well as 8 high quality modern carriages. This will enable outdoor enthusiasts every Saturday to catch the train in the Central Belt of Scotland and get off at such remote places as Rannoch and Corrour for a weekend of enjoyment before travelling back on the Sunday evening. The new company called WhestRail actively encourages customers to buy both single and return tickets from the many stations it will stop at on the West Highland Line. Return travel can be over a period of time and not just restricted to the same weekend. All seats and equipment have to be forward booked online at www.whestrail.co.uk where the customer can browse the colourful and informative website. Postal and telephone bookings are also taken for those not having access to the internet. As a real attraction to tourists of all ages the first and last service is steam hauled from Falkirk to Fort William whereas the other weekends will see the use of a Heritage Diesel locomotive. The weekend diesel hauled service is timed to enable visitors to use The Jacobite steam train to Mallaig in the footsteps of Harry Potter. Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5134 Dougie Lampkin met with Outdoor Capital's, Project Director, Frazer Coupland last week and a number of Outdoor Adventure students from Lochaber College to experience a number of activities and attractions Fort William & Lochaber has to offer including Indoor climbing, kayaking, a fast rib ride, a visit to Ben Nevis Distillery and a relaxing evening in the Clachaig Inn. For the full news story visit: http://www.ukworldtrial.com/ . Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5133 Outdoor Capital member, The Granite House, is currently celebrating it's most successful year for a long time. The 2 High Street stores, The Granite House and Toymaster have had a great summer season and the company's website WWW.GIFTMONGER.COM continues to grow rapidly. As an introduction to the website we are offering all Outdoor Capital members and their friends a special discount. Just shop online and enter the code "FRIEND10" at the checkout for your exclusive special price. The Granite House has been fort William's favourite gift shop since 1977 for both visitors and locals alike, and has supported the Outdoor Capital initiative right from the start. The Granite House WWW.GIFTMONGER.COM 74 High Street World famous award Fort William Winner now online. Scotland 01397703651 PH33 6AD Tue, 1 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5145 With snow accumulating in Scotland’s hills and mountains, skiers and snowboarders’ thoughts are beginning to turn to snowsports. Indeed one ski area is already operating, and others are ready to run as soon as there is sufficient snow cover. Of course, everyone is also thinking of Christmas, whether there will be a “white Christmas” and – inevitably – planning their Christmas shopping! New for 2009/20 from Scotland’s five mountain ski areas, and ideal as a Christmas stocking filler, is the all-area five-day ski pass. This new product is the result of demand from skiers, shown through ski-scotland’s extensive customer research. The passes are valid for any five consecutive days at any of the five areas: CairnGorm Mountain, Glencoe Mountain, Glenshee, The Lecht and Nevis Range. Chair of ski-scotland, Heather Negus explained, “these new passes offer what must be the best-value five days of skiing in Europe! The pass can start on any day of the owner’s choosing, at any of our ski areas. You can use it for five days at one ski area, one day at each ski area – or any combination. The only requirement is that the five days are consecutive.” The passes are now on sale, price £115, in person from any of the ski areas. From now until 22nd December they are also available by phone from Nevis Range (01397 705825), and they will also shortly be available online through www.ski-scotland.com, again until 22nd December. If buying by phone or online, Heather advises allowing sufficient time for the ticket to be sent by first class post and added, “if you’re buying in person, it’s best to check opening times with your nearest ski area – while Cairngorm and Nevis Range ticket offices are currently open 7 days, until they become operational, the other ski areas are not. At the moment, Glencoe and Glenshee are only open 9-5 Monday to Friday, while The Lecht is open weekends and the end of the week but closed Mondays & Tuesdays.” More information: Elma McMenemy (01569) 750700 elma@tourism.force9.co.uk Nevis Range: Marian Austin (01397) 705825 info@nevisrange.co.uk CairnGorm Mountain: Colin Kirkwood/Tania Alliod 01479 861326/861304 ckirkwood@cairngormmountain.org tania@cairngormmountain.org Sun, 6 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5189 Snow has hit the headlines all over Britain, not least in the Scottish Highlands, where the white stuff is giving the five mountain ski areas their best start to the season for a decade. CairnGorm Mountain’s thigh-deep powder offers “better skiing than Utah!” according to ski patroller Colin Matthew. Although The Lecht’s powder is “only” knee-deep, Lecht Managing Director, Pieter du Pon said “because the temperature’s not risen above freezing since before Christmas, it’s really staying nice and fluffy.” The other ski areas too have the best early-season snow for a decade, and Glenshee, which has welcomed over 12,000 skiers and boarders since Christmas Eve, now has all three valleys and four mountains open. Across on the west side of Scotland, good early snow is relatively unusual, but both Glencoe Mountain and Nevis Range report an excellent start to the season, with good snow on the upper parts of their mountains. Chair of ski-scotland, Heather Negus said, “this is a brilliant start to what we hope will be a great season for Scottish snowsports, and skiers and boarders can see for themselves how good the snow is through realtime webcams and panoramas on www.ski-scotland.com. There have been some lovely stories too, like people staying in campervans in CairnGorm’s carpark overnight to be first on the powder in the morning, and families who drove all the way to the Highlands from Gatwick after their ski flight to Bulgaria was cancelled. The last I heard, they were having a magic time on the slopes at CairnGorm.” It’s not only the ski areas themselves which are benefitting from the good snow; the surrounding villages are also doing good business. Statistics show that for each £1 spent at a ski area, around £4 is spent in the neighbourhood, whether it is on accommodation, food and drink or fuel for the car, which means that snowsports and good snow are great news for the local economy. “Once the school holidays end, everything will be much quieter, with few queues and spaces in the car parks. And of course mid-week is normally even quieter – that’s the best time to come if you can,” continued Heather. Wed, 6 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5254 The recent freezing temperature have presented some opportunities not seen for many a year, including the chance to climb Steall Falls in Glen Nevis. Mike Pescod of Abacus Mountaineering , showed Julyan Temple, of STV's 'The Hour', the ropes last week and helped him overcome his fear of heights. If you missed the show, you can still catch it here. Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5268 More than 100,000 skiers and snowboarders have been beating the January blues by enjoying the best snow Scotland has seen for decades – and the good news is that the exceptional snow conditions are due to continue into February. Scotland’s five mountain ski areas have already sold more than 107,500 tickets, not including all the season ticket holders who have been visiting regularly, and some school and other groups. These are counted separately by some ski areas and are usually only included in the final total number of “skier days” at the end of the season. This equates to 67% of last winter’s skier days total, including season ticket holders and groups, and the five ski areas are delighted that so many people are enjoying healthy fun on the slopes. However, these great early season results do have their down-side – there was a plan to offer this winter’s 100,000th skier a free ticket and other goodies, but this had to be abandoned when it was realised that target had already been passed! “We often find that, when the snow thaws elsewhere in the country, people find it hard to believe that the mountains still have good snow,” said ski-scotland Chair Heather Negus. “But this year, with the high-profile story of CairnGorm’s road, funicular and lifts having to be dug out of deep drifts, we’re finding that people know we still have great snow which will last well into next month, and possibly longer. However, each of the five ski areas has their own separate access, so we’ve rarely had a day this year when all five have been closed at one time, and road and snow reports and real-time webcams are easy to find on the official ski-scotland.com website.” “The new ski-scotland all-area 5-day pass has been a real bonus,” continued Heather. “It offers skiers a real alternative to overseas ski holidays. With five ski areas fairly close to each other, and a great choice of accommodation available within reach of all, the 5-day all-area pass means they can try a different ski area every day, just stick with their favourite, or go where the snow and access is best. With the adult ticket only £115 for five consecutive days, it offers tremendous value compared to what you’d pay in the Alps for anything similar.” Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5391 The Underpass is overlooked but not for much longer - Pass it on! Room 13 has been awarded the job of leading an ambitious new community art project to produce a series of new artworks for the underpass, which is undergoing development as part of a broad regeneration scheme for the town. Fort William is the gateway to the Highlands and the underpass is the gateway to the town. Visitors arriving by train or bus and heading for the High Street have to pass through it, and for those of us who live in Fort William, many journeys around town begin or end with a walk through the underpass. This is not a pleasant experience. Right now, the underpass is in a sorry state. The gateway to our town is ugly, uninspiring - even embarrassing. This is about to change. Pass it On - a unique piece of public artwork by and for the people of Fort William will take pride of place in the underpass. In a series of workshops and open studio sessions, embracing all sections of the community, Room 13 will be inviting all users of the underpass to become involved in complete a series of artworks that reflect the best of what Fort William has to offer - our history and culture, music, sport and the splendour of the local landscape. Among it all, will be the stories and images of our town that we would want to pass on visitors and future generations. These will be printed onto panels to be displayed in and around the underpass. Claire Gibb, Room 13 Artist-in -Residence leading the project says: “We see this project as an opportunity to transform the underpass into a space that everyone can be proud of. In its current state, the underpass is ugly and uninspiring and the majority of people we have spoken to, both young and old, agree that this is one reason why it is so badly vandalised! A fresh new look for the underpass will speak for itself, especially if we really work hard to involve everyone in its creation. Already there is a great deal of enthusiasm for this project among the people of the town and some very exciting creative ideas coming forth.” “We set up a facebook page to gather support and as a means of promoting the various ways that people can get involved – last weekend the site had so many visitors that the technology was overwhelmed and people were struggling to gain access!” Look out for details of community workshop sessions taking place in and around the town or by drop into an Open Studio session at Lochaber College from 11th March, or contact Room 13 for more details about how you can get involved. Tel: 07788740257 E-mail: claire@room13scotland.com Room 13 was set up in 1994 as an art studio run by a group of students in Caol Primary School. Now, with an established network of art, music & multimedia studios in schools, colleges and community centres across the world, Room 13 is emerging as a multi-faceted creative organisation with an international reputation and an exciting future. Room 13 International is now a Ltd company within the UK Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5414 Scotland’s five mountain ski areas have been blessed not only by lots of snow this winter, but also more customers than any winter since 2001. Already they have passed 250,000 skier days and this is around two months before the season is expected to end. This is excellent news not only for the ski companies, but also for the surrounding areas, with the season so far estimated to have generated at least £25M for the Scottish economy, of which £20M will have been spent in nearby local businesses. The pattern of business is also different this year, with a higher proportion of high-spending holiday visitors, as opposed to day visitors. Some areas report peak time accommodation bookings 500% higher than in previous seasons and tales of people even cancelling ski holidays abroad to take advantage of Scotland’s wonderful deep snow cover, no money exchange worries, and friendly native English-speakers. With the wind predominantly from the north east, snowfall has consistently loaded the east faces of the mountains, giving new pistes to ski and snowboard at all areas. Some of these runs have as yet not been named. At both Glencoe and Nevis Range, skiers and boarders have enjoyed sliding from the top lifts back to the lowest access points, which is pretty unusual. Nevis Range Managing Director and ski-scotland member, Marian Austin, commented, “unlike the ski areas in the east, we do not normally ski to our carpark, but this amazing snow cover, even at low level, has allowed us to offer skiing from 1,190m (3,900ft) down to 100m (330ft), which is about 4.5km, or close to 3 miles. As with Glencoe, the runs to the carpark are not pisted and are for experienced back country sliders – but what runs! With skiers well spread out across the mountain, our worst lift queues last weekend were around 30 people – so we’ve lots of space for more skiers and boarders!” Although other parts of the country are now beginning to look towards spring, in the Highlands there is more snow forecast, and the expectation is that there will still be excellent skiing and boarding at Easter, throughout April and even into May. People who want to beat the Easter rush are recommended to find accommodation on the official website www.ski-scotland.com, where they can also check out conditions on real time webcams and ski area panorama. “The snow this year has been fantastic with constant cold and great skiing conditions,” added Pieter du Pon of the Lecht Ski Company. “Snow has just piled up week after week since before Christmas, with another metre falling in 36 hours last week. Now is the time try something different and make use of the Ski Scotland 5-day pass to try out all the ski centres, all with great conditions.” Fri, 5 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5429 Marie Campbell has published two small novels and about to publish her third novel, her first book is now being looked at by a highland film producers to turn into a short film in the near future, which is very exciting for the Lochaber area. There will be an Easter signing on Thursday 8th April 2010 inside the Ballachulish Information Centre from 2pm til 4pm, everyone is very welcome! Marie Campbell was born in Ballachulish, Argyllshire in 1934. When she was divorced after 25 years of marriage, and after her five children grew up and married, she worked in hotels; she had a snack van in Glencoe, selling hamburgers, then worked at Sullen Voe in the Shetlands at the oil terminal. She returned to school at 40, obtaining English O-level with General Studies. She now travels over Europe; having recently visited Egypt and Kenya. Apart from gardening, her big love is writing. TANSY is her second historical novel. The Crows are Crying- Synopsis Bridget Ryan with her young sister Elizabeth heard the cries of their mother dying in childbirth. Their broken-hearted father, unable to cope with them, sent them to a Convent to be raised by Nuns. There Bridget's life was made difficult as a result of the severe disciple imposed by one of the nuns. Eventually the sisters were fostered out to the Island of Fada in the Hebrides. When they became teenagers, Elizabeth went with a family to America and Bridget went to find work in the mainland. Young and innocent, she had many trials. This is a heart-warming story that conjures up the magic of a Hebridean island in a bygone age at the turn of the century, and follows the heroine's adventures and trials on the mainland, in Glasgow and a farm, before returning to the island where her destiny unfolds in a surprise ending. Tansy- Synopsis `Dr Brown called a meeting. "I would like some volunteers to go into the woods with me. We would of course have to take all sorts of precautions. We will cover ourselves with masks and gloves and some old clothes. We will leave a change of clothes at the edge of the woods and throw away the old ones so that we won't bring the plague back to the village."' While this novel recreates the terrifying times of the plague and the great fire of London, the chief interest centres around the affectionate, vulnerable yet resourceful young woman, Tansy, who brings alive the past era with disarming humanity. The fair-haired, blue-eyed heiress, cheated out of her inheritance, nevertheless wins the hearts of the common people and the heir of a Scottish estate. Thu, 18 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5428 Nevis Range has high ropes for its new visitor attraction Nevis Range is planning to take its visitors to new heights with the introduction of a series of high ropes courses at the foot of the mountain gondola. Nevis Range, near Fort William, is to build a series of high ropes courses at the foot of the UK’s only mountain gondola. The Family and the Forest courses will cater for all ages from the very young to the very old, and for all abilities, from the complete novice to the more adventurous. The Family course to be built in a corner of the existing car park will have 2 levels, one at approximately 1m off the ground, and the higher, about 4m off the ground. Features at each level will include swing tyres, postman’s walk (a high rope), an Indiana bridge (horizontal rope ladder) and a zip wire. The Forest course will be built in the Leanachan Forest, some 10m high into the existing spruce trees, some of which are over 100ft tall and 50 years old. This course will be geared towards more adventurous individuals and will feature swinging platforms, a balance beam and a sliding trapeze, and will end with a 100m zip wire finishing close to the Family course. The courses will be constructed by Rope Course Construction and Inside Out Scotland and will be verified by European Ropes Courses Association (ERCA), the organisation responsible for formulating safety standards for ropes courses. The courses will also be graded from easy to difficult using the easily recognisable green, blue, red and black grading system. £77k of funding has been received from Highlands and Islands Enterprise towards the estimated £250k project. Marian Austin, MD of Nevis Range, said: ‘This new ropes activity is an integral part of our plan to grow and diversify the business. Since opening in 1989 as a ski area and all year round visitor attraction, we have diversified into mountain biking, which led to us becoming the venue for a round of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup. And the success of the World Cup has resulted in the Motorcycle Trial World Championships coming in June this year. Last year we also launched the Nevis Bike School and built a new red graded mountain bike cross country trail, the only one in the UK accessed by gondola. “The ropes course has been in planning for several years now and its taken us all that time to secure the funding, planning and leases, as well as carry out the research and feasibility studies needed before we could start.” She concluded, “As a business we cannot stand still, we’ve got to keep listening to our customers, and innovate and diversify. As a business located in the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’ we are continually working to provide outstanding outdoor experiences for our visitors.” Heather Negus, Marketing Manager, added, “each year, about 200,000 visitors visit Nevis Range, and these include skiers and snowboarders, mountain bikers and groups of families and friends. The new high ropes courses will appeal to a large number of these existing customers seeking a bit of adventure and also help us attract new customers to Nevis Range as well as to Fort William.” Alison Gainsford, Head of Business Growth for HIE's Fort William Area Office, commented: "Highlands and Islands Enterprise has firmly supported Nevis Range's aims to develop and grow for many years and the new Ropes Course is a welcome addition to what is already a world class attraction. Nevis Range has proved that Lochaber has a huge amount to offer the outdoor enthusiast and we are delighted to be able to help fund a new activity that will both attract additional visitors to the area as well as serve the local community even better.& Wed, 17 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5432 THE JOY OF SIX The ultimate test of man and machine returns to Fort William for the world's oldest motorbike trial event Just a year away from celebrating its centenary, the World famous Scottish Six Days Trial (SSDT) is set to return to the Highland town of Fort William from the 3 to 8 May 2010. 275 motorcycle trial riders from across the UK and around the globe will descend on Fort William and Lochaber - the Outdoor Capital of the UK - for what is arguably the oldest and the greatest motorcycle trial competition in the world. Riders from as far afield as Canada and Australia will make the pilgrimage for the chance to tackle the unique and challenging Scottish terrain alongside local riders who relish the opportunity to take on the world's best on their home turf. What's involved in motorbike trials? The sport of motorcycle trials is a test of riding skill over observed sections. When competitors ride the sections their feet must remain on the footrests of the motorcycle. They must negotiate steep gullies, slippery rock steps, rocky streams or boulder-strewn gorges. Sections vary in length and severity, and riders are penalised if they put their feet down to help them ride the section, and more so if they fail to negotiate the section in its entirety. What makes the Scottish Six Days Trial so special? The Scottish Six Days Trial has the additional test of reliability over long distances, with riders completing up to 100 miles each day over a combination of rough moorland, rocky tracks and public roads. Each daily route is designed by the Clerk of the Course to challenge the ability, experience, strength and stamina of each rider. To ride 100 miles and negotiate 30 sections each day for six consecutive days requires strength, expertise and exceptional reliability from both rider and machine. For trial riders the Scottish Six Days Trial has the same status as the Isle of Man TT has to road racers. Who are the stars of the sport to look out for? Over the last century many thousands of riders have made the famous pilgrimage to the enthralling and unmatched landscape that surrounds Fort William, but only the select few have the honour of having had their name etched on the famous winners' trophy. Of those few all eyes will be on current holder and twelve times FIM Trial World Champion Dougie Lampkin. Dougie will return to defend his SSDT title having narrowly defeated Alexz Wigg by just a single point in last year's competition. Dougie is a five times winner of this event but knows Wigg will come back stronger than ever this year, as will 2007 winner James Dabill. Another world championship contender Albert Cabestany from Spain also intends to make his mark on Scottish soil ahead of the FIM SPEA Trial World Championship at Nevis Range in June. How about the classic bikes we know and love? The early history of SSDT runs alongside the history of the motorcycle in general. In the early 1900s early bikes such as Triumph, Matchless, Ariel and Douglas were primitive, and the original SSDT was mainly a test of reliability. Some of these bikes can still be seen in action in the Pre-'65. The Pre-'65 is a two-day trial event for machines manufactured before 1965 taking place on the Friday and Saturday immediately before the SSDT (1 - 2 May). It is centred around Kinlochleven and includes many sections which were used in the SSDT during the 1960's. The event has proved to be the most important Pre'65 trial in the UK, and as with the SSDT, entries for the trial are massively oversubscribed each year. The trial is hugely popular with spectators and competitors alike, and for many enthusiasts it is the highlight of their year. Where can I find out more? Check out www.ssdt.org for event updates and details of where best to watch the Trials. 2010 is also the year that the Nevis Ran Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5435 Lochaber Showstoppers are busy cooking up their new production “The Baker’s Wife”. Director Sheena Coull is certain audiences will love this new show. “It may not be a well known musical amongst local audiences, but once people experience its humour and warmth, they are certain to love it as much as we do. The Baker’s Wife is a tale of a community in turmoil. The folks in this town have some big problems in the "love thy neighbour" department, and they need a crisis to bring them together.” The story focuses on Aimable, a shy, sweet-natured middle-aged baker, who is hired by a small village in Provence to take over for the recently deceased bread maker. He brings with him his pretty young wife, Genevieve. The baker’s wife soon runs off with a sexy chauffeur, her despairing husband refuses to bake, and suddenly the villagers find themselves breadless. Showstoppers had their own crisis when it came to reviving their outdated website. A new local business came to their aid and offered to build them a brand new, all-singing, all-dancing website, as a form of sponsorship. “The time and effort that these individuals regularly commit to entertaining us and making our small corner of the country that bit more colourful and unique should be an inspiration to us all,” said Billy Lamont, creative director at lamontdesign. Clare Brewer, Showstoppers communications officer is delighted with this new partnership. “We can’t believe how lucky we are that lamontdesign is supporting us in this huge way. They’re creating our brand new website and all of our promotional materials. Billy has given valuable advice on using social media sites like Facebook and Twitter as useful ways of attracting new audiences. As a volunteer run community group we would never have had the budget to use someone with Billy’s skill and experience. Not to mention his patience - we theatrical types are known to be demanding, but he takes our challenging ways in his stride.” Lamontdesign is just one of many local businesses that support Showstoppers. Similar support is what will needed back on stage for the bickering French villagers to rescue their bread supply. But will they overcome their petty & quarrelsome tendencies? Lochaber Showstoppers presents “The Baker’s Wife” at the Nevis Centre on Thursday 25th, Friday 26th and Saturday 27th March 2010 at 7:30pm. Tickets are £8 Adults and £6 concession available from the Nevis Centre box office on 01397 700707. Mon, 22 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5442 NO FUSS EVENTS 2010 - http://www.nofussevents.co.uk THE SCOTTISH HILLS ARE ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF A NEW HALF MARATHON! Scotland's newest off road run to set the heather alight in Lochaber For all levels of Evolution! The stunning trails of the Nevis Range near Fort William will play host to Scotland's newest half marathon on Sunday 16 May 2010. The Outdoor Capital Trail Half Marathon and 5k Fun Run are ideal for both trail running beginners or experienced 'mountain goats' keen to take in the stunning sights of the Great Glen, the Grey Corries and Ben Nevis, as the route winds through the iconic Leanachan Forest. Organised by outdoor events experts No Fuss Events, this unique running experience will be the first chance trail runners will have to test themselves on world famous mountain biking trails used during the Mountain Bike World Cup, World Championships and the Benromach Ten Under The Ben. The race course will consist off a figure of eight loop utilising forestry roads and cycling and walking tracks around the Nevis Range complex, including sections of the world famous Witch's Trail and a disused narrow gauge railway track. Starting from Nevis Range the 21.1 kilometre course will be run on stages of the new Cour Trail that winds its way towards Spean Bridge offering stunning views of the Grey Corries and the Great Glen throughout. Chloe Patterson of No Fuss Events is thrilled to be able to make such a unique event happen saying: 'This is our first trail half marathon event and it's a pleasure to introduce runners to the world of No Fuss style events. The emphasis is on a fun with friendly atmosphere for runners of all abilities. The Nevis Range is a setting we know better than anyone so entrants can expect a challenging course of stunning beauty and a warm welcome at the finish!'. The race takes place the day after the No Fuss flagship mountain biking event, Benromach 10 Under The Ben, so the hills really will be alive with the sound of music and mountain bikers who are still keen to run off some energy and keen to take part in an event without the aid of wheels. Runners can register their £20 race fee online at www.nofussevents.co.uk . Pre race registration will take place between 17:00 and 19:00 on Saturday evening and from 07:00 at the saddlespan in the Nevis Range HQ on the Sunday morning. The Outdoor Capital Trail Half Marathon starts at 12:00. For more info on this and other No Fuss Events please visit www.nofussevents.co.uk Tue, 30 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5511 Whilst the memories and images of this year's stunning Scottish Six Days Trial (SSDT) remain vivid in the minds of riders, fans, sponsors and the media alike, the organisers have already begun planning for 2011. Next May will be a special moment in the rich history of the Edinburgh and District Motor Club as they deliver the centenary edition of what remains the most famous trial in the World. Reflecting on this year's SSDT, Clerk of the Course Mark Whitham stated. 'Thank God it's over! Seriously though, it was a cracking week with a nail-biting finish. The first Scottish I watched was in 1979 where victory was decided on the last sections on the Ben, so with three riders tied going into the last day it took me back thirty years.' Looking ahead to 2011 Whitham commented. 'Why change what isn't broken? The trial itself will be based on the tried and tested format, with no great changes to routes or section groups, although we may add in a few historic hills for some added interest. The main thrust will be to the après-trial - our extra efforts will be focused on making the event something special for spectators and followers, whilst obviously not forgetting the riders.' This year's event has certainly set high standards for the celebrations to follow on from, with the 2010 trial being an absolute success on many different levels. With a kind week of weather the Scottish Highlands once again reminded the competitors and their followers - both present and virtual - from all over the World why Fort William and its unrivalled surrounding landscape remains the real home of trials. The well drilled organising team continue to provide the impossible by creating a wonderful sporting week for the many clubmen riders, whilst still challenging the elite and professional athletes who headed the two hundred and seventy strong field over the six testing days. The club fully understands, that depending on the expectations of the individuals, the smile and satisfaction at the end of the week just for finishing is equally as important as collecting the trophy and the winners' champagne. Earlier this week the SSDT committee met to evaluate the 2010 trial and to debrief in order to deliver the best event possible come next May. A new sub committee will be responsible for the early planning and preparations following directly on from the huge success of the recent event, and to allow for the additional work with the extra activities that will be associated with the one hundred year celebrations. Coverage of the 2010 SSDT will feature on the 'World Sport' TV programme this coming Saturday 22nd May - This can be viewed on Channel 4 at 7.30am or Sky Sports 4 at 8.30 am (UK Times). This programme will then be repeated several times on a number of different channels over the coming week - please refer to TV listings for full details. For more information on the Scottish Six Days Trial please visit - www.ssdt.org Thu, 20 May 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5530 WORLD CUP STARS ARRIVE IN SCOTLAND AHEAD OF FORT WILLIAM KICK OFF The world’s top mountain biking stars are arriving in Scotland, kicking off the countdown to the UCI Fort William Mountain Bike World Cup 2010, which is expected to attract tens of thousands of spectators to the Highlands this coming weekend. Around 300 professional riders are due to descend on Fort William for the multi award-winning event this coming weekend (5/6th June) where preparations are underway for an adrenaline-packed weekend of world-class Downhill and 4-Cross action on the scenic slopes of Aonach Mor. South African Greg Minnaar, who is leading the World Cup series this year, was among the first to arrive in Scotland. Minnaar is no stranger to success at Fort William with three Downhill champion titles under his belt. He also holds the record for the course of 4 minutes 38 seconds. British talent will be battling it out against the international stars with Sheffield born Steve Peat, family outfit Gee, Dan and Rachel Atherton and Scots downhillers Ruaridh Cunningham and Ben Cathro all aiming to secure podium places in front of the home crowds. Mike Jardine, of World Cup organisers Rare Management, said: “The excitement is really building ahead of this year’s event as the stars of the sport arrive back in Scotland for what’s going to be a big weekend of mountain biking action. Here on-site, the final preparations are being made to the course and the World Cup village. We can’t wait to get going.” In between the sporting action, this year’s event features a host of other activities in and around the World Cup Village, including the Saracen MBUK Dirt Jump Air Bag, where spectators can pull stunts in a safe environment, and, in keeping with this year’s Downhill Rock & Roll theme, live music from Dirty Modern Hero - an Edinburgh band who won the chance to play in front of the Fort William crowd. Last year’s event attracted 18,500 spectators, generated £2.5 million for the local economy and was attended by nearly 200 media from around the world. Paul Bush OBE, Chief Operating Officer of national events agency EventScotland said: “Fort William is the perfect stage for the annual UCI Mountain Bike World Cup. EventScotland has supported the event since 2003, helping it grow into the multi-award winning stage that it is today. Riders and fans love the courses and the action; this year’s event will be another highpoint for this sport which continues to attract new audiences.” Councillor Sandy Park, Convener of The Highland Council, welcomed the return of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup to Fort William. He said: “We are delighted to support the best mountain bike event in the world, which not only provides a huge economic benefit to our local economy and tourism industry but is also inspiring many young Highland cyclists to take up the challenging and rewarding sport of mountain biking. Recent participation in Highland schools mountain bike races has shown that we may have a few race stars of tomorrow in the making.” Thu, 3 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5520 Although Scotland’s ski season is not yet officially over, with CairnGorm Mountain expecting to operate at weekends in June, ski-scotland is already evaluating the benefit of what has been a phenomenal season. Since the season started in late November, Scotland’s five mountain ski areas have had 373,782 customers (known as “skier days”), the best result since winter 1995-96. The previous best over the last 15 years was season 2000-01 with over 366,000 skier days, and it is only recently that ski-scotland has realised this figure has been beaten. “All winter, we realised we were heading for a great season,” said Chair of ski-scotland Heather Negus. “We had hoped to match the figure for 2001, but didn’t realise we had beaten it until recently, when everything was added up – and of course, CairnGorm Mountain is still operating, so we’re still counting!” The ski season is estimated to have generated at least £37.5M for the Scottish economy, at a time of year when tourism businesses are generally quiet. This great result is not only good news for the ski companies; research shows that for each £1 spent “on the hill” at a ski area, a further £3 is spent off the hill. Therefore over £28M has been spent this winter by skiers in local accommodation, cafés, bars, restaurants, shops and filling stations. “All the ski areas have been delighted to see other local businesses thriving this winter,” continued Heather. “Everything really came together for us – we had lots and lots of superb snow, which kept on coming, some truly amazing overhead weather giving ‘bluebird’ conditions, and, because there was also snow elsewhere in the UK, people realised that the Scottish Highlands did have skiing and snowboarding to rival the best and they came here to enjoy it.” Of course, there will be also skiing and snowboarding available on real snow all summer, autumn, and indeed all year round at SNO!zone at Braehead, Glasgow, with special offers available to loyal ski-scotland customers who subscribe to the online snow alert. Tue, 1 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5536 We are delighted to bring you details of the forthcoming Dougie Lampkin trials school, which is suitable for all ages and abilities. Multi-World champion Dougie Lampkin will be joined by members of his World championship team plus World Pro rider James Dabill to offer literally the best trials tuition on the planet. Obviously due to his hectic competition schedule and promotional duties, the opportunity for Dougie to be available for public training days is very limited, making this school too rare a chance to be missed. The schools will take place on Friday 6th, Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th August 2010 at a venue (to be confirmed) near to Silsden, West Yorkshire, which will cater for all ability levels. A maximum of twenty riders will be accepted each day, these will be split into smaller groups according to ability and will receive personal instruction from Dougie and his team. They will work through a structured programme to make sure each rider reaps the full benefit of their minimum four hours actual on the bike training. In addition to this, advice will be given on bike maintenance, competition strategy and physical training (in the comfort of our mobile classroom), not to mention a demonstration by Dougie to round the day off, making it the ultimate trials experience. Each day will be a separate school, although pupils have the option of booking the following day if they wish to return to learn more advanced skills (strictly limited to a maximum of two days per rider). With this currently being Dougie’s only scheduled open school this season, demand for the places on offer is sure to be extremely high. To avoid disappointment we recommend making an immediate booking to guarantee your place at Master Class 2010. All major credit cards are accepted. Book online at www.g2fshop.com or by calling 0161 763 6660 Price: £149.95 per rider per day. This includes insurance and souvenir award. For further information please call 0161 763 6660 or email info@g2fmedia.com Make sure you book immediately, as for the last ten years this event has been a complete sell out. Mon, 14 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5533 2010 SPEA FIM TRIAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP AT FORT WILLIAM 25 - 27 JUNE 2010 NEVIS RANGE, FORT WILLIAM, SCOTLAND www.ukworldtrial.com Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/UK-World-Trial/346153708781 Twitter - http://twitter.com/ukworldtrial MOTORCYCLE TRIAL WORLD CHAMPION, TONI BOU, READY TO TAKE ON SCOTLAND Spain's Toni Bou heads to Fort William for tough trials clash in June As the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship heads for Japan this weekend twenty-three year old trials maestro Toni Bou (Spain) is focused on a top podium spot in his campaign to retain the World Championship title. However, the young in form Spanish rider who has been unstoppable in recent years, winning seven World crowns since 2006, has a keen eye on the serious challenge to his 2010 campaign; The SPEA FIM Trial World Championship at Fort William, being staged at Nevis Range from 25 to 27 June. With the championship having last visited Scotland back in 1992, many of the new crop of top riders, Bou included, have never had to face the rugged and challenging terrain of the Scottish Highlands and what remains the Mecca of trials globally. Toni Bou recently talked about his excitement at finally having the chance to visit Scotland and the spiritual home of trials: 'I have never been to Scotland before so I am really looking forward to this competition. Ever since I was young I have known about Fort William because of the Scottish Six Days Trial. It is a special place for all trials riders including me.' 'I have some idea of what to expect as I have followed the 'Scottish' [Six Days Trial] for many years. It will be a different type of trial, but one I am looking forward to. The conditions will be difficult as I am not used to slippery sections. However I have trained and prepared for this event as I really want to win in Scotland this year.' 'The British spectators are always fantastic, as they really know the sport well. I know that perhaps they will want a British winner but also I know that they always give me good support.' One man that will be hoping to spoil Bou's plans is 12 times World Champion and British trials legend Dougie Lampkin who will be leading the UK charge; determined to get that all important win on Scottish soil in front of his loyal home supporters; and his 100th World Championship career win. Dougie Lampkin said: 'Nevis Range is now my big focus, after the disappointment of losing out at the Scottish Six Days Trial due to an electrical problem, I am now looking to return to the Highlands to make amends. The natural type of sections really suit my riding style, and in the back of my mind I know that this is a big opportunity for me to secure my 100th GP win.' 'I know the crowd will be really be behind me and I will be going all out to reward their long and loyal support. To achieve my this landmark victory on home soil would truly be a dream come true.' Lampkin does have an advantage of sorts. He comes from a family of trial-hardened Yorkshiremen whose illustrious surname is synonymous with the sport and the Scottish Six Days Trial (SSDT). This is down to a rich and celebrated history, borne from generations of success in their homeland (and around the World), including numerous victories at the SSDT, the World renowned trials event of skill and endurance that has been staged annually in the Fort William and Lochaber area since 1909. On 25, 26 and 27 June 2010, the Nevis Range, Fort William, will stage the UK leg of the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship, the biggest, the most important and the best motorcycle trial competition series on the international calendar. It is the first time since 1992 that Scotland has hosted a stage of the World Championship series; tha Thu, 10 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5593 FUJINAMI (JPN) WINS ON DAY TWO OF BRITISH TRIALS GRAND PRIX The second day of competition at the UK leg of the 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship at Nevis Range, Fort WilliaM, saw Takahisa Fujinami (JPN) take a well deserved win after a demonstrative ride. He was followed home by Albert Cabestany , the Spaniard celebrating his birthday this weekend, with 2009 World Champion Toni Bou (SPA) coming in third. After a day of bright sunshine and warm temperatures on the first day, Sunday soon became wet, with rain falling at the mid-point of the first lap as the riders approached the exposed higher sections. It returned much heavier as the competition came to a close, with the last two already challenging sections, held in front of the crowds and the finish podium, becoming extremely slippery. Despite running as first rider thanks to his win yesterday, Bou took the early advantage, even with a five on the fourth hazard of the first lap. He dropped seven more dabs through the course of lap one to hold a one-mark advantage over Cabestany by the mid-point. Fujinami was third after the first lap, picking up a five early on as he went over time on section six. However, it was Fujinami who made the running on the second lap despite the rain. Bou made several mistakes, picking up three fives on his way back to the finish amid the tricky conditions. Fujinami, on the other hand, recorded just five marks over the whole lap as he relaxed and aimed to enjoy the riding. Cabestany split the pair exactly, massing ten marks through a series of dabs to edge out Bou and claim second place. But Fujinami's exceptional second-lap performance gave him the win, with a two-mark advantage over Cabestany. A pair of fourth place finishes this weekend for Adam Raga (SPA), who lies second in the overall standings, means that Bou extends his championship lead to seventeen points, while Fujinami is now just one point behind Raga in third, at the season mid-point. In the Junior category, the podium was a re-shuffle of that from Saturday, with Jack Challoner (GBR) taking the win by a single point over Alfredo Gomez (SPA). The pair were extremely close throughout the day, separated by a single mark as they completed the first lap. But it was Challoner who gained a three-mark advantage in the afternoon to record the win. Just like Saturday, Alexandre Ferrer (FRA) came home in third place. Similarly, the Youth class saw the top two results swap from yesterday. Jack Sheppard (GBR) edged out Pol Tarres (SPA) to claim the win, again the two closely matched on the first lap, but Sheppard taking a four-mark advantage on the second to secure the win. This time, it was Giacomo Saleri who came home in third to round out the podium. The 2010 SPEA FIM Trial World Championship at Nevis Range, Fort William is supported by EventScotland, Highland and Islands Enterprise and The Highland Council together with Nevis Range, Alcan, Forestry commission Scotland, VisitScotland, TMX and Hope. Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5607 Figures just released show the Nevis Range visitor attraction and ski resort had the busiest June ever since it opened in 1989 Visitor numbers to the Nevis Range mountain gondola were boosted by 2 world class events taking place in June. The UCI Mountain Bike World Cup returned to the venue for the ninth year, and the UK leg of the motorcycle SPEA FIM Trial World Championship took place at the Nevis Range for the first time ever. The figures also included visitors to a new activity, High Wire Adventure at Nevis Range - a series of high ropes courses at the foot of the mountain catering for all ages from the very young to the very old, and for all abilities, from the complete novice to the more adventurous. Although the June figures didn’t include any skiers or snowboarders, the resort also reported its busiest snowsports season since 2001 with almost 35,000 skiers and snowboarders taking to the slopes during the 2009/10 winter season. Marian Austin, Nevis Range MD, commented, “We had an extremely busy winter and now we’ve had a terrific start to the summer. Two international events taking place have contributed to our figures, but even without these our visitor numbers are looking healthy.” Ms Austin added ”We’ve been working hard to make our business sustainable on an all year round basis and to offer a wider variety of activities to our customers. Last year we opened a new cross country bike trail accessed by gondola, which is the only one of its kind in the UK. And this year we’re building a high ropes course, High Wire Adventure, which will be officially opened later this month.” She concluded, “Despite fears that the recession and the (football) World Cup may have a negative impact on Scotland’s tourism sector, we’re determined to continue to deliver a unique and memorable mountain experience to our customers.” Tue, 6 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5600 NO FUSS SEARCH FOR BRITAIN'S KING OF THE MOUNTAIN(bike)S Fort William's No Fuss Events, along with three of their principal event sponsors - Orange Mountain Bikes, Hope and Benromach Single Malt Whisky - have today (Thursday 1 July) laid down the gauntlet to Great Britain's mountain biking community to find the ultimate mountain biking endurance all-rounder - The King Of The Mountains. To be in with a chance of being crowned the first ever King of the Mountains riders must take part in three challenging but fun open mountain bike events in the 2010 No Fuss stable - The Benromach 10 at Kirroughtree (10 July), The Hope Endurance Downhill (24 July), and the new Orange Tour De Ben Nevis (11 September), a no frills, 61km point-to-point mountain bike stage race that circumnavigates Ben Nevis. These brave warriors, riding each race as a solo or in pairs, will not only have to cope with energy sapping and heart pumping endurance, they will also need lighting quick reflexes, superb bike control in all conditions, nerves of steel whilst negotiating some of Scotland's remotest trails and an unerring eye for the right line if they are to pick up the ultimate prize. Frazer Coupland from No Fuss Events, said: 'The new King of the Mountains series is really appealing to us as it is aimed at the real warriors of the sport. The fact that Benromach, who have been headline sponsor for the Three Tens for three years and have truly aligned themselves with mountain biking, Hope and Orange, all British companies, have got behind the series gives us the confidence to announce this as the UK's Official (unofficial, No Fuss wouldn't have it any other way) British all round mountain bike challenge. Who will be the 2010 King of the Mountains?' Micheal Bonney from Orange Mountain Bikes explained the concept behind the series to find the UK's top all round mountain biker: 'The guys in the Orange factory ride hard, but none of them are going to win a cross country or downhill race - they're just good mountain bikers. So the King Of The Mountains series is for people like us, people who want something different. Anyone can compete to be the best all-round mountain biker. You don't have to be a cross country machine or downhill nutter. And if you're just up for a challenge, this is the hardest series the UK has to offer and you get to ride some of the best UK trails.' Entries to the ultimate all round challenge are open to solo riders or pairs. To have a chance of winning the crown riders must enter 10 at Kirroughtree, The Endurance Downhill and the Tour of Ben Nevis through the No Fuss Website. Entry fees are £145 for a solo and £245 for a pair. Points will be awarded at each event and the highest points will be the winner. Though this is an unofficial 'official' competition -No Fuss like to keep it that way - fantastic prizes, to be announced soon, will be awarded to the King of the Mountains. David Urquhart, Joint Managing Director of Gordon & MacPhail, owners of Benromach Distillery, said: 'The Three Tens are excellent, thrilling events that we're proud to put the Benromach name to. We wish all the competitors good luck in this tough new challenge, and look forward to watching what we're sure will be an exciting battle for the title of the UK's all round mountain biking champion.' Neil Arnold, Marketing Manager form Hope, said: 'This is a great concept, and really is an all round test for any mountain biker, not just hardcore cross country or downhill riders - you need to be able to do most things well to be in with a shout!' For more information and to enter go to: http://www.nofussevents.co.uk/ Thu, 1 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5620 On Saturday 24 July 2010 a record 140 armour clad adrenaline junkies from all over the UK will take on the gruelling challenge of The Hope Endurance Downhill, the toughest downhill mountain biking endurance race on the UK calendar, at Nevis Range, Fort William in the Outdoor Capital of the UK. Riders of this full-on, flat-out, no-compromise charge down one of the roughest, longest and most physically punishing courses on the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup circuit will need bucket loads of physical strength and stamina, quick reflexes, superb bike control and an unerring eye for the right line as they tackle the 2.82km track (with 555m vertical descent) as many times as possible in six hours! Can anyone beat the record 18 runs set in 2008? In this major test, for even the most experienced of downhill elite, racers will have to tackle a succession of big jumps and bumps, wooden boardwalk, sharp berms, drop-offs, rock slabs and technical natural sections on this internationally revered downhill track; all the way from the top gondola station (at 655m) to the magnificent finish section at the Nevis Range car park (100m). Frazer Coupland from organisers No Fuss Events, said: 'There were some fairly major modifications to the track for the 2010 Word Cup. It will be interesting to see how they will affect the endurance racers. 2010 will see our largest field for this event since we began in 2008 which is fantastic news as the calendar is now jam packed with events for the downhill market.' The Le Mans style mass start is another challenge that most downhill racers are not used to. It involves competitors, dressed in full armour and helmets, sprinting 100-metres along a forestry track to pick up their bikes. They then have a tough uphill ride to about three quarters of the way down from the top gondola station where they join the track for the first run down. The clock is started when the first rider gets onto the gondola for the first time. Spook from no Fuss was keen to emphasise what a great spectacle the Hope Endurance Downhill race is: 'This is a fantastic event for spectators too. There is great access onto the course from both the top gondola station and the Nevis Range Car Park. With excellent spectator viewing points the length of the course and a restaurant and a café, friends, family and hard core downhill fans will be able to soak up the adrenaline fuelled atmosphere in style, whilst cheering on the riders as they complete this awesome challenge.'. The Hope Endurance Downhill not only tests physical endurance and technical riding ability, it also tests reliability. Participants will only be allowed one bike and a list of itemised spares to see them through the whole event. At the bottom of each run participants have the opportunity to enter the tech area to carry out any running repairs, replenish fluids and to take a breather. There will be time penalties for riders who have to change wheels, forks, bars, frames and other major components. Also participants will not be allowed assistance in the maintenance of their equipment from outside the tech area. The Hope Endurance Downhill is the second event in organiser's No Fuss Events' search for the ultimate mountain biking endurance all-rounder - The King Of The Mountains. To be in with a chance of being crowned the first ever King of the Mountains riders must take part in three challenging but fun open mountain bike events in the 2010 No Fuss stable - The Benromach 10 at Kirroughtree (10 July), The Hope Endurance Downhill (24 July), and the new Orange Tour De Ben Nevis (11 September), a no frills, 61km point-to-point mountain bike stage race that circumnavigates Ben Nevis. These brave warriors, riding each race as a solo or in pairs, will not only have to cope with energy sapping and heart pumping endurance, they will also need lighting quick reflexes, superb bike control in all conditions, nerves of steel whilst negotiating some of Scotland's remotest trails and an unerring eye for the right line if they are to pick up the ultimate prize. Neil Arnold, Marketing Manager form Hope, said: 'This is a great concept, and really is an all round test for any mountain biker, not just hardcore cross country or downhill riders - you need to be able to do most things well to be in with a shout!' Media Contact: For further information please contact: Paddy Cuthbert | Podge Publicity | M:07968 699 636 | E: paddy@podge.co.uk Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5653 NOKIA COAST TO COAST SOLD OUT 1000 entries for a new multi-sport adventure race set in the Scottish Highlands in September sold out in July With a month to go until the inaugural Nokia Coast to Coast Adventure Challenge, the ultimate multi-sport adventure race across the Scottish Highlands on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 September 2010, entries have completely sold out. Demand for the 109-mile adventure challenge on foot, mountain bike and kayak from Nairn to Ballachulish has been huge with one thousand places selling out as early as July 2010; and more than 100 people on the waiting list. Jim Mee, MD of Rat Race Events, said: 'The response to our first Nokia Coast to Coast has been incredible. In offering a truly defining UK multisport challenge, combining cycling, running and kayaking, on a spectacular and dramatic route through one of the most stunning and iconic mountain landscapes in the world, we have captured the imagination of a huge number of outdoor enthusiasts from throughout the UK and further afield. 'We know that everyone taking part, from those with a reasonable level of fitness, taking on the challenge over 48 hours, to those elite athletes tackling the 109-mile course in just one day, will have an incredible experience. We hope they are on course with their training regimes and wish them all good luck for what's in store!' This latest addition to the adventure race calendar, from Rat Race Events, is part of 'The Nokia Outdoor Series' (url www.nokiaoutdoorseries.co.uk) - a range of events to celebrate the great outdoors, giving family, friends and work colleagues the opportunity to enjoy being active in some of the UK's most spectacular locations. Paul Bush OBE, Chief Operating Officer of EventScotland commented, 'For an event to sell out in its first year is great news and shows the passion around Scotland for adventure racing. 'EventScotland are delighted to be supporting the inaugural Nokia Coast to Coast which will be an event that captures some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery with competitors who relish the challenge our landscapes present. Scotland is certainly a perfect stage for events like this and we have witnessed a growth in adventure activities over the past few years with that trend looking set to continue.' Racing as a solo or in pairs athletes of the Nokia Coast to Coast Challenge will have to tackle a marathon worth of running and trekking; some on and off road mountain biking and a breathtaking kayak on a route that takes in some of the most iconic locations and amazing views in the Scottish Highlands: Loch Ness, the Great Glen, Ben Nevis and Glen Coe. Councillor Sandy Park, Convener of The Highland Council said: 'The overwhelming response to the entries into the Nokia Coast to Coast Adventure Challenge are testament to the fantastically challenging and beautiful environment that we have here in the Highlands. The Highlands of Scotland are firmly becoming established as a major international destination for athletic and sporting challenges. I am looking forward to the send off at Nairn Beach and trust that bookings will soon fill up for the Coast to Cawdor 10k run.' Although the main challenge is sold out there are still spaces left for the Nokia Coast to Cawdor 10k run which also starts at Nairn and traces the route of the River Nairn to Cawdor Castle. It features on and off road sections and is predominantly classed as a trail run. Entry fees for the Nokia Coast to Cawdor 10k are £15. For more details of the Nokia Coast to Coast Adventure Challenge and how to enter the 10k go to: http://www.scotlandcoasttocoast.com. Tue, 17 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5656 Tapestry on show at Fort William as thanks to helpers. Local women had helped create 113-yard work on the history of the ’45 Jacobite Rebellion Published: 19/08/2010 THE worlds longest tapestry is coming to Fort William today as a special thank you to the local women who helped create it. A civic reception at the Nevis Centre will welcome the huge 113-yard Prestonpans Tapestry, believed to be the longest in the world. It will be on display there for two days before moving on to Glenuig Hall on 21 and 22 August. Several local women are among the 200 volunteers who helped make the tapestry, made up of many panels each showing a scene from the early part of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s 1745 campaign, from his landing in Eriskay to his resounding victory at the Battle of Prestonpans. Tour co-ordinator, Arran Johnson said: “The creation of the Prestonpans Tapestry has been co-ordinated by the Battle of Prestonpans (1745) Heritage Trust, a Scottish charity which aims to preserve and interpret the rich heritage the 1745 Rising has left for Scotland. We commissioned the artist Andrew Crummy to design the panels which, when embroidered by the volunteers, would then come together to create this massive piece of work. “The result is a stunning array of bright colours and lively illustrations, recording the people, places, and communities involved in the ’45.” The tapestry tour, in the footsteps of the armies who fought in the campaign, was launched on Eriskay where Bonnie Prince Charlie first landed. The tapestry will ultimately reach Prestonpans where it will be greeted by spectacular battle re-enactments. Read more: http://www.pressandjournal.co.uk/Article.aspx/1878510?UserKey=#ixzz0x2M4SbEh Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT http://www.outdoorcapital.co.uk/news-item.asp?itemid=5662 News Release - Tuesday 31 August THE BIG WEEKEND OF NO FUSS ENDURANCE IN FORT WILLIAM On 11 and 12 September 2010 more than 280 multisport athletes will descend on Fort William and Lochaber, The Outdoor Capital of the UK, for a bumper weekend of the UK's toughest triathlon and mountain bike events. From a central hub at The Old Fort in Fort William outdoor event specialists No Fuss Events will stage no less than three triathlons and a grueling cross country mountain bike stage race, all combining the most breathtaking scenery in Scotland with energy sapping and heart pumping endurance in a fun and friendly environment: Saturday 11 September 2010 THE BIG BEN NEVIS TRIATHLON - Some say this is the toughest off road triathlon on the UK circuit. THE HALF BIG BEN NEVIS TRIATHLON - the Scottish Off Road Triathlon Championship and half the Big Ben distance. THE ORANGE TOUR DE BEN NEVIS (sponsored by Orange Mountain Bikes) - A no frills, 61km point-to-point mountain bike stage race that circumnavigates Ben Nevis, taking in some of the most rugged and isolated terrain in the Highlands. Sunday 12 September 2010 Neither half Ironman nor middle distance triathlon, the inaugural HIGHLAND WARRIOR (70.3) TRIATHLON will require a fighting spirit pushing even the toughest of the longer distance triathletes to the limit! These enthusiasts will not only have to cope with extreme energy sapping courses, they will also have to demonstrate great tactical ability, superb bike control and the best open water swimming techniques if they are to emerge victorious. Frazer Coupland from No Fuss Events, said: 'The Big Ben Nevis Triathlon weekend is always one of my favourite weekends. This year, the addition of the Tour De Ben Nevis and the Highland Warrior Triathlon are just going to add to the excitement. There will be a lot happening over the weekend including amazing displays by Street Trials rider Ben Savage and taster sessions for the kids at Lochaber Leisure Centre.' Multisport athletes looking for the ultimate challenge should look no further than the iconic Big Ben Nevis Triathlon on Saturday 11 September. It offers experienced competitors the opportunity to test their skills, stamina and endurance away from the smooth, predictable tarmac and calm inland waters of other, more traditional 'tri' events. This triathlon pits entrants against the choppy waters of the freezing cold Loch Linnhe (1.9km), the long, loose climbs and fast singletrack descents of Glen Nevis (90km) and the final monster challenge, a (21km) hill run up (and then back down) Ben Nevis, The UK's highest and most feared mountain. For the second year running the Half Big Ben Nevis Triathlon, the half distance race, run at the same time as the main race will be the Scottish Off Road Triathlon Championship. Also being staged on Saturday 11 September is The Orange Tour De Ben Nevis, a new event to the No Fuss programme for 2010. The ultimate mountain bike endurance race and mountain marathon rolled into one is a 61km point-to-point stage race that includes time trials, a technical downhill, a carry climb and decent, a cross country sprint and an urban stage. The route that circumnavigates the UK's highest mountain is undulating and varied with river and stream crossings, tough climbs and long rewarding descents. For riders who are looking for a sense of adventure this route has also long been recognised as one of the best mountain bike trails in the Highlands; bringing mountain biking back to the mountains. The fastest cumulative times and the highest stage points are combined to decide the winners. On Sunday 12 September triathletes competing in Fort William's inaugural Highland Warrior 70.3 Triathlon, will take on a 1900m sea loch swim, a 90km road cycle that passes by the Commando Memorial in Spean Bridge, 'Prince Charlie's Monument' at Glenfinnan and on through the mythical Glen Nevis (where Highlander, Braveheart and Rob Roy were filmed) and a 21km trail and road run through the Glen Nevis Forest at back to the finish at the Old Fort. Whilst closely related in distance to a half Ironman or middle distance triathlon this is actually a full on challenge that will push even the toughest of the longer distance multisport athletes to the limit. For more information on the NO FUSS event programme and to sign up for The Big Ben Nevis Triathlon, Orange Tour De Ben Nevis or Highland Warrior Triathlon go to: http://www.nofussevents.co.uk/ Media Contact: Paddy Cuthbert - Podge Publicity - 07968 699 636 / paddy@podge.co.uk Tue, 31 Aug 2010 00:00:00 GMT