2014 turned out to be a similar year to 2013, only slightly less successful due to having fewer nearby Marilyns left to bag. Again, the year began very promisingly, with an excellent trip to Torridon combining some easy winter climbing with two new Grahams.
Progress was slow but fairly steady over most of the year, with several day trips to run up some of my remaining relatively accessible Marilyns and Humps, and taking opportunities as they arose while travelling.
Liathach (photo: Alastair Swanston)
Following the Tour de France around Yorkshire provided an excellent opportunity to walk over new hills en-route to see some of the main climbs in the race. Another highlight of the year was a trip to Moidart in late August, including a round of the Glen Moidart skyline from Beinn Gaire to Sgurr Dhomhuill Mor via Croit Bheinn and Rois-Bheinn.
As with 2013, I had the opportunity to roam a little higher and further from home during the summer. My highpoint was the Dôme de Neige des Ecrins - 4015m high but only 41m of prominence so of little interest to this group.
Overall, I just about managed to keep up with my target of 50 a year, with 49 new ascents, but a net gain of 51 Marilyns thanks to the tamperers and checking of old records.
