It is a rock climbing club for women who are competent climbers/ mountaineers. It does not cater for total beginners, but neither does it require members to lead extremes. The emphasis in the Pinnacle Club is on enjoying the sport at your own grade, whether it be Diff or E8.
The number of people on meets varies according to location, time of year and, of course the weather. Members climb together according to interest and ability.
The interest and experience of Pinnacle Club members extends beyond rock climbing to hill walking, winter climbing, Alpine climbing, ski mountaineering, Himalayan expeditions, fell running, caving, canoeing and other outdoor activities.
A circular distributed three times a year passes on news and keep members in touch. A handbook is issued annually and a journal every three years.
Then phone up the meet leader of any meet you wish to attend. The meet leader will give you details and may also be able to co-ordinate joint transport arrangements. The role of the meet leader is to facilitate climbing arrangements for the weekend.
Everyone attending a meet is expected to have experience in placing gear and be competent at belaying on multi-pitch routes. If you feel you do not yet have these skills you may wish to consider attending a course (see links page).
Prospective members are expected to have a sound basis of climbing experience. The club does not provide equipment and prospective members are expected to bring the necessary basic gear with them to meets.
For meets in mountainous areas they will be expected to have a good knowledge of hill walking and navigation skills, particularly in Scotland. On winter meets it is essential to have and know how to use an ice axe and crampons.
By joining the mailing list (details below) prospective members can stay in touch with the Club's activities throughout the year and will receive a regional contact list of members interested in evening cragging or local climbing trips.
Candidates for membership must have attended their 18th birthday and either (a) have taken an active part in at least four meets over a minimum period of six months, or (b) have the support in writing of at least four Club members in addition to a proposer and seconder before submitting an application form.
A membership application must be proposed and seconded by members of the Club with whom the applicant has climbed. Processing the application takes from four to six months and, when approved, the applicant becomes a full member of the Pinnacle Club. The membership fee is £20.00 per annum (£16 for students and unemployed), plus a £3 joining fee.
The Pinnacle Club is affiliated to the BMC and is insured for any organised event or activity. Club members are also insured for liability claims by third parties whilst participating in outdoor pursuits.
For any further information on the Club please contact the Membership Secretary, Michelle Batchelor, membership_secretary @ pinnacleclub.co.uk
Please take out the spaces in the email address.
For information on Introductory Rock Climbing Courses you can contact the BMC, 179 Burton Road, Manchester, M20 2BB, www.thebmc.co.uk.