Exercise Allgau Rose was a training exercise where 10 students from Yorkshire Universities Air Squadron went to the Allgau region of the Bavarian Alps. During our time in Bavaria we had 5 full training days: 2 of these were hillwalking days reaching peaks of up to 1893m, 2 were ‘Kletterstieg’ days, and the remaining day was spent in an indoor climbing wall. Students were given the chance to lead in various scenarios, whilst under the supervision of instructors.
The objectives of the expedition were to develop resilience, ethos, team cohesion, and leadership through the use of Adventurous training, in an environment not available in the United Kingdom.
The expedition was designed to challenge participants, both physically and mentally, whilst in a safe mountaineering environment. Personnel were able to develop leadership skills, and the progressive nature of the expedition allowed for an increasing difficulty of hill/mountain walking, and protected climbing routes, known as ‘Kletterstieg’, alongside some indoor bouldering and lead climbing. The unfamiliar alpine environment provided a unique opportunity for all participants, as the exposed alpine environment is one not available in the UK.
The expedition provided more than just developing technical mountaineering ability, it challenged students and facilitated the growth of effective communication, supporting each other, and strengthening resilience, confidence, and leadership.
One of the most significant challenges of the expedition was the hot and humid weather and conditions were continually assessed throughout the expedition to ensure safety of all participants. Therefore, on one day, in order to mitigate the risk, we had an indoor bouldering and lead climbing day.
Overall, the expedition had a significantly positive impact on all participants. Participants massively stretched themselves over the 5 days of training, learning new skills, operating effectively under various pressures and discovering coping strategies, and developing leadership styles.
“During this incredible trip to the Bavarian alps I not only found a new appreciation for spending time in the mountains and pushing myself to learn new skills, but the friendships it can forge” – Jamie O’ N
