MOUNTAINS & MEN

Looking out from the Vignal courts in a north-northeast direction, we have the pleasure every day of seeing the nearest mountain: it's called 'Les Courmettes'. (photo) Many are surprised that it's altitude is over a thousand metres : in fact 'Le pic de Courmettes' has a height of 1 248 m! Only 96 m less than Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in the British Isles).

Looking northwest, the highest point is somewhere above Le Pas de la Faye, at over 1 400 m (photo) & north of St. Vallier: thus, higher than the Scottish peak (1 344 m).

Those of you wishing to be seen on the summit of our neighbouring mountain, must take the road through Bar-sur-Loup, Pont-du-Loup, continuing a hundred metres in the direction Tourettes-sur-Loup, & there turning sharp left to the village of Courmes. There you will find refreshment before leaving the car & walking up to the summit. Please tell us when you set out, & wear something yellow, so we will be able to see you waving!

I have often been surprised when chatting with Vignal members & visitors, by the unexpected activities of people: these surprises have sometimes occurred after many years of aquaintance. Imagine after about 10 years, finding that the late friend Hank, of the Dutch group, had not only been a racing driver, but was well-versed in the intricate construction of stringed instruments & especially of double-basses! It is certainly interesting to talk to people - to be friendly towards others - however much they are strangers in the first place. You never know what you may learn.

All this is an introduction to what I recently learned of one of us: he hasn't been a member very long, but when he passed by my balcony the other day, not having seen him for some time, I asked him why he hadn't been playing recently...........

He had been training to climb Kilimanjaro!!

The details followed by email: this is an amazing effort by Jonathan Hooker, to raise money for poor children existing in the village of Amani, at the foot of this mountain.

You may find all the details of altitude, volcanic activity, exposure to high winds, lack of oxygen, &c here. This will be a feat, starting October 13th, needing considerable endurance & courage.

Jonathan is appealing for sponsorship from friends & relations, & any of you inspired by this example. He has sent me the following links :

www.justgiving.com/jonimanjaro to donate.
www.amanikids.org to find out more about the childrens home.
www.facebook.com/jonathan.hooker1 to see my progress.
www.twitter.com/jonimanjaro to see my progress.