This October half-term, retired Isle of Wight teacher David Moorse will swap the classroom for the crags as he attempts one of Britain’s hardest mountain routes – the Cuillin Round on the Isle of Skye – to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK.
Now in his mid-sixties, David will spend three days and nights in the mountains, climbing, abseiling and bivvying along the route without returning to base.
A demanding journey across the Cuillin
The Cuillin Round links 59 peaks over 34 miles, with a total climb of more than 23,000 feet.
It includes exposed scrambles, technical rock climbs graded up to “Severe”, and complex navigation along the Cuillin Ridge – widely regarded as the UK’s most challenging mountaineering traverse.
Setback and recovery
David had originally aimed to make the attempt in June, taking advantage of long summer days offering up to 18 hours of light.
A knee injury, just a fortnight before he was due to begin, forced him to abandon that plan.
Three months later, with far less time to train and autumn’s shorter daylight hours to contend with, he has decided to take on the challenge regardless. He says,
“I’ve spent a lifetime encouraging young people to push their limits and persevere.
“Now it’s my turn. This is as much about resilience as it is about adventure – and it’s all for a cause that matters deeply to me.”
Supporting vital dementia research
David is raising funds for Alzheimer’s Research UK, driven by a determination to support the fight against dementia, which affects around one million people across the country.
He hopes his climb will help highlight the importance of research into new treatments and early diagnosis that could transform how the disease is understood and managed.
Supporters can follow his progress and donate via his fundraising page.
Thanks to those who made it possible
David credits his success in preparing for the challenge to the guidance of Adrian Trendall from All Things Cuillin, and the logistical support of Misty Isle Boat Trips in Elgol.
He also acknowledges kit support from Keela Outdoors, La Sportiva, Rock & Run, Go Army, Blacks and All Things Cuillin.
