UKC

Bonington's Olympic Ascent

© Mark Reeves

Sir Chris Bonington took the Olympic torch up Snowdon yesterday, proving to the enthusiastic crowd that had turned out that he can still climb in fine style in a fetching white tracksuit ensemble. Local climber, photographer and instructor Mark Reeves was on hand to capture his moment of summit glory, and has sent us a few pictures.

Chris Bonington goes for the top  © Mark Reeves
Chris Bonington goes for the top
© Mark Reeves

Having enjoyed a lifetime of impressive ascents under his own steam, this time Sir Chris rode to the top, letting the train take the strain. Perhaps the senior railcard discount was too good to miss.

'The honour of carrying this torch, and joining other torchbearers around the United Kingdom, the whole thing is wonderful' he told the BBC.

'I find it quite emotional as this is to do with so much of my climbing heritage. I started my climbing here 61 years ago. This is huge and I'm very, very proud.'

Olympic Flame summit moment  © Mark Reeves
Olympic Flame summit moment
© Mark Reeves
It's not just Everest that's overcrowded these days  © Mark Reeves
It's not just Everest that's overcrowded these days
© Mark Reeves



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30 May, 2012
Caption for the last one: "What was that? Blessed are the cheese makers?"
30 May, 2012
What time was he up there? I was on top at 1 ish (oblivious to the fact the flame was going to the summit the same day!)
30 May, 2012
About 10 in the morning, I think.
30 May, 2012
I am a huge fan of Sir Chris, he has done so much for climbing over the years and he was a great supporter of a sponsored climbing event I organised way back in 92. So I hope he won't mind me saying that I couldn't help but think of Gandalf when I saw that photo. Standing there saying to those with drills and bolts...."You shall not pass"....or should that be "You shall not Pen-y-Pass" Seriously though I'm chuffed to see him holding it aloft.
30 May, 2012
Sorry, this Olympic games is so full of corruption and mendacity I don't understand why someone like Sir Chris even came any where close...
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