Focus Mountaineering is run by myself, Andy Wardle. I am a professional instructor and experienced mountaineer, holding the Mountain Instructor and Winter Mountain Leader Awards. I am also a full member of the Association of Mountaineering Instructors (AMI).
From a young age I was lucky enough to be involved in hill walking, camping and the outdoors in general. This developed into a keen interest in climbing whilst studying engineering at University where I undertook many trips to popular climbing destinations around Britain and also gained early Alpine climbing experience. Following University I started a career as an Army Officer. Whilst gaining real leadership experience in testing environments, I dedicated my free time to building a wealth of international mountaineering experience as well as leading adventurous training expeditions. In 2007 the lure of the hills became too much and I left the forces and moved to the Highlands to pursue my mountaineering ambitions.
Experience:
- Rock Climbing: Climbed all around the UK and extensively in Europe including many classic routes at extreme grades.
- Winter Climbing: Extensive Scottish winter climbing up to grade VI as well as continental icefall climbing.
- Alpine Climbing: Experience of 6 alpine summer climbing seasons climbing a wide range of classic routes up to TD grade.
- Skiing: Undertaken intensive race training, an accomplished off-piste skier and ski tourer.
- Led Expeditions to Corsica, Morocco, Tenerife, Yosemite & The Grand Canyon.
- Regular freelance instructor at Glenmore Lodge, Scotland's National Outdoor Training Centre.