Focus Mountaineering is run by myself, Andy Wardle. I am an experienced mountaineer and professional instructor holding the Mountain Instructor Certificate (MIC), the UK's highest award for all mountaineering activities. 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 and other outdoor activities. 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 entered 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 abroad. In 2007 the lure of the hills became too much and I left the forces to launch Focus Mountaineering and share my love of the mountains with others.
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 VII 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.
- Associate instructor at Glenmore Lodge, Scotland's National Outdoor Training Centre.
