Intrepid enthusiasts take Model T Ford up Ben Nevis — in bits
The trouble with centenaries is that the weather can often spoil the festivities, writes Garry Fraser.
Garry Fraser in the Model T Ford at the top of the mountain.
- Published in the Courier : 20.05.11
- Published online : 20.05.11 @ 09.03am
That was exactly the case on Wednesday, as enthusiasts, friends, family and other interested parties commemorated the first ascent and descent of Ben Nevis by a Model T Ford, in May 1911.
However, the car wasn't driven up as it was then, but carried up piece by piece by the intrepid volunteers.
Two Dundee men, Garry Fraser and Alan Matthew, decided to take part in the event, organised by the Model T Ford Register of Great Britain, and No Fuss Events.
Alan said, "I had never climbed Ben Nevis before, so thought this was a chance not to be missed, bearing in mind the significance of the event."
Garry had been up the Ben twice before.
It was drizzling as the climbers assembled at Achintee, Glen Nevis.
Parts of the car were handed out, with careful planning.
The seat was strapped to a stretcher and carried by six hikers. Radiator, doors, joints, dashboard and other components were stuck under arms or fastened to rucksacks as the 40-strong party set off.
The weather deteriorated by 2000 feet and, in low cloud, sleet, rain and finally snow blew in on gale-force winds.
The summit was reached in four hours and, while the car was assembled, some sought shelter in the ruins of the Ben's plateau.
After a cold hour the car was rebuilt, and the hikers were invited to have their photographs taken.
Heavy rain greeted them as they reached the halfway point of the descent and, by the time they reached the shelter of Achintee, all were soaked.
The Model T Society had warm soup and rolls waiting for the hikers and, with a pint of Model T Ale also provided in the Glen Nevis Inn, there was considerable cheer — eventually — for all concerned.
09.14am - 20.05.2011 Mike Stirling - Forfar, Scotland Report This
LOL! That's the spirit guys!
10.51am - 07.10.2011 Martyn Trow - Bromsgrove, England Report This
100 years ago, the car was driven to the summit, but now it has to be carried up in pieces and reassembled at the top. Is that 100 years of progress?
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