Garmin has donated 10 handheld units to help train walkers
Technophobe navigators will be able to hone their skills more easily after a manufacturer’s gift to mountain experts.
Global Positioning System company Garmin has given ten of its eTrex H handheld units to the Mountaineering Council of Scotland for use on its training courses.
The courses aim to help hillwalkers and mountaineers use the satellite-based technology to find their way. The MCofS runs regular training sessions at venues around Scotland.
MCofS mountain safety adviser Heather Morning said: “If you have a GPS and don’t know much more than how to switch it on and get a grid reference then you should come along and join one of our courses.” She said there are six courses to choose from this month.
Garmin’s outdoor and fitness product manager Andrew Silver said: “Garmin GPS handhelds are known for their reliability and accuracy – something that is essential when you’re taking part in any outdoor activities such as hillwalking, climbing or skiing.
“We would always stress that people have the relevant maps with them as well as the knowledge to use them, especially in unfamiliar or challenging terrain. However, GPS provides vital, accurate information on where you are, where you’ve been and helps you navigate the outdoors with more confidence.”
MCofS chief officer David Gibson said: “The MCofS is grateful to Garmin for this generous offer. We are committed to running first-class courses relating to mountain skills and thanks to Garmin these new units will enable us to provide GPS courses closer to the main centres of population, starting with courses based near Edinburgh and Glasgow.”
There is one place left on upcoming one-day courses this Saturday and Sunday at Glenmore Lodge near Aviemore. The following weekend, 16 and 17 October will also see courses run at Glenmore, with two one-day training sessions in the Pentland Hills on 30 and 31 October. The courses cost £25 and more details are available on the Mountaineering Council of Scotland website. Click on the mountain safety button.
