“We have set up Mont Blanc Training with the aim of providing enjoyable, affordable training and information in the UK prior to embarking on an ascent of Mont Blanc.”   Graham and Jacky

 Graham McMahon

Since my first adventures in North Wales, as a teenager, I have gone on to climb and ski in many wonderful places; North and South America, Asia, Australasia, Africa and Europe . I become a mountaineering instructor (MIC) in 1989 then an International Mountain Guide (IFMGA) in 2001 and I still love it!

I spent many years as a Senior Instructor at Plas y Brenin (the national mountain centre ) introducing novices to the mountains and helping experts improve. I currently work as an independent guide. I spend the summers mountaineering and rock climbing and the winters skiing and ice climbing. I work on courses teaching aspiring alpinists the basics and I guide people in Europe and further afield.  Much of my summer work involves taking people up Mont Blanc for Mont Blanc Guides. I don’t count the number of times I have been to the summit as often the hardest days don’t finish with the summit !  I climb it regularly every summer and occasionally on skis in the Spring.

What is an IFMGA Guide?

IFMGA stands for International Federation of Mountain Guide Associations. The IFMGA carnet is the highest internationally recognised qualification for instruction and guiding in rock and ice climbing, mountaineering, off-piste skiing and ski touring.

This badge, recognised throughout the mountain world is your guarantee of their professional training and competence in all aspects of mountaineering and client care. Guides are not just leaders, but can also train you in any of the disciplines for which their qualification covers.

Only IFMGA guides are allowed to work in the high mountains, on glaciers, etc. in most Alpine countries. Anyone else offering their services in this capacity is breaking the law and more importantly is not insured for liability. Using them will also probably invalidate your insurance. To learn more visit the IFMGA website.

 

Jacky McMahon

I was born and brought up in North Wales into a climbing family. I have climbed and skied extensively throughout Europe and further afield. I hold the summer Mountain Leader award (ML) and the International Mountain Leader award (IML). I run the administrative side of Mont Blanc Training. Contact me if you want more information about our courses.