News
Piolet D’Or for British Mountain Guide Sandy Allan
Sandy (expedition leader) and his climbing partner Rick Allen were amongst the recipients of this year’s Piolet d’Or for conquering the Mazino Ridge of Nanga Parbat in Pakistan the world’s 9th highest mountain at 8125 metres.
Sandy Allan said, “It’s all very prestigious and great honour to be recognised by our peers, I am really excited”
“We did not know until the night of the awards if we would be given it or not as there were several days of interviews and questioning by the panel, on the night of the award ceremony in Courmayeur, Italy, the President Steven Venables announced that this year all six nominees were to be awarded!”
“The best thing of all, is that all the nominees got on so well together and there is no doubt that there were all amazing climbs , while ours was the only one in the death zone above 8000 meters I could never understand how the panel of judges could decide how one climb is better than the other. Really its mountaineering that won as it shows that there is no competition between the mountaineers, the camaraderie, climbing for passion with commitment and to take part in the adventure of climbing new ground is really what it’s all about!”
BMG Winter Test - Scotland
The winter test is the second of four examinations that must be passed to gain the IFMGA guides carnet. It is held annually in the Scottish Highlands and is considered by many to be the crux of the BMG training scheme. The test week was broken down into three elements the first day was an induction course for those applying to begin the training scheme then there was a 6 day exam incorporating a two day re-sit for some candidates from last year.
British Mountain Guides at The Outdoors Show 18th – 20th January, London Excel.
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British Mountain Guides
Welcome to the website of British Mountain Guides (BMG), which is the national association that:
- Trains and assesses mountain guides in all forms of climbing, mountaineering and ski mountaineering.
- Sets professional standards for services offered by BMG members.
- Promotes safety, enjoyment, and good practice in climbing and mountaineering.
BMG is a member of the International Federation of Mountain Guide Associations (IFMGA), which is the body that coordinates the standards and mutual recognition of the twenty-six national mountain guide associations. A British Mountain Guide is an IFMGA Guide, which put simply, means an internationally qualified guide with the knowledge and skills to lead parties in the world’s most challenging mountain environments.
IFMGA Mountain Guides are the most qualified and experienced professionals to lead people in the mountains with a training and assessment that takes many years and exceptional skills to achieve.
On this website you will find information on:
- The extensive experience and thorough training and assessment required to become qualified as a British Mountain Guide.
- The wide range of expert services offered by BMG members.
- How to contact BMG members, and how to browse our members list, with a useful search tool to help you locate guides to match your requirements.
From first steps to the biggest objectives, a British Mountain Guide is an expert in techniques and safety, and a reliable companion for your adventures.
How do I become a Mountain Guide?
Qualifying as a Mountain Guide is a demanding and rewarding process. It is a tough route, but worth it because it is, quite simply, the best job in the world!
IFMGA Conference 2012, Aviemore
In November 2012 the British Mountain Guides hosted the international meeting of the IFMGA (International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations) in the Highlands of Scotland. The week culminated with the IFMGA climbing competition at Edinburgh's superb 'Ratho' climbing wall....
About the BMG
What is a Mountain Guide?
A Mountain Guide is someone with the IFMGA carnet, the highest qualification in the world for leading people in the mountains, whether skiing, climbing or mountaineering. A BMG Guide holds the IFMGA carnet, which is the only UK qualification valid abroad for climbing and skiing off-piste on glacial terrain.
Why Hire a Mountain Guide?
Climbing or skiing with a Mountain Guide gives you peace of mind, knowing that you have chosen the best. The best person for you today, and who can go wherever your ambitions take you in the future.
