Ode To SOTA
What lofty peaks do I aspire?
On which to set my lengthy wire
And does the pleasure match the pain?
As I set out to climb again
In sleet and rain and icy hail
Ascending ripped by bitter gale
Each step more weary than the last
I steel myself to set my mast
To yonder pinnacle I must climb
Where mists will mask a view divine
Gasping for breath I slowly haul
My aching frame o’er stony wall
Brackish streams which to ford
Deep and narrow or shallow but broad
Pushing through the untrod bracken
My meagre pace I often slacken
To high point where few have stood
I weave my way through tangled wood
On rocky paths many a stumble
Oft walking stick prevents a tumble
At last upon the summit top
I lay my load and I can stop
Unpack the kit erect the mast
Make sure the pegs are knocked in fast
Sheltered in the summit cairn
I call CQ and work in turn
The chasers who answer my call
Be patient I will work you all
These lofty peaks to which I aspire
On which to set my lengthy wire
Well does the pleasure match the pain?
Ask me when I climb again
Stephen Studdart GW7AAV 2nd October 2007