Episode 39: Kevin Howett - Climb Now, works Done (35 years of Mountaineering Scotland)

Today we have a real legend on climbing. Someone who I think doesn’t get anywhere near enough recognition for all the work he has done for us all, and all the change that he has made happen, that every single climber, mountaineer and Hill Walker in Scotland has benefited from.

Yes I’m talking about Mountaineering Scotlands very own Kevin Howett.

Now Kevin after 35 years with us is hanging it up and retiring, but before we goes, he is here to give us a history lesson.

For those of you that don’t know, myself and Calum both work for Mountaineering Scotland, and they very kindly allow us to run this podcast through our positions. Mountaineering Scotland is the only recognised representative body for hill walkers, climbers, mountaineers and ski-tourers who live in Scotland or who enjoy Scotland’s mountains, and acts to represent, support and promote Scottish mountaineering. But what started as a passionate team of volunteers, Mountaineering Scotland has been going for over 50 years now. Kevin Howett was the first paid member and has been with us for 35 years.

In this interview Kevin takes us back to the beginning of his career and gives us an insight into the major work that Mountaineering Scotland has been involved in over the last 3 decades, and that he has been crucial in. Kevin gives his own personal perspective  on all of the work he has been involved in and how the organisation has evolved. From access to our most beloved areas, to climbing developments both indoors and out, its incredible how much he has done.

It was hard to distill 35 years down to one podcast, so I’ve split this into two parts, the first focusing on his access, conservation and safety work, and the second part will be very climbing focused looking at his role in the development of your indoor climbing walls, the entire coaching scene and our incredible RealRock program.

So strap in and enjoy a journey through time, with Kevin Howett