The Old Gits

Who are these mysterious beings? In the University of Kent (at Canterbury) Mountaineering Club, “Old Git” is an affectionate term given to all or any alumni member of the Club, regardless of their age or social standing. So you my friend as a member of THE CLUB at Kent will, in due time, will become an old git. This is regardless as to how long you are studying at Kent, be it one year as an overseas exchange student, or even if you spend seven years studying for Bachelors, Masters and then a PhD.

Not all Old Gits are still ‘active’, i.e. still involved with the Club. There is no requirement to become active after leaving Uni. With most old gits being spread to the four quarters of the globe, not everyone has the ability or inclination to keep involved. But why should those old gits who are active want to stay involved? Well as you are about to find out, the UKC Mountaineering Club is the very best club at Kent. More than just a sports club, more than just a social club, so who wouldn’t want to stay involved. The old gits that come along provide an invaluable asset to the Club, by passing on their experience to new members, be it walking, climbing or both. They assist the current committee by offering assistance and guidance. They assist on trips by leading walks, by setting up top-ropes, instructing new members in climbing skills and techniques, cooking the communal meal, and even driving minibuses, if no other drivers are available (always a problem at the beginning of the year). They can also supply an almost endless supply of stories and anecdotes, for the very reasonable sum of a pint and even in some cases the mere promise of a pint. They are often the butt of current member’s humour. So to make best use of your time here in the Club, get to know them, and get the best out of them. A pint or two is cheap at half the price.

So on behalf of all old gits, we hope that you enjoy your time at Kent, as much as we did. Jarvis