February 2008 TTN 04

WHAT SUPERB WEATHER, YOU HAVE SEEN DARTMOOR AT ITS FINEST, hopefully we shall see Dartmoor at its worst with the legendary fog and rain of Dartmoor sometime during the rest of the weekends.

What can we say, a perfect gentle introduction to what Dartmoor is and if you did what my group did on Sunday afternoon, call each hill (raised ground) a lump, it does not seem as bad! As leaders we were all very impressed by excellent team spirit, and the maturity shown by all during the weekend, even so there is still many points to consider for the next weekend.

Parents - you should be aware the some of the walking groups we currently have are of mixed sex, with an uneven balance of each sex. In training we always take extra tents for those who want an extra tent for their group (we like them to camp in their walking groups as this produces a better team spirit). Extra tents for the event however are not possible.

Walking pace

Walk at a pace you can keep to, (we do expect 3km an hour across all ground on average for 35 milers, 4km per/hr for 45 milers) bit embarrassing for the 45 team who were being outpaced by a group of first time 35 milers! Only because they kept at a manageable pace, and had limited stops.

Walking boots /socks

Please ensure the socks are not baggy and that you do your boots up as tight as you can, this will limit the blisters and ensure your feet stay compftable.

Map reading

If it's your turn, have a go. We are there to help and encourage and you will only learn by practicing, even the best navigators will make mistakes.

Team kit

Divide it up fairly among yourselves but do consider who the strongest walkers are. Also you are all responsible as a group for all team kit, and may well be asked to replace it if it is a careless lost (the new maps are £12.50 each).

First time the new tents are used and we have already lost a set of tent poles! No tent poles to be attached to the outside of any bag (including 45 milers).

Stamina / level of fitness

This needs to improve among a few of you, climb the stairs, rather than use the lift. If you have a couple of hours to spare get out to local country side (even Blaise Castle) do a brisk walk carrying a full rucksack, it will soon make a difference.

The trainers will often set the pace over the next couple of walks.

Tent etiquette

At night do consider all the other tents around you, you need a good rest, so be quiet as early as possible. Also if you are to shout out from inside the tent please check who you may be talking to, otherwise you may end up going straight back to Bristol. You know who you are.

Food & cookers

Each meal should be wrapped and sealed up separately and labelled e.g. sat lunch.

We have said on many occasions pot noodles are not allowed, so please remember.

Cookers we are trying to keep the walking groups the same for next weekend, so if able to share please do.

Baseball caps / sun hats

These would have been very useful to many of you last weekend so please pack them for all hikes.

Rucksacks

Have  a look at yours if it's bigger than a 65 litre or if the shoulder straps no longer offer any protection for your shoulders consider using one of our loan kit. Phone Mike if you wish to borrow one.

So overall a successful weekend had by all, and lots of positives to build on for the future weekends. Enjoy your half term break and make the most of it by getting as much exercise in as possible. Any questions or queries please give any of us a call.

See you in March

Sooty