Ten Tors 2009

The first weekend on Dartmoor for this years troop was an exciting one. After a rigorous scruteneering session and a few close shaves for some of the walkers as far as kit was concerned (Please read the check list next time guys!!) we were on our way.

With a glorious sunny drive down I thought we were in luck but little did I know! Not long after the walking began so did the showers, but spirits were high and on we wandered. A few little trips and slips along with some slightly bigger falls and face plants (naming no names Team C!) we all arrived at camp slightly damp and quite tired but most of the tents went up quite quickly, tea was cooked & and early night was in order for almost all (45ers).

Everyone up bright and early on Sunday morning but setting off took a little longer for some more than others (a little less dawdling next time guys as if it was raining – we’d all have been in trouble!) and wet boots was probably the word of the day especially for who ever it was that left their boots outside their tent over night – not a good plan!!

The sun was out and walkers were merry and the first couple of tors past without being noticed and then as the rain kicked in so did tiredness, lack of food and water (remember you’ll eat a lot more than you would on a normal school day and leaders are always hungry – bring lots!). Navigators did well even through the rain, wind, snow and face cutting hail, and it was nice to hear that teams navigated to a suitable crossing point of river that was slightly bigger than expected. I was impressed with the team work as rucksacks were shared and encouragement was given, and the teams crossed the finishing line/car park entrance together!

WELL DONE to everyone who walked last weekend it was an all round good effort, but as you’ll all be aware there is still plenty of room for improvement and more training to be done. Please can you all remember:-

• Read and follow the checklist
• Think about how you organise your pack
• Bring lots of food that is high in energy and will stop you getting tired
• You are walking as a team – help each other, if your tent is down and ready help your team mates with theirs, if someone is struggling help share the load

See you next time, Nat

Lost Property

• 3 LED Petzl Tikka head torch - black and grey patterned elastic head strap
• Black Crag Hopper water proof trousers, small
• Dark blue Gelert waterproof trousers, size 12
• Grey ish walking trousers – Thomas Bater
• Green O’Neill Hoody
• Well used blue roll matt, with black straps
• Elevation trouser liners – XS
• One blue glove with grey bits
• Pink flannel and Colgate MaxWhite in bag
• Pair Black & white wollen thick socks
• M&S boxers – Grey with Red and black strips

Missing items

• Map case D
• F/A KIT B
• F.TT 5 P.38 Polar Explorer 35 mile team A
• Tent inner ( P.Tomlinson has this)
• Black Berghaus waterproof jacket belonging to Lawrence Bull. His name ought to be in it.