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What is It?. It is the ‘ Ultimate Challenge ’ for all Scouts and Explorer Scouts in East & West Sussex A test of fitness and navigation A test of all Scouting skills, including teamwork
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What is It? • It is the ‘Ultimate Challenge’ for all Scouts and Explorer Scouts in East & West Sussex • A test of fitness and navigation • A test of all Scouting skills, including teamwork • ….. but, best of all, it is a fantastic experience and great fun!
Where is It? • Somewhere on the South Downs • The route is secret and is different every year
What’s Involved? • Hiking in teams of four, without assistance, for 25 miles over two days • Camping overnight and cooking your own meals • Map reading to find checkpoints • ‘Incidents’ (tests) at each checkpoint
How Good is It? • … Probably the best thing you’ll ever do as a Scout! • Those who complete the training will qualify to join the District hillwalking trip to the Lake District next April • All of this counts towards your Expedition Award and Chief Scout’s Gold Award … • … and will put you on track for the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme in Explorers.
When is It? • 23rd and 24th March 2013 • There’s also the less challenging ‘Ashdown Hike’ on the 3rd March
So Why do I Need to Know Now? • Because you’ll need to do a lot of training between now and then! • Training hikes are available every weekend from 12th January until the competition • The first hike, just for fun, is on 6th January and families are welcome! • Need to know what it’s really like – ask Maia, Nik, Caitlin or Will. Okay, maybe not Will, he tends to sleep a lot on hikes!
What Equipment is Needed? • Hiking Boots (comfortable, robust, waterproof, with good ankle support) • Good quality waterproofs (jacket & over-trousers) • Warm clothes, in layers, including thermal top, fleece & trousers (quick drying items - NEVER JEANS) • Warm hat & gloves (ideally waterproof) • 50-60L rucksack • 3-season sleeping bag (needed by 3rd March) • Water bottle or bladder • …….and sunglasses! • Full kit list will be provided – please ask Richard for advice before shopping!
Where Can I Find Out More? • Ask your Leader • Read the Booklet • Go to www.overlandhike.com • Convince your parents • Tell your Leader that you want to take part • Ask Father Christmas for any equipment you may need! Then turn up and have a go!