In November last year the first annual Glenwood Karoo Challenge began at Die Hel near Prince Albert. With temperatures in excess of 50 degrees, 40 intrepid Grade 10 learners and 10 staff members set off on an 18-day adventure that would see them covering 500km on foot, in canoes and on bicycles.
After a long, hard and very hot slog out of Die Hel, the next day's journey involved a fast cycle down the beautiful Seweweeks-poort, and then 'cooling off' in the refreshing Calitzdorp warm baths.
Most days were physically and mentally challenging, but for most participants the toughest days of all were the cycles up the Rooiberg Pass and then, a few days later, the 76km to Grootvadersbos via the Gysmanshoek Pass.
Camp life soon acquired a routine of its own - the intense Karoo heat meant that tents had to be packed up at 04:00 in order to cover most of the distance before midday. After the cycling, the Breede River presented new challenges, especially one day which became a 26km paddle into a headwind. Students were tested physically, mentally and emotionally, but underwent a unique life experience.
Generous assistance by Eden Municipality meant that a disaster management specialist and vehicle accompanied the group at all times. The Grade 10s were also given the opportunity to make decisions affecting the group, prepare meals, write letters to family and friends and learn outdoor skills. A day helping out a school in Vermaaklikheid also meant that the learners gave back something to the community along the way, as part of a broader outreach program.
All in all, this was an outstanding educational opportunity in which young people learned to co-operate in groups as well as to be introspective about their own roles as individuals.
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Forty Grade 10 learners and 10 staff members took part in an 18-day adventure in which they covered 500km on foot, in canoes and on bicycles. They took a quick time out for this photo.
