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April 25th 2024
Imagine a weekend pushing your limits, both on land and water. Picture learning vital survival skills, working tirelessly as a team and celebrating triumphs, big and small. This is exactly what a group of intrepid adventurers experienced on their Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Expedition with Karos Adventure.
For the first time ever we joined Karos Adventure to run a 'boots and boats' expedition. Teams tackled both hiking and canoeing, requiring them to learn navigation, emergency procedures (both on land and water) and effective paddling techniques.
The Saturday arrival brought threatening skies, prompting a race against the rain to set up tents. A crucial tip – pegging down the back first – proved invaluable as the coming days turned gusty.
With lighter packs, the teams embarked on navigation training with Mark and Matt. Brushing up on these skills was vital for the days ahead. Learning to work as part of a team, not relying on just one person, and looking out for each other helps ensure a successful expedition. Though not a strenuous hike, the first day's training left the groups happy to return to camp. By nightfall, they had reviewed basic first aid, ensured their packs were streamlined and even enjoyed an early bedtime – 7.30 pm! Their accomplishment and cheerfulness were evident, reflecting their enjoyment of the small moments and strong team spirit.
Both groups made great progress the following day. Arriving at Ladybower reservoir, the second group were in high spirits! Meanwhile, the first group, revelling in their early success and taking delight in little things during their day, had already set up tents and were preparing to cook, another early bedtime in their sights....7.30 pm! Despite their fatigue, the second group tackled the windy conditions to pitch their tents, demonstrating their resilience.
Anticipating strong winds at altitude, the leaders opted for a low-level route the next day. The teams braved a weather rollercoaster – sunshine, rain, hail and even a snow flurry! Their perseverance was rewarded with a sense of accomplishment upon reaching camp. Perhaps the promise of a pub dinner before canoe training the next day also fuelled their spirits!
For canoe training, we relocated to the sheltered Froghall, which was more appropriate for the paddle training given the windy weather. Bundled up, the girls donned their buoyancy aids and were taught how to paddle efficiently to conserve their energy. They were soon racing up and down the canal, having mastered paddling techniques and even practiced capsize recovery, their whoops of delight echoing across the water as they righted a boat.
On day four with the wind at their backs, they paddled towards Nottingham, arriving at lunch a full hour ahead of schedule. Teamwork came into play again as they portaged the canoes around a weir. While not the most enjoyable task (canoes are heavy!), the thought of a phone-filled journey home on the minibus kept them motivated. The final stretch of their journey was done in very quick time. The staff only just beat them to their end point. They still seemed full of energy when they said their thanks to Matt from Karos Adventure and joined the staff on the minibus.
We are incredibly proud of the girls' positive attitude throughout the expedition. Their ability to tap into their inner strength, support each other and find joy in the little things is a true testament to their resilience. We look forward to their final Assessed Expedition in the Lake District, where, hopefully, calmer waters and kinder weather will allow them to fully enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
The Peak District Expedition training tested my limits. I mastered navigating by bearings through variable weather and conquered relentless uphill climbs. Despite the challenges, the experience was incredible.
The nights in the tent and huddled in barns to cook led to great bonding. It's an experience I wouldn't have had without DofE and I'm incredibly grateful for it.
Both groups tackled the challenges head-on with determination and resilience and I'm eager to see how we can apply these skills in our upcoming summer assessment!
- Bethan (L6MAC)
