Success all round at the Exmoor Challenge

The sun was out and the conditions were fantastic for this year's Exmoor Youth Challenge on Saturday so we knew that the level of competition was going to be very high!  Twelve eager children from Years 7 and 8 were ready to represent Hazlegrove in this year's challenge.

Working in teams of four, they navigated the 16 mile orienteering course across the moor using basic map and compass skills along the way.  Teams needed to reach eight checkpoints at exactly the right time, with penalty points deducted for arriving late or even early. They also completed a short quiz as they went.

The children coped with the challenges of the route admirably, climbing steep hillsides and crossing rivers with gusto. It was wonderful to see the team members working together to keep spirits up and stay motivated. A particular mention should go to the team leaders Jasmine S, Sam C and Charlotte B for guiding their teams so well. All of the pupils made us very proud with their attitude and determination to do their best.

When the results were in, we were delighted to find that the children Hazlegrove had done very well indeed:

• The girls team came FIRST in their category in a field of 24 teams.
• The boys team came equal THIRD in a field of 28,
• The mixed team also came THIRD in a field of 51.

Our camp for the trip was based up on the moor on Winsford Hill where we enjoyed stunning catering courtesy of the school kitchens and our camp quartermaster Mr Chivers. Truly, the bacon and sausage BBQ breakfasts will live long in all of our memories. Nurse Spilsbury was on hand to deal with any medical issues. Mr Shaw provided an enormous chocolate bar for the infamous dice-roll game on Saturday evening, and even came along and Mr Floyd joined the fun.

Fantastic results, and a truly enjoyable weekend for all concerned. Many thanks to parents and staff who turned out to support on the day.

Well done team Exmoor!