Trekking, 'Tigers Pyreneen Pinnacle Venturer', French Pyrenees, Jul 2011, ID 1108

Kent ACF

A team of 6 young people aged 17-19 from Kent Army Cadet Force travelled to the French Pyrenees to take part in an Expeditions and activity week incorporating their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Gold Level Expedition. The planning and preparation was nearly two years from its inception, with the onus on the young people to steer their project.

Back in 2009, the team decided they would like to travel the French Pyrenees. “At this time as a team we had no idea just how much work was needed. Fundraising was something that appeared a lot easier than it actually was.” Cadet RSM Jay Moore.

The group departed in the early hours of the 22nd of July with a long journey ahead of them to the Haute-Pyreenes in the region of St. Lary Soulon where they set up camp for a much needed rest and the acclimatization period. The following morning, having woken to the surrounding scenery slowly clearing, we headed out on a low level walk, the intention was to pack light but some wished to prepare with rucksacks full to get used to the movement and carry out any final adjustments. Despite the humidity the excitement of the two years spent planning coming to fruition was clearly evident. The Assessment would start later that evening with the final kit check from our assessor.

The four day expedition for the Gold DofE Expedition Section was marred by four days of persistent heavy rain. The rise and fall of the route lent itself to some fantastic views which, due to spending most of the day in the cloud, meant were mainly seen on postcards in local stalls. With the rest and recuperation activity days planned for the end of the week in Bagneres-du-Luchon the group pushed on with grit and determination looking forward to the treats they had planned.

The sky cleared just in time to squeeze in adrenaline filled activities such as parascending, climbing and mountain biking. This definitely wore away any niggling aches and pains.

“The exercise was a great success and the team found the whole experience completely exhilarating. At times it was difficult but as the team reminded themselves Gold DofE is not meant to be easy." Sgt Emily Smith. The ten day exercise has given some of our most promising young adults the opportunity to dig deep and realise what can be achieved when they really apply themselves to their full potential.

Thank you to Captain I Treeby our driver, Sgt G Naylor our assessor and Lt T Young our Supervisor. Not forgetting the staff at County HQ for their continued support.

The exercise was made possible by funding from the Ulysses Trust, The Nancy Ovens Bursary and Skills Active, donations from local parishes and voluntary organizations as well as fundraising events and personal contributions.

Thanks to

working in partnership with