Exe ValleyExmoor Challange
Takes place on: 4th May 2024
Dear parents and carers,
I am writing to you with further information regarding the Exmoor Challenge event, which is due to be held on Saturday 4th May. We will finalise teams after the final practice walk next Friday, however the 3 Cheriton start times are 09:13, 09:33 and 09:47. Therefore we would like all children to get to Dulverton Junior School for 9am. Please note that parking is often tricky so make sure you leave yourselves plenty of time!
I will be there on the day to meet the children and make sure they know where to go and what to do. I will also be around to see them come in at the end. We do ask that all children have a parent/carer or nominated adult (who knows they are responsible!) in Dulverton in case of emergencies.
Attached to this email is the route and notes for competitors, and all other information can be found here: Exmoor Rotary Club (exmoor-rotary.org.uk)
Essential Equipment List
Each team must have and carry (items highlighted in orange will be provided by school):
1. Rucksack
2. Map OL9 (1:25 000 scale, waterproof or in a waterproof case)
3. Compass
4. Torch
5. Emergency survival bag (not space blanket)
6. Basic First Aid kit, including sun block.
7. Whistle (for use in emergencies)
8. Watch or clock (e.g. mobile phone)
9. Money for emergencies, etc.
10.Carrier Bag to carry to dispose tissues/ pick up Litter.
We are happy for teams to take mobile phones but these should not be relied on, as signal strengths are inadequate over much of the route. You should not use the Sat.Nav. / GPS facility even if available as it can easily confuse - it has happened).
Each individual must also have:
1. Own food and drink (water can be topped up at Checkpoints)
2. Stout suitable footwear (not Wellington boots)
3. Warm pullover and trousers (avoid jeans)
4. Hat and gloves/Sun Hat
5. Emergency rations (chocolate/drink etc.)
6. Waterproofs
7. Paper and pencil
8. Face Masks
9. Hand Sanitiser
10. Disposable Tissues ‘catch it, bin it, kill it’
Important Information from the Rotary Club
Parking & Traffic: We have had to reduce the number of teams participating in recent years because of the number of parents and teachers who have insisted on trying to follow the whole route in cars and minibuses, despite repeated requests not to do so. The safety of the young people taking part has been compromised in particular by cars visiting the checkpoints at Hawkridge Road and at Tarr Steps. There is also limited parking at Dulverton Junior School, and we would be grateful if you could encourage people to share transport, and ask that Dulverton Junior School only be used as a dropping-off point for competitors. Please note that no dogs can be allowed on the school playing fields.
It is our understanding is that the clapper bridge at Tarr Steps will not be repaired in time for the event. As a result, in conjunction with Exmoor National Park, the Exmoor Challenge co-ordinating committee has agreed an alternative route between Checkpoints 2 and 5 including a new Checkpoint 3 at Slade Lane Bridge rather than Anstey Gate. Much of this route will follow the Two Moors Way. It will result in the same total distance being walked by teams and with a little less climbing involved – although there is one steep road climb immediately after Slade Bridge.
The new route description and the starting schedule can both now be found on the website. http://www.exmoor-rotary.org.uk/youth_chall.html
The only drawback to the new alternative route is that, unfortunately, it takes away the opportunity for supporters to see teams passing across the Anstey Common section. Each year we ask team leaders to impress upon all parents and supporters the importance of not going to Checkpoints 2, 3 and 4, all situated this year along narrow roads. Sadly, each year a minority choose to ignore this requirement. Compliance with the requirement will be even more important this year as the new route is unavoidably near roads that are essential for support service vehicles for the event and local residents … and we just cannot allow blockages to occur. Reluctantly, we may feel obliged to disqualify any team /organisation that fails to be guided by this requirement.
If you would like any further information about the event, don't hesitate to get in touch. This is such an achievement for the children and they should all feel very proud of themselves for taking part.
Best wishes,
Claire Theedom
yc22 notes for competitors.pdf