Re: 50 MIler restrictions?
Gary Veik (gveik@RMI.NET)
Sun, 15 Aug 1999 16:07:55 -0600
Bob and Rusty Taylor wrote:
> my question; do you impose lower age limits and/or other qualifing
> requirements for 50 miler hikes/high adventure type trips?
>
Our troop does alot of hiking/canoeing and a 50 miler is done at least once a
year. Not only is age a factor, but so is physical ability. More often than
not we have to have friends travel in different groups which are based upon
ability and attitude as defined in pre-hike/canoe meetings and outings. For
example, we went to Philmont this year with two crews. Even though the Scouts
all met the age limits, the pre-hikes (at least 10 miles per) indicated that
some 17 year-olds would go in the slower/easier trek and some 14 year-olds
would go in the faster/harder trek. This was done with the Scouts input as
they all realized the situation. If they prefered to be with friends, then OK,
they would have to walk slower. But they made the decision.
Bottom line, you need to put limits but let the Scouts understand why. Your
practice hikes/outings should be done in the same manner, if possible, as the
real thing. Have the Scouts carry a full backpack during practice and make
sure you have overnight outings. Everyone will 'discover' where they are
lacking and a good troop will work together to resolve the opportunity (not
problem).
Another thing that you may want to consider for future hikes..... Put the
middle speed person in front and not the slowest. This has the faster walkers
slowing down and the slower hikers speeding up. Another item is proper weight
distribution. We try to make sure that no person carries more than 30% of
their body weight. If they can carry more, then they get more weight from the
Scouts/Scouters that need help. This situation is discussed with everyone so
decisions are made as a team.
Hope this helps you in your future outings....
YIS
Gary Veik
ASM - Troop 554, Littleton CO
Unit Commissioner - Denver Area Council
NSJ 1997 Nat'l Health & Safety
"I used to be a Bear. . . . "
