Dartmoor's Ten Tors Takes Place This Weekend

© Sophie Hickson

The largest youth challenge in the UK will be held on Dartmoor during the weekend 7-8 May. On the annual Ten Tors event 2400 teenagers walk routes of 35, 45 and 55 miles in small self-sufficient teams. At the same time 400 less able young people will challenge themselves on shorter routes on Saturday's Jubilee Challenge.

Teens on last year's Ten Tors  © Sophie Hickson
Teens on last year's Ten Tors
© Sophie Hickson

Now well into its fifth decade, the Ten Tors is organised by the Army with help from the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force and the Dartmoor Rescue Group. Between them they oversee the participants to make sure that, in their words, 'none comes to lasting harm'.

Dartmoor National Park Authority works closely with organisers to ensure that the event has a minimal impact on the fabric of the moor and its wildlife. National Park Rangers and Voluntary Wardens will be on hand throughout the weekend to monitor and provide support.

Peter Harper, Chairman Dartmoor National Park Authority and Ten Tors Team leader for 20 years said:

'Dartmoor National Park Authority has for many years worked closely with the organisers, landowners and commoners to minimise the environmental impact of the Ten Tors challenge and to maximise the local economic benefits of event.' 

'Ten Tors and the associated Jubilee Challenge provide a unique opportunity for young people to experience Dartmoor’s special qualities and the challenge of the natural environment. The Authority also recognises that all the training beforehand, as well the event itself, can help foster a passion in young people to help look after this very special place.  I know from personal experience how challenging the six months of training and the event itself can be and it is a real pleasure to see the participants gain in confidence and team work grow during their training. It will be great to see the beaming smiles of all team members as they cross the Ten Tors finishing line, tired but very proud of what they have achieved. We wish all those taking part in Ten Tors and Jubilee Challenge 2016 the very best.'

The Met Office, who issue a bespoke Ten Tors forecast, is this year predicting a mixed bag of weather, but nothing too horrendous. See here


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