The weekend to remember happened on Sept 2, 2011. As ten guys joined together for a time of fellowship and a challenge that most had yet seen in their lifetimes, they all showed true grit and stamina only bolstering a sense of accomplishment and need for more adventure.
We set out that fateful morning with guns and little more than what we could fit in our pockets. As the temperatures began to soar, the group began to really work up a sweat. When the trail came to an end, there was nothing better than to sink your feet into a muddy lake bottom and dunk your head underneath 65 deg water.
We lost one man on the way, and crowned another (young) man the victor of the Survival Challenge. Jonah Thorpe, the youngest in the group (12 yrs old), kept up his pace in the speed group and got to camp first. After making his shelter, cooling off in the lake , filtering water, and trying his hand at fishing, Jonah had all the wits and energy of a 12 yr old! He completed every challenge and did not disqualify himself from the prize. Jonah, congrats and I hope you join us again soon!
As for the rest of us softies, we had a few get sick. Everyone was wiped out from the heat and the hike, and almost everyone including the two event planners were disqualified either by "the temptress" (John F -aka. "Jezebel") or by illness. The only three contestants left the next morning were Danny, Jason, and Jonah. By unanimous vote, Jonah received the $25 Bass Pro gift card and bragging rights until the next challenge.
Sitting around at Chic-Fil-a the next morning, everyone voted that this challenge was eye opening and a blast. Everyone seems to be looking forward to the next challenge: Deep Winter Survival. Can't wait....
***CLICK HERE TO SEE THE GPX TRACK OF THE TRIP***
