TEAM FROM SPUTNIK ESU WIN EDINBURGH CHASE
text of article submitted to local press.
21 May 2009
A team of Explorer Scouts from the Sputnik Unit based at
Windmill Hill, Gravesend were awarded first place in the junior
section of this Challenge Hike at a presentation at Wilmington
Grammar School last Friday.
Edinburgh Chase is an annual 15 to 20 mile overnight navigation
exercise organised by the Dartford Duke of Edinburgh's award
forum and whilst the event is primarily for young people, there is
also a well supported veterans class for those aged 18 plus.
This years event was held in early May over a circular route
starting from West Kingsdown. Over 90 teams started the course
and just over 70 completed. The entry included three Explorer
Scout teams from Gravesham. The team from Kipling Unit, based
at Painters Ash came fourth in the senior class out of 36 starters.
One of the two junior teams from Sputnik did not complete the
whole course, but the other team, consisting of C. Kennedy,
H. Johnston, J. Salisbury-Jones and E. Moesli finished in first
spot in a time of 4 hours 56 minutes and ahead of 31 other teams
from all over north Kent.
The leader of Sputnik Explorer Scouts said "this was a fantastic
achievement as this was the first time our Unit had entered this
competition and we were on a steep learning curve. However,
our navigation training and the stamina of the team pulled them
through in a really fast time and they were elated to get a win
on their first attempt".
D Moesli (Team Manager).
