Ten Tors Challenge – May 2018

The Ten Tors challenge is a grueling, yet life-changing event held annually at the Dartmoor National Park, where participants walk either 35, 45, or 55 miles, depending on their age group, through treacherous terrain with steep hills (called tors), rugged paths, and unpredictable weather conditions. The event is a true test of physical and mental endurance, requiring participants to pass through specific checkpoints spread across the national park, while managing everything from navigation to survival on the way.

For many, it begins on a Saturday morning at 7:00 AM, with the challenge lasting until 5:00 PM the next day. Each team consists of six members, and every member is equipped with two tents, Trangias for cooking, first aid kits, maps, compasses, high-visibility jackets, and emergency shelters. Along with the essential team supplies, each person also carries their personal kit, including spare clothes, food, and plenty of determination.

Samarth’s Reflection:

For Samarth, the Ten Tors challenge wasn’t just about completing the miles; it was about pushing his limits. The challenge, while wet and muddy, presented a unique opportunity for self-growth. “During the drive home, your parents will ask if you want to do it again next year and you’ll just laugh and say ‘Anyone who wants to do this again must be crazy!’. Yet, after a good night’s sleep, you realize it’s been life-changing,” Samarth shared. His personal take was that the experience was more than just completing the challenge; it was about proving to himself that he could push harder. “I didn’t push myself hard enough, and I want another go,” he added, inspired by seeing his older friends finish the challenge quicker and eager to do better next time.

Saahithya Aroori’s Insight:

Saahithya Aroori’s experience on Ten Tors was all about realising her inner strength. Initially, only 60 girls had signed up, but by the end of the challenge, only 20 remained. Saahithya reflects on this, saying, “Every single girl who made it that far had put in so much work and effort into continuing, and I am incredibly proud of every single one of my classmates who managed that.” For her, it was a true test of perseverance, and the camaraderie she shared with her peers made it even more meaningful.

Bhumika Sinha’s Story:

Bhumika Sinha recalls her journey with a mixture of joy, nostalgia, and excitement. The challenge pushed her to work together as a team, navigate tricky bogs, and overcome various weather conditions, including a lightning storm that turned a sunny day into a wild experience. “I’ve made quite the memory collection—from using teamwork to try and escape a bog up to our knees to seeing a sunny day turn into a lightning storm! Personally, experiencing it all with friends, old and new, made it extra special. Laughing together, feeling tired together, and experiencing new things together was the highlight,” Bhumika shared. Her memories were not just of the challenge itself, but also the sense of unity and friendship that made the event unforgettable. “We even heard a couple of cuckoo birds and saw a stag parading into the forest! Overall, this experience, filled with friendship, laughs, and teamwork, is something special I’ll never forget.”

A Team Effort:

The Ten Tors challenge is as much about teamwork as it is about individual achievement. Each member must rely on one another to navigate the tough terrain, set up camp, and ensure the team completes their challenge successfully. As Bhumika noted, the experience was made even more rewarding through shared moments of laughter, struggle, and triumph.

In the end, the experience at Ten Tors is something that stays with you long after the event is over. The trials faced, the teamwork required, and the beautiful but unforgiving Dartmoor landscape provide participants with lessons that last a lifetime. Whether it’s the strength you discover within yourself or the bonds you form with others, the Ten Tors challenge is an adventure like no other.