Ten Tors
What is the Ten Tors Challenge?
The annual Ten Tors Challenge was first conceived in the late 50s by three army officers and takes place on the rugged terrain of Dartmoor. It is organised and run by the British Army and provides a test of endurance, navigation, teamwork, leadership and survival skills for 2400 young people between the ages of 14 and 19 years.
Over the course of two days (34 hours), teams of six are required to negotiate and navigate their way around one of 26 designated routes across Dartmoor, with checkpoints at 10 nominated Tors. The course of the route is not made public until 10am on the day before they set off.
Depending on their age, teams cover distances of either 35 miles (14-15 years old), 45 miles (16-17 years old), or 55 miles (17-19years old) with the added challenge of having to carry with them all of their kit - including food, clothing, tents, sleeping bags, stoves, fuel, navigation equipment, maps, emergency rations and a first aid kit – weighing in at approximately 25kg!
There is also the added dimension of the weather to contend with. Despite being held in May every year, the weather can be variable. Some years have seen unprecedented torrential rain, sleet and even snow, whereas other years (such as 2011 when 13 teams dropped out) have seen participants struggle with heat exhaustion. Safety of all participants, however, is paramount. All teams have their equipment thoroughly checked the day before the event in a process known as ‘scrutineering’. In addition, the organisers have been known to call the event off as a result of adverse weather conditions.
Nevertheless, it goes without saying, Ten Tors is not an event that students can just pitch up and take part in on the day. Completing the challenge takes determination, teamwork, fitness and months of training; only those students who meet the mark are selected as team members.
Over the course of two days (34 hours), teams of six are required to negotiate and navigate their way around one of 26 designated routes across Dartmoor, with checkpoints at 10 nominated Tors. The course of the route is not made public until 10am on the day before they set off.
Depending on their age, teams cover distances of either 35 miles (14-15 years old), 45 miles (16-17 years old), or 55 miles (17-19years old) with the added challenge of having to carry with them all of their kit - including food, clothing, tents, sleeping bags, stoves, fuel, navigation equipment, maps, emergency rations and a first aid kit – weighing in at approximately 25kg!
There is also the added dimension of the weather to contend with. Despite being held in May every year, the weather can be variable. Some years have seen unprecedented torrential rain, sleet and even snow, whereas other years (such as 2011 when 13 teams dropped out) have seen participants struggle with heat exhaustion. Safety of all participants, however, is paramount. All teams have their equipment thoroughly checked the day before the event in a process known as ‘scrutineering’. In addition, the organisers have been known to call the event off as a result of adverse weather conditions.
Nevertheless, it goes without saying, Ten Tors is not an event that students can just pitch up and take part in on the day. Completing the challenge takes determination, teamwork, fitness and months of training; only those students who meet the mark are selected as team members.
Who Can Take Part?
Any student in Year 9 or above can get involved and should speak to Inclusion Manager Ms King in the first instance. Even those who are not selected to take part in the final challenge will benefit from taking part in the Ten Tors training programme. Students learn new skills, improve fitness levels and have lots of fun along the way. In addition, the College can help with the provision of some of the required equipment. Students must be prepared to attend the training walks, attend the weekly meetings, attend training sessions, be physically fit and be a good team member.
You can find out more information about the Ten Tors challenge on the official Ten Tors Website.
Any parents/friends of the College who would like to join us on the walks should please contact Ms King at the College.
You can find out more information about the Ten Tors challenge on the official Ten Tors Website.
Any parents/friends of the College who would like to join us on the walks should please contact Ms King at the College.
Reminder for those taking part that discounts are available.
https://www.tentors.org.uk/
https://www.tentors.org.uk/services/partners
https://www.tentors.org.uk/
https://www.tentors.org.uk/services/partners
