The Maclear’s Beacon Hiking Challenge 2024, held on Saturday, was a success, according to the City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department, Cape {town} Etc reports.
A total of 55 young people from throughout the city completed the final walk to the summit of Maclear’s Beacon, Table Mountain’s highest point, with the assistance of 14 marshals and 17 Disaster Risk Management volunteers. The hiking challenge is part of the Department’s Outdoor Adventure Programme, and participants were trained over several Saturdays, encouraging young people to explore nature, gain confidence and acquire a deeper respect for Cape Town’s natural environment.
The final walk was a strenuous test of physical endurance, with participants tackling one of Table Mountain’s most difficult paths while simultaneously participating in teamwork and environmental education.
Throughout their training, participants learnt basic hiking regulations, exercised teamwork and participated in educational exercises that assessed their understanding of nature. During Saturday’s walk, teams competed using a scoring system that awarded them for keeping their snack pack litter free, picking up litter along the way and properly answering nature-related questions.
‘This hiking challenge goes beyond the physical feat of climbing Table Mountain,’ said Patricia van der Ross, mayoral committee member for Community Services and Health.
‘It’s about fostering a love for the outdoors, encouraging teamwork and teaching our youth the importance of taking care of the environment. We are immensely proud of all the participants and their dedication and we celebrate their incredible achievements.’
A prize ceremony followed the hike, celebrating the achievements of these determined young hikers.
First, second and third-place teams were awarded certificates and trophies, while all participants received medals as well as City-branded backpacks to prepare them for future outdoor adventures.
In first place were Taio Van Der Ross (14) and Malachi Zana (14) from Ottery; second place went to Tyrone Jackson (18) and Ebrahim Appels (17) from Westridge; and walking away in third place were Cole Jacobs (14) and Shaheed Abrahams (18) from Ottery.
‘We took part in every training hike, pushing ourselves each time. One of the most important lessons I learned was to stick with my partner, Malachi, and respect nature by not littering,’ said Taio.
‘I’d do it again in a heartbeat. I made new friends, had so much fun, and felt a real peace up on the mountain. Winning first place made all the effort worthwhile,’ added Malachi.
‘The hike was a great experience, both going up and coming down. Some found it tough, while others completed it with flying colours. I learned that the key is to walk at your own pace—take your time, and you’ll get there,’ said Nadeen Martin (24) from Ottery, who participated as a marshal.
The Maclear’s Beacon Hiking Challenge has been a vital initiative in promoting outdoor recreation, environmental responsibility and personal development among Cape Town’s youth.
The City’s Recreation and Parks Department is dedicated to offering youth meaningful and active outdoor recreation opportunities that foster environmental awareness and nurture a lifelong passion for nature.
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Picture: City of Cape Town