This year celebrates 60 years of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and to support fundraising for the Award, members of the public – whether they have been a participant at Bronze, Silver or Gold level in the past or not – are invited to take up their own Diamond Challenge.
Those taking part in the Diamond Challenge include The Countess of Wessex, who will cycle from the Palace of Holyrood House in Edinburgh to Buckingham Palace, London next month – a total of 445 miles over 7 days.
On the Island a number of leaders and supporters have already completed, or are about to complete, their challenges. Islanders are being invited to join in and support this charity which over the last 60 years has introduced and supported millions of young people across the globe, from all backgrounds and circumstances, to give it their all. The DofE leaves a footprint on their lives, as their Award opens doors to new jobs, cements life-long friendships, broadens interests and stretches horizons.
4 supporters have recently undertook the Diamond Paddle Challenge to coincide with AAM Cowes Week 2016.
The paddlers were Carol Taverner, DofE Facilitator for the IW; Kevin Dennis, technical advisor for DofE outdoor activities on the Island; Peter Farmer, youth worker for West Berkshire and Helen Parry, National Trust warden for Newtown.
Although the original plan was to paddle around the Island, due to tides and other conditions the team undertook a slightly difference challenge, completing a total of 66 miles in 4 days.
Day 1 – Gurnard through the Needles to Freshwater Bay
Day 2 – Gurnard, east to Bembridge, then Culver to Yaverland but strong winds on the south of the island prevented them from continuing
Day 3 – Freshwater to Brook Bay in morning, then rough weather caused the group to be transferred back to Yaverland in the afternoon to paddle across the Bay to Shanklin
Day 4 – Brook Bay around St. Catherine’s Point to Ventnor and finish at Shanklin
Unfortunately, Helen was unable to complete the final day due to a foot injury.
Carol Taverner said:
“All the coastline was paddled, but due to strong winds we were unable to complete a continuous journey in the same direction. It was a very challenging journey due to the weather conditions but well worthwhile”.
Kevin will now go on to complete 60 miles cycling, and 60 miles walking to complete his Diamond challenge. All monies raised go towards helping disadvantaged young people access the DofE Award. If anyone wishes to donate retrospectively, head to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Round-the-island-paddle2016.
In addition to some members of the Isle of Wight DofE Committee (IOWDECA) undertaking Diamond Challenges, all the committee are planning events for the Island’s participants. These will take place over the next few months and include the painting of a Mural; a weekend Camp which will include a cookery competition judged by a well known chef; a Spider Walk and a Murder Mystery evening.
Featured photo: Suzanne Whitewood/DofE
