YOUNG PEOPLE TACKLE MOURNE MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE CHALLENGE

On Saturday 21 April 2018 the successful Mourne Mountain Adventure returned for its 7th year with up to 400 young people aged between 12 and 18 taking on the challenging task of navigating their way across one of two predetermined routes from Donard Park in Newcastle to the Silent Valley.

Established as a multi-agency partnership initiative involving South Eastern Regional College (SERC), Newry, Mourne and Down PCSP, NIFRS, PSNI, RFCA, MOD and NI Water, its aim is to engage with young people and divert them from anti-social behaviour, while at the same time showcasing the mountains.

This year was the first time South Eastern Regional College (SERC) has been involved with the event, helping to organise teams and activities. Donning high-vis vests, enthusiastic volunteers from SERC were on hand throughout the day to help organise the teams and assist with stewarding. Students were also available to help and advise participants on how to cool down and rehydrate after the challenge.  

Setting out in teams of four-six, the young people had the choice of two routes including the Challenge or the Expedition route. The 3-5-hour Challenge route was designed for individuals who had limited experience of mountain climbing while the Expedition route was for those who were more familiar with trekking through the mountains and took approximately 6-7 hours to complete.  

Team SERC was led by Petra Armstrong from the Public Services course at the college.

The challenge gave young people the opportunity to engage in risk-taking adventure by navigating their way through the Mourne Mountains, completing several demanding tasks whilst on the mountains.

When they arrived at Silent Valley, the teams were treated to a barbeque lunch and a range of fun activities including archery, laser shooting, a climbing wall, an inflatable bungee run as well as a Viking Village display, complete with axe wielding and head throwing. To recognise their hard work, the young people were awarded certificates and medals.

  SERC principal and chief executive Ken Webb said “SERC is delighted to be involved in this multi-agency partnership. The event was a great opportunity for young people to participate in an exciting, challenging and rewarding community event. For the volunteers, it’s a fun way to help nurture skills such as team working, decision making, co-ordination, leadership and communication which will look great on their CV. The event gives everyone in the community a great excuse to get outdoors and see for themselves the natural beauty on offer on their doorstep.”