Exmoor Challenge Report

Last Saturday, four HZG teams took in the demanding Exmoor Challenge, a 16-mile timed self-navigation event set against the beautiful landscape of Exmoor. The event saw an impressive 127 junior teams competing, each required to work together to navigate the challenging terrain and reach the checkpoints within set time limits.

The day began in bright sunshine, providing ideal conditions for the early start. However, as the day progressed, the weather took a dramatic turn, finishing in heavy rain and testing the competitors both physically and mentally. Despite the changing conditions, every HZG team demonstrated outstanding resilience, determination, and adaptability — qualities that are at the heart of this event.

Throughout the day, teamwork and camaraderie were evident in abundance. The HZG children supported one another, communicated effectively, and maintained excellent timekeeping, ensuring great progress around the route. It was inspiring to see such a strong display of collaboration and positivity, even as conditions became more difficult.

All teams finished the challenge in high spirits, a testament to both their determination and their attitude. We are incredibly proud of all 16 children who represented us. Each one showed commitment, perseverance, and a willingness to push themselves, reflecting brilliantly on the group as a whole.

This event supports an important cause, raising money for Children’s Hospice South West. It is always wonderful to see everyone contributing to such a meaningful charity while taking part in the challenge.

A particularly outstanding achievement came from the girls’ team, who were winners of their category — hitting every checkpoint at precisely the right time and doing well with the challenging question sheet. However, all four teams can be very pleased with their results:

HZG Team 1 - Mixed team – 7th = (out of 67 teams)

HZG Team 2 - Mixed team - 15th (out of 67 teams)

HZG Team 3 - Boys team - 6th (out of 25 teams)

HZG Team 4 - Girls team 1st (out of 25 teams)

These excellent results are a reflection of their hard work and teamwork throughout the event.

Overall, the Exmoor Challenge was a brilliant team effort, with every participant embodying the HZG values through resilience, respect, teamwork, and determination. It was a memorable day, and one that everyone involved can look back on with pride.