Challenge Trophy Camporee

Troop 122 completed in the 11th Challenge Trophy Camporee, Camp Cutler, Naples, New York. Arrival and setup on Friday was done by an early contingent of Scouts accompanied by Mr Stone and Scoutmaster Urban. The late arriving contingent assisted in completing the setup around 07:30PM. Thanks to Mr Homer supplying canopies, we had cover. This will become important as the Challenge progresses.

Waking Saturday morning Troop122 found 1in of newly fallen snow. The canopies were properly placed to cover our eating area. Breakfast was prepared. Nathaniel d ran the kitchen with different appointed helpers throughout the weekend.  Breakfast consisted of eggs,  and bacon. Bagels if anyone wanted them. Breakfast broke and we assembled for opening ceremonies.

Opening ceremonies identified the sub camps, red, blue burgandy, yellow, orange, green, purple, silver, and black & gold. This divided up the 1400 attending scouts into competitive groups. After opening ceremonies, a 2 mile hike was necessary to get to the main event grounds on the north side of Camp Cutler.

The hike was over the hill, marked path, while the precipitation continued, along with the snow and melting snow from the trees. The walk warmed us up from a unexpectedly cold morning, and snow.

The events covered many different activities. In the main dining hall, there was a HAM radio/CB live demonstration. Andrew R was interested in the Morse Code exhibit.

Joshua P looked on as Andrew explained how the device worked.

There was also a static display of Scouting memorabilia. Competitions of chess, shuttle board, and other skill and crafts gave ample opportunity for inside activity. Outside events such as archery,  air rifle, air rockets, soccer kick, and fauna identification were also options. After the event Lunch and off to afternoon events.

Volunteers were necessary. Scoutmaster Urban assisted Mr Redman with poison plant identification, and the plunger ball race. Activities also include bottle rocket, javelin and caper tossing, long distance soccer kick, rubber band target practice, and a task called the spider walk.

The day was topped off with Nathaniel d's chili. Everyone that ate it stated it was really good. The entire batch was eaten. There was discussion about a Troop122 cookbook, and this should be the first recipe.

Saturday night there was a campfire, smores, and talk of the day. Turning in, anticipating tomorrow. Saturday evening was just as cold, but with no snow.



Sunday morning presented a heavy frost. Nathaniel d and kitchen assitants prepared pancakes. Scouts ate preparing to leave.

As Troop122 finalize their packing, it was difficult to tell a campout was there. By spring, all the signs will be gone.