Saints Trek - memories, community, friendship and hiking.

SAINTS TREK 2015

Memories, community, friendship and hiking. Saints’ trek was the most amazing experience that we were fortunate enough to go on.

We arrived at school at 6:30am on Sunday 16 August 2015 nervous, but excited, not knowing what to expect for the next 10 days. The first five days involved doing community service at a local rural school in Magoesbaskloof and we were privileged enough to stay at Stanford Lake College during this part of the Saints’ Trek where we got to know each other, laughed all evening and shared late night chocolates. During the five days of community service we built a jungle gym and playground area, planted a veggie garden, cleaned and painted the facilities, and cleaned up a nearby river. We all felt humbled to make a difference in these children’s lives. Seeing their smiles as we progressed made the experience even more worthwhile!

The nerves were kicking in as the hike drew closer. We set off for our five day hike with anticipation and very heavy backpacks... little did we know what lay ahead. Mountains, pain, laughter and some of the best memories we have ever made. When the hike got tough, we worked as a team to comfort and encourage each other. Whether we were holding hands while walking up the mountains, sharing sweets or singing at the top of our lungs, we were all there for one another. We were lucky enough to be the first group ever to do a rafting expedition on the fourth day of our hike. Wind, sun, rafts that weighed too much – we didn’t think we could do it. But with perseverance, lots of arm muscle and smiles on our faces we arrived at our final camp site. We ended off our last night on the hike with a sky full of stars and a surprise braai – much better than more two minute noodles! Saints’ trek had its ups and downs and stretched our comfort zones, but as a whole it was incredible, once in a lifetime experience.

By Gabriella Chapman and Kiara Stanek