On Wednesday we changed things up here at camp. Tuesday we asked the campers to decide if they would like to climb Old Rag Mountain or enjoy the World Cup game - USA vs. Algeria and then tackle Woodberry's Perimeter Trail. About 100 campers and staff members chose to conquer the mountain and the remaining chose to stay on campus for the game and perimeter trail hike. What a great game by the way....
As soon as the World Cup game was over they headed out with their sack lunches for a six mile jaunt on our beautiful trail that runs the perimeter of the Woodberry property. It also runs along the river in most areas. Yesterday the air was hot and heavy, so this hike was quite an undertaking. Our trail was recently completed and open to all who wish to walk, run or ride their bike on it. You can't take any old bike though.... It only accomodates the most daring moutain bikers. Coach Ben Hale, english teacher and cross country coach at WFS headed up the group responsible for forging this trail. There are bridges that cross over creeks and trees that had to be trimmed in order to make this trail passable. There are also plenty of places to hop into the water for a refresher if needed. The boys weren't allowed to yesterday though.. .With the storms the night before the water was running rather quickly - not to mention it was completely muddy!
The other group headed out on the buses at around 8:45am. Their destination - Shenandoah National Park...Here they began their quest to reach the top of Old Rag. Old Rag Mountain is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is situated in the park. The drive is just about an hour away from Woodberry. Old Rag is a very challenging 8.8 mile hike and rock scramble with spectacular views. At the summit it sits at 3,291 feet.
Mr. Paul Vickers, a chemistry teacher here at Woodberry led the group on this exciting excursion. He also heads up the Outdoor Programs offered to WFS students during the school year. These programs include hiking and kayaking. We truly appreciate Mr. Vicker's assistance yesterday.
Each camper was asked to pack four bottles of water and their sack lunch. "4 Bottles!", the campers complained... It did add a little extra weight, but staying hydrated was a big concern yesterday. Much to our delight, the temperature even at the base of the mountain was much cooler than back on campus. The group scurried right up the mountain with no problem. For some this has become an annual challenge.
We're very proud of each of our groups and what they accomplished yesterday. After a much needed rest period, we all met up at dinner and then it was time for the evening games. Amazingly, there was a lot of energy and agressive competition last night. It just goes to show, if you set the bar high, they will reach it!
Last nights game results:
Basketball
Duke - 36 LSU - 18
Football
Texas - 19 Miami - 7
Hockey
UNC - 5 Penn State - 4 OT
Lacrosse
Virginia - 4 Michigan - 2
Soccer
Notre Dame - 4 Ohio State -3
Softball
Texas AM - 9 Stanford - 5
