Info on Holy Grail Race for Webelos

Posted by Prescott on November 17, 2010

Word of the Quest for the Holy Grail Race on November 20th is getting out.  Lots of Webelos are planning on being there.

And we’re getting great questions.  So in an effort to get answers out, we’ll keep this post updated with current info.

• Where is the race?       Peaceful Valley Scout Ranch
• When does it start?      8am to 1pm on Nov. 20th
• What should we bring?     The race goes much of the day, so all Scouts and Webelos should have good clothing for any kind of weather.  It could be cold or even damp, so prepare.  It also goes across a long distance as the guys travel from challenge area to challenge area.  Good footwear is a good idea.  If its damp, shoes/boots that won’t get soggy are a great idea.  Always bring a full water bottle.  Water spigots will be shut off, so act like you are in the wilderness and bring at least one full canteen.  A daypack is often a good idea to carry extra clothes and water.
• What about food?       Eat breakfast before you come.  The event goes through lunch and so bring a sack lunch or snacks.  If you are staying for dinner, you may want some snacks to hold you over.  The guys will burn alot of calories at the race.
• Anything we shouldnt bring?       Electronics are not a good idea.  Ipod and cell phones for boys are out.  No signal for the phones anyway.  We have all the swords, medieval weapons, and sheath knives we need, so please dont bring them even if they are plastic.
• Should the Webelos be in costume?  No, not really.  Some of the race staff will be in costume, but we’d rather the boys have clothing that is prepared for being outdoors.
• What if it rains or snows?   That will depend on how much and whether it is actively doing it.  If we can, we’ll do the race in the snow.  But some elements, like the rope bridges get less safe when it is wet, so we will have to play it by ear.  If it does snow, come as though you are going sledding for the day - if the boys have shells and snow pants they will be much happier.
• Are Webelos welcome for dinner?:  Absolutely!  We would appreciate knowing how many will be coming, including family members, so we can plan for you.
• Should we bring a dish?:  No need.  We’ll be cooking more than a dozen turkeys in a big cooker and the Troop 16 Scouts will be making side dishes.  There should be plenty of food for everyone.
• How do Webelos fit into the Race?  When you arrive, your boys will be assembled into teams.  Generally, we keep boys who know each other together.  These teams are led by Troop 16  Scouts who we’ve handpicked for their Scouting ability and skill working with younger Scouts.  They will lead the team around the course, teaching, coaching, and encouraging.  These Webelos teams will be collecting treasures throughout the day as they complete challenges.  They’ll work map skills, Scout skills, and lots of just goofy fun stuff.   Parents are welcome to go along with them and enjoy the day.  Your sons will be in good hands.
• What do Parents do during the race?  Great question.  Parents are welcome to go around the course with their boys or hang out at Castle Arghh with a good book.  If you need to, you certainly can leave the Ranch (for errands or whatever), but we’d like to be sure there is at least one adult your boy knows on-site (e.g. fellow Den parent, Den Leader, Assistant Den Leader).   Bring a camera and a water bottle and sack lunch for yourself as well.
• More as other questions are asked and answered…..

Mr. Coleman