Youth conquer Maclear’s Beacon in 2024 Hiking Challenge finale
27 October 2024
The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department announced the successful conclusion of the Maclear’s Beacon Hiking Challenge 2024, which took place yesterday, Saturday 26 October. A total of 55 young participants from across the city, supported by 14 marshals and 17 Disaster Risk Management volunteers, completed the final hike to the summit of Maclear’s Beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain.
The hiking challenge is part of the Department’s Outdoor Adventure Programme, and trained participants over several Saturdays, encouraging youth to explore nature, build confidence and develop a deeper appreciation of Cape Town’s natural environment.
The final hike was a challenging test of physical endurance, as participants tackled one of the most intense routes on Table Mountain, while also engaging in teamwork and environmental education.
Throughout their training, participants learned essential hiking rules, practiced teamwork and engaged in educational activities that tested their knowledge of nature.
During yesterday’s hike, teams competed through a points system that rewarded them for keeping their snack pack litter, picking up litter along the route and correctly answering nature-based questions.
‘This hiking challenge goes beyond the physical feat of climbing Table Mountain. It’s about fostering a love for the outdoors, encouraging teamwork and teaching our youth the importance of taking care of the environment. We are immensely proud of all the participants and their dedication and we celebrate their incredible achievements,’ said Councillor Patricia van der Ross, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health
A prize ceremony followed the hike, celebrating the achievements of these determined young hikers.
First, second and third-place teams were awarded certificates and trophies, while all participants received medals as well as City-branded backpacks to prepare them for future outdoor adventures.
In first place was Taio Van Der Ross (14) and Malachi Zana (14) from Ottery; second place went to Tyrone Jackson (18) and Ebrahim Appels (17) from Westridge; and walking away in third place were Cole Jacobs (14) and Shaheed Abrahams (18) from Ottery.
‘We took part in every training hike, pushing ourselves each time. One of the most important lessons I learned was to stick with my partner, Malachi, and respect nature by not littering,’ said Taio.
‘I’d do it again in a heartbeat. I made new friends, had so much fun, and felt a real peace up on the mountain. Winning first place made all the effort worthwhile,” added Malachi.
‘The hike was a great experience, both going up and coming down. Some found it tough, while others completed it with flying colours. I learned that the key is to walk at your own pace—take your time, and you'll get there,’ said Nadeen Martin, 24, from Ottery, who participated as a marshal.
The Maclear’s Beacon Hiking Challenge has been a vital initiative in promoting outdoor recreation, environmental responsibility and personal development among Cape Town’s youth.
The City’s Recreation and Parks Department is dedicated to offering youth meaningful and active outdoor recreation opportunities that foster environmental awareness and nurture a lifelong passion for nature.
For more information about the Department's Outdoor Adventure Programme, please enquire at your local community or recreation centre.
Caption 1: Winners Malachi Zana and Taio Van Der Ross from Ottery, with Councillor Ronel Viljoen, Chairperson of the Community Services and Health Portfolio Committee.
Caption 2: Ethan Sardienne and Shaima Francis from Hanover Park enjoyed the hike.
Caption 3: Glad to be out in nature were from left: Chadwin Meyer, Dante Ontong, Sameer Abrahams, Ronaldo November, Chanden Dirks and Althino Gamba, all from Factreton.
Caption 4: The group after completion of the hike.
End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
