The Latest
12 British youths complete Sinai desert crossing
Published on July 25, 2008
12 British Youths have today successfully completed the 2nd crossing of the Sinai Desert in Egypt. The Expedition took 14 day in temperatures reaching the 50's daily. The youngest, Mackenzie Dyer, a 12 year old boy from Woking in Surrey is the youngest ever to cross the Sinai desert. The 150 km walk was a huge effort for him as well as all the others aged between 13 and 22.
The group were raising money for the charity Jigsaw4u which helps children and young people who have been bereaved or experienced loss or trauma and also provides family support. Many of the 12 have been bereaved and received support from Jigsaw4u
Youth Expedition Sinai is now firmly established in the calendar and is one of the toughest foot treks, if not the toughest, for youths. It takes place in July primarily for school reasons but it also means the participants endure incredibly harsh conditions that only a desert can throw at you. All of the young explorers were jubilant when they hit the road north of Dahab but they are also exhausted.
They celebrated their last night in the desert with their Bedouin guides who are also in awe of their achievements. "No one normally travels the desert at this time of year and we were proud to be part of the expedition. They are tough kids" said one of their leaders through translators.
"The desert is a special place", says expedition leader Mark Gillett. It allows the youths "unwritten space" to just be. no expectations, just to be.. I am so proud of their achievements and as last year this will be logged at the Royal Geographical society.
Anne Davies, Chief Executive of Jigsaw4u expressed her pride in the achievements of the young people and looks forward to welcoming them back with a series of receptions and events.
Participants arrive home on 23rd July.
The 3rd expedition will take place in July 2009.
