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Tips for SCOUTHIKE Patrol Leaders

 

  • Lightweight is the key. Those patrols carrying less weight around all weekend will have an advantage over those whose packs are overloaded, so make sure your patrol member's packs aren't too heavy. Check out the SCOUTHIKE Patrol Leader's Handbook for some guidelines or speak to your Scout Leader.

     
  • Make sure everyone in your patrol carries sufficient water and that your patrol menu is appropriate. You'd be surprised at how much of a difference this can make, if you and your patrol drink sufficient fluids and eat proper, balanced and nourishing hike meals.

    Your energy levels, alertness and enjoyment will be much greater, and your SCOUTHIKE competition scores will most likely benefit as a result.

     
  • The SCOUTHIKE Patrol Leader's Handbook is a great source of information and tips on doing well at SCOUTHIKE and having a great time. Make sure you and your Patrol read it, understand it, and use it.

    Adobe PDF DocumentClick here to download the Scouthike PL's Manual 196 KB ( 2011 Version )

     
  • Practice makes perfect. Ask your Scout Leader to set aside one or two Troop nights before SCOUTHIKE for you and your patrol to practice map reading, lightweight camping, and teamwork and initiative.

     
  • When it comes to the actual challenges and activities, the first thing to do is listen very carefully to all instructions given by the Leaders running the challenge. Always think before you act. When faced with a problem you need to solve, encourage your patrol members to participate in the problem-solving process; it takes more than one mind to come up with a great solution.

    If you are given a time limit, make sure that someone in your patrol with a watch is keeping an eye on how much time is left.

     
  • Know your Patrol members and know their strengths and weaknesses. If you know that Sam is particularly good at map reading whilst Tom can tie just about every knot in the book, you'll know who to call on in those situations.

    But remember to share the tasks around a bit so that every member of the Patrol has a chance to improve their skills.

     
  • Finally, make sure your Patrol stays together and works as a team.