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KNYSNA NEWS - A group of 24 boys and girls spent three days hiking through the forests and bush around Knysna, as part of an initiative co-organised by Hornlee-based community group, Crimefighters.
The hike is a means to raise awareness among the youth of Hornlee and Knysna of the dangers involved with getting entangled in a life of crime at a young age.
Championed by Crimefighters, the hikes are led by Denzil Rhode and involve the youth - aged 13 to 21 - traversing roughly 55km in just three days.
The hike is something special and dear to those who take part, with the initiative proving successful in years gone by, according to Crimefighters coordinator Lynn Kayster.
"These hikes have been running for a few years now and 90% of the youth who've participated have flourished and become highly successful young men and women," Kayster says.
For the hike, Rhode took the hikers on a journey that started at Sunridge Primary School on Friday 9 April. They made their way to Knoetzie for a night under the stars. The following day they hiked to Diepwalle, where they slept in a hut courtesy of SANparks and the Garden Route National Park. On the final day, they were up at 03:00 for their final trek - the journey back to town.
The group makes its way down Old Cape Road.
The hikers had to carry their own tents, food and all sorts of gear needed for the trip. During the hike they also took part in team-building activities such as role play and self-defence lessons.
The hike came to an end on Sunday 11 April, ending where it started - at Sunridge Primary.
The hikers were welcomed with open arms and cheers from proud parents and members of the community. They were each handed a certificate and rewarded with lunch and a cold drink sponsored by the Hornlee-based women's support group, Changes of Knysna.
"Without the help of Hero, Kilt, Changes of Knysna, Charl Laminie, Mr Havenga, Ms Springfield, Mrs Figland and Arthur Kayster, this wouldn't have been possible," Rhode said. "Each of you has made a big difference in these children's lives."
Ricardo Claasen returns to Sunridge Primary with a smile on his face and two backpacks. Photos: Blake Linder
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