They Went. They Conquered!
Team Diabetes fourth “Conquer” event has proven to be just as successful as the first three! Our second trip to Costa Rica in as many years challenged everyone to dig in and use every ounce of energy they had to meet their own goals and to “Conquer the Volcano”.
Before they could even hit the trailhead they had to fundraise and by the results, it’s evident they took their fundraising as seriously as their training. The team of 29 raised an incredible $228,000! From individual donations to special events and everything in between, our team members left no rock unturned when it came to raising funds for a cause that is so important to them, their friends and their family members.
While raising the funds, they also had a rigorous, 4 month training program to follow provided by our hike partner The Walking Connection. If they were going to conquer the technical trails of Rincon de la Vieja, they needed to be well prepared. Those from the flatter areas of our great country had to get a bit more creative with their training and utilize stairs and gym equipment, but it worked. All were a bit sore and tired by the end of the hike but the training paid off – they Conquered the Volcano!
Led by professional guides, the team members not only pushed themselves physically on the trail but they also had the opportunity to learn about the abundant flora and fauna of Costa Rica. Although it occupies only 0.25% of the world’s landmass, it contains an incredible 5% of the world’s biodiversity! To ensure it stays that way, Costa Rica has made a commitment to environmental sustainability that makes it a top eco-adventure destination.
Post hike, they were able to soothe their aching muscles in the various pools at the beautiful Borinquen Resort where the team stayed during their Team Diabetes adventure. Nestled on lush grounds that abound with lizards, colourful indigenous plants and even some Howler monkeys, the team members were able to enjoy the diversity of the Guanacaste province even off the trail.
The team was made up of both new comers to the program and seasoned alumni. One such alumnus was journalist Nick Lees who also participated in Easter Island in 2009 and Rio de Janeiro in 2010. Read about his Conquer the Volcano adventure here
Check out some team photos (more coming soon!) as well as this video created by Gene Taylor of The Walking Connection!
Next year we will be Conquering Iceland! The Reykjavik marathon has been so popular with walkers and runners over the years that we decided to add a hike option. Iceland is a great destination for those who want to trade in their running shoes for hiking boots due to its dramatic landscapes and wide variety of terrain. Stay tuned for more details on this exciting adventure.
For more information on how you too can make an impact with Team Diabetes, please visit our website at www.teamdiabetes.ca.