With our departure for Philmont just days away, our crew is in the final stages of preparation. The excitement is building as we double-check our gear, confirm bag weights, and ensure all health forms are in order. Every item—personal and crew—has been reviewed and packed with care.
June has flown by, packed with summer activities now that school is out. Austen has been busy attending two college soccer ID camps and mentoring younger players at his high school’s soccer camp. Despite the packed schedule, we squeezed in a final training hike at Comanche Park and held a virtual meeting Monday evening to review logistics and answer any last-minute questions. As always, a few essential items—like non-spray insect repellent—made their way onto the final shopping list.
Our travel plans are set. We will leave Thursday at 8:00 AM for Amarillo, spend the night, and continue to base camp in Cimarron on Friday. Once at Philmont, we will complete a gear shakedown with our Ranger, receive and distribute cooking gear and meals for the first few days, visit the gift store, and go through the check-in process. Each of us will carry about four liters of water and purification tablets, ready for the challenges ahead. The first days will involve plenty of “hurry up and wait” as we get settled and organized.
Saturday morning marks the true start of our trek as we are dropped off at the trailhead. From there, our adventure begins in earnest.
We are keeping a close eye on the weather—so far, conditions look favorable. True to the Scout motto, we are ready for anything: “Be Prepared!”
After months of training, the countdown is almost over. We are filled with both excitement and a few nerves as we set out on this adventure.
I look forward to documenting our journey, capturing both the challenges and the triumphs to share with you when we return.
Amaury
