Thousands of teenagers are gearing up for one of the UK's most grueling outdoor challenges, the Ten Tors 2026, after months of dedicated training through storms, snow, rain, and sunshine. This iconic Dartmoor event, running from May 8 to May 10, tests the mettle of participants aged 14 to 19, pushing their navigational skills, life skills, and above all, their resilience.

Colonel Jim Bird, the newly appointed director of Ten Tors, emphasizes the deep emotional connection many have with the event. "People hold it close to their heart," he says, stressing that months of advance training are crucial. The unpredictable weather on the moor is one of the biggest hurdles, making it what Bird calls an "arduous event."

For 14-year-old Plymouth College student Max, preparing for the 45-mile route, the biggest challenge is building up to the distance. Having completed the 35-mile route last year "for a bit of fun" with friends, he learned key skills he hasn't forgotten. But this year's training is "a lot more difficult," he admits. "The weather has been cold, wet, and damp—not fun when you're camping." To keep morale up, Max and his team rely on humor. "They're my best friends from school, so it's easy to talk to them and mess about while walking." The Plymouth College teams use a bunkhouse in Princetown for their Dartmoor training sessions.

The event sees teams of six navigating routes of 35, 45, or 55 miles—depending on their age—across the northern half of Dartmoor, visiting 10 nominated tors (checkpoints) in under two days. Organizers have also expanded the challenge to include the Jubilee Challenge, introduced in 1996, which offers routes closer to Okehampton camp for young people aged 14 to 21 with a range of challenging conditions. Additionally, the Granite Challenge—formerly the Jubilee Challenge Plus—caters to young adults with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) who are capable of completing routes suited to their abilities.

As these young athletes push their limits, they embody the spirit of endurance and teamwork. Whether you're a participant or a spectator, the right gear—from waterproof jackets to sturdy hiking boots—can make all the difference in conquering the elements and achieving your goals.