The final event of our Pre-Service Training is the traditional marathon march through the bush. Most of the 35 trainees, 4 current PCVs, and 5 support staff started out at 8:30 am, under overcast skies with the temperature in the mid-70s.  All but 3, who dropped out mid-way,  finished the hike around 4 pm, and by then the temperature had risen into the low-90s. The actual distance completed was only 21 kilometers, or 13 miles, but it definitely felt like a marathon.

Most of the terrain was through level open areas, although there were a few spots that did feel like “bushwhacking”, and without our experienced guide it would have been easy to get lost. The most challenging were the mud flats and water crossings. After I received a strong arm to assist me, the mud flats were actually fun. The water crossings were very refreshing, and a welcome opportunity to cool off.

 

This marathon walk can be considered is an analogy for our upcoming 2 years of service. If we can complete the marathon march, through the Gambian bush, we can accomplish anything as a PCV in The Gambia.