Cape Town: The Recreation and Parks Department has successfully concluded the 2nd annual Maclear’s Beacon Hiking Challenge, held on Saturday Oct 25, 2025. It was an initiative that formed part of the broader youth development programme of the department through outdoor adventures.
Reportedly, the event saw 68 young participants to complete the challenge, which is supported by five Disaster Risk Management volunteers. To qualify for the Maclear’s Beacon Hiking Challenge, the participants were required to complete at least one training hike in the lead-up to the finale.
Many of the participants chose to go beyond the minimum requirement by participating in multiple hikes to further prepare and improve their endurance. Ones who achieved the fastest time were recognised and hikers who demonstrated excellent discipline by strictly adhering to mountain safety and environmental rules were honoured.
It is an exciting youth-focused initiative that promotes healthy lifestyle, teamwork and connection to nature, while offering positive alternatives that help in keeping young people away from gangs and crime.
Considering this, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham said that this initiative is about more than fitness and it’s about building confidence, teamwork and leadership among the youth.
By creating spaces where young people feel supported and connected, they are helping them in making positive choices about their futures. Well done to all the participants and the team who supported them.
However, the hike was followed by a prize ceremony to celebrate the achievement of the determined hikers. The winners received city-branded tog bags, smartwatches and power banks, while all participants were recognised with medals for their dedication and participation. The hike saw three categories of winners which constituted male teams, female teams and mixed teams.
Considering this, Councillor Francine Higham said that the challenge instils valuable life skills such as resilience, cooperation and discipline, while encouraging participants to take pride in their accomplishments.
Notably, the youth hiking programme is one of the several city-led initiatives that connect young people to positive recreation and mentorship opportunities. Through the promotion of physical activity and connection to nature, the City of Cape Town continues to expand access to structured, supportive activities that strengthen social cohesion and help in preventing youth involvement in antisocial behaviour.