After months of training, determination, and teamwork, the Bedminster Down 35-mile Ten Tors team has successfully completed the 2025 challenge on Dartmoor.
The team’s Ten Tors journey began back in November, with seven demanding training sessions across the winter and early spring. From freezing rain to unforgiving hills, the team trained in all weathers and over tough terrain to prepare for every challenge Dartmoor could throw at them. Each session built not only their physical strength and navigation skills, but also the resilience, independence, and camaraderie that are at the heart of Ten Tors.
Led by team captain Zach Hemming and guided by the expert navigation of Dylan Noel, the team showed true grit every step of the way. Ryan Taylor, Justin Cove, Dylan Richardson, and Ciaran Colleran all played vital roles, supporting one another and working together as a tight-knit unit through the ups and downs of training and the final expedition.
Over the Ten Tors weekend itself, they navigated 35 miles completely self-sufficiently, carrying all their kit, food, and water, and camping out overnight on the moor. The challenge is never easy, but the team rose to it with courage, maturity, and impressive teamwork. They were so determined that they recorded the second-fastest time a BDS team has ever achieved.
An honourable mention also goes to Lucas Bulley, our committed reserve, who trained hard with the team throughout and stood ready to step in.
This group of young people has truly embodied the spirit of Ten Tors: resilience, responsibility, and teamwork. Congratulations to the whole team—you’ve done yourselves and the school proud!
Congratulations and gratitude also need to go to the group of BDS staff members who gave up their time, energy, and weekends to support the young people through this extraordinary feat. Most notably Dave Bateman, the school’s Outdoor Education Lead, along with essential contributions from: Julie Churches, Matt Eagon, Ben Wills, Elena Davis, Jess Hamlin, Marie Solomon, Ben Johnson and Graham Knight.
Taking place on Dartmoor, Ten Tours occurs annually and is organised by the British Army’s Headquarters South West. Teams have to navigate routes across the northern half of Dartmoor in under two days. It is usually attempted by approximately 2,400 teenagers in 400 teams of six, with routes ranging between 35 and 55 miles (56-88 km).
