CACTUS - The Combined Adolescent Challenge Training Unit

While their peers sleep, our local CACTUS participants hit the Queen Charlotte College gymnasium for a grueling 8 week training. Three days a week over this period where they meet to face the challenge of lifetime. 

This successful programme has been initiated by Police in Marlborough since 2006.

However, without the generosity of sponsors Marlborough Lines, Marlborough District Council Youth Fund and the dedicated team of volunteers who give up their personal time and energy, this initiative would cease.  Aaron Waters, who has newly stepped into the role, as facilitator of the programme alongside Gannon Karena, Personal Trainer. 

A previous participant (age 16) commented "Other people think we're just doing fitness, but it prepares you for life, because you have to do these things as an adult. Get up early for work, study, stay up late.  The people here actually make me want to come three days a week and get up at 4am. You look out for each other. We're like family. You have to experience it to know"

SPOKEN ORDERS FROM THE 6AM TRAINING

"Stand attention for 3 minutes,shoulders right back!DO NOT MOVE!Any single movement?Press-Ups.CACTUS is about earning.Not here to tick boxes.If any of your teachers reports any misbehavior ..3 strikes you are OUT."Why have you signed up for CACTUS?  Its a privilege! 1MIN" he informs.DON'T EVEN FIDGET!1 1/2 MINS!You could hear a pin drop..the silence is deafening.2 1/2 MINS!Warm up, on the red line.5 sprints, then 5 press ups.Whistle, start stop and freeze!FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS FULLY.If the instructions are not adhered to then back to zero..they start again."

A parched participant stopped to hydrate.  They start again. Flustered, ruddy faces, heavy breathing..They know that if one fails, all fail.

The purpose is teaching youth the importance of team work, following instruction to the letter.  Togetherness - they are only as fit as their least fit.  It is not a competition. Team work. Support each other. 

River McLaren was the youth volunteer for the 8 week course. As a student at QCC, he completed the course and first hand credits it for turning his life around. He is successfully climbing the ladder in his chosen career, Boxing.  

"If you are doing it hard, and still doing it?..You are winning ~ Sarah (support coach)

Clive Godsiff and Amy Cragg help with the breakfasts. Other staff including David Collins from Queen Charlotte College assist where they can. 

Dylan Endersby (a student at QCC and participant of C.A.C.T.U.S  three times so far) wrote to me on request, at the end of week three. 

"After 2 yrs without C.A.C.T.U.S, I was eager to jump back in. Upon my first session back it seemed easier than I remembered.  After 20 minutes and almost fainting, I was quickly reminded what I was in for. This volunteered run course, builds so much character. The bond of the group is so amazing to see. I wouldn't get up at 5.30am, 3 mornings a week for most things, but I get so much out of it.  After every session, I feel on top of the world, and I hope the course continues for many years to come"

The eight week grueling challenge, tests the participants to the limit and beyond. It is modeled somewhat, on military principles. They are trained hard, for the purpose of physical and mental strength, all leading up to 'The Longest Day" finale. 

CLICK HERE - The Longest Day Finale <<< Short video of the last three challenges accomplished by 2022 CACTUS participants. 

Sarah, Aaron(Facilitator) and Frank (absent Gannon Karena)

Warming up with showers, after the grand finale SPLASH, SWIM, JUMP each were asked how they were feeling, and if they'd like to share what they gained from completing the eight week course.

All said they felt tired, exhausted, hungry. Many shared that they felt accomplished, inspired and ready to take on leadership roles, including mentoring other students at school. Others commented on the bond formed between each other. All were thankful for the opportunity and would recommend it to others. 

 CLICK HERE The Big Splash  <<< Slideshow of students diving/jumping from the platform

Picton Yacht Club

Prizegiving was held at the Yacht Club at Shelley Beach after their showers. Some family and support people made up the audience.  Some of the dignitaries included Betty Whyte (Principal), Our local Constable and Sargeants, Marlborough Lines Sponsors, Rebeca Clifton, Deputy Mayor, Nadine Taylor.

Trainer Gannon Karena shakes Milly Pickles hand at prizegiving.

Lunch was provided to a hungry, well deserving group of accomplished, future leaders. 

All will sleep well tonight. 

We are mighty proud of each of you.  

The Shugar Tipu Memorial cup was awarded to Mason Larrington, the Determination and Spirit Cup awarded to Rheana Robertsbull. 

It has been a privilege to witness a small part of the experience.