Westmeath Scouts follow in Tom Crean’s footsteps at Phoenix Challenge
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Members of the Westmeath Scouts at the Castle Saunderson International Scout Centre in Cavan for the Scouting Ireland Phoenix Challenge 2026.Image 2 of 7
Members of the Westmeath Scouts at the Castle Saunderson International Scout Centre in Cavan for the Scouting Ireland Phoenix Challenge 2026.Image 3 of 7
Members of the Westmeath Scouts at the Castle Saunderson International Scout Centre in Cavan for the Scouting Ireland Phoenix Challenge 2026.Image 4 of 7
1st/10th Westmeath Mullingar, left, and 9th Westmeath Milltownpass, right.Image 5 of 7
Members of the Westmeath Scouts at the Castle Saunderson International Scout Centre in Cavan for the Scouting Ireland Phoenix Challenge 2026.Image 6 of 7
Members of the Westmeath Scouts at the Castle Saunderson International Scout Centre in Cavan for the Scouting Ireland Phoenix Challenge 2026.Image 7 of 7
Members of the Westmeath Scouts at the Castle Saunderson International Scout Centre in Cavan for the Scouting Ireland Phoenix Challenge 2026.Castle Saunderson International Scout Centre in Cavan welcomed hundreds of young people from across Ireland for Scouting Ireland’s Phoenix Challenge 2026, on August 13-16.
Among those that took part were Scouts from two Westmeath Scout Groups: the 1st/10th Westmeath Mullingar and the 9th Westmeath Milltownpass. The 16 young people from those groups put their skills, teamwork and leadership to the test over the four-day competition.
Both patrols were awarded silver, and Mullingar were received 'Spirit of Camp' recognition for their sub-camp.
The Phoenix Challenge theme this year was ‘Tom Crean and the Lost Journal’, inspired by the life and expeditions of Irish Antarctic explorer and the Scouts followed in his footsteps, undertaking challenges designed to develop teamwork, problem-solving, creativity and leadership while uncovering clues from a fictional lost expedition journal.
Scouting Ireland CEO, Seán Sheehan said the Phoenix Challenge showcases scouting at its best: “Young people from challenge themselves, work as teams and demonstrate the practical and leadership skills they have learned throughout the year.
“This year’s Tom Crean-inspired theme encouraged participants to embrace adventure, resilience and exploration, values that continue to inspire young people today.
“We were thrilled to welcome scouts from across the country to Castle Saunderson for what was another fantastic Phoenix Challenge.”
Over the four days, patrols constructed and managed their own campsites, participated in themed programmes and activities inspired by Crean’s expeditions, showcased their creativity during the Antarctic Trade Fair and took part in the traditional Phoenix Campfire.
The weekend concluded with the Trek Cart Race before the overall winners are announced at the closing ceremony.
In addition to testing practical outdoor skills, the Phoenix Challenge focuses on developing vital life skills including leadership, communication, planning, resilience and teamwork, while encouraging young people to build confidence and friendships in a supportive environment.