Epically Elaborate Eco-Challenge

27 September 2023Indira S, Allard ‘24

Orange and teal paint is smeared across the ruthless faces of Rogers & Allard Houses. Mobs of yellow and green come flooding down to Campbell Common. Alexandra & Whittall strode down with their purple and red house flags. The pink and blue colors emerge, taking center stage at the amphitheater. 

Interhouse competitions are beloved by all blissful Brentwood students and it showed through the passionate participation during Eco-Challenge. As the first interhouse event that kicks off the year, it is also the most widely attended. 

Two months is a short summer holiday but it’s a shock for Brentwood students who spend every waking minute together for the other 10 months of the year. As Ms Ramsay would say about Eco-Challenge, “It brings in the old and blends with the new students coming to campus for the first time.” Jubilation and exhilaration buzz through the bodies of students; a unique atmosphere is cultivated through the high anticipation and energy. 

Eco-Challenge has been running for 20 years. It was started by Mr Norman who teaches math and runs the Outdoor Pursuits Program. By day he’s in a classroom – and by mid afternoon he’s in a kayak or on a trail. 

The inspiration for Eco-Challenge came from the realization of the skill level and agility that is involved in various outdoor activities and sports. Mr Norman wanted to start the event as a tribute to students to showcase the sports that take place during outdoor pursuits. 

Although Alexandra and Whittall House won Eco-Challenge this year, one of the 

Rogers House Interhouse captains, Alvin F ‘24 added “I love Eco-Challenge because it broadens my skill set and also challenges me while offering a more unique take on Interhouse competitions.” There are more upcoming interhouse competitions in the fall such as airband, basketball, and volleyball. 

Climbing, paddle boarding, double kayak, running, canoeing, swimming, portaging, shelter construction, single kayaking, and lastly the youngest person from each house rings a bell, are all of the events that take place during Eco-Challenge. 

These activities are no walk in the park. Running with a 25 pound weighted backpack and carrying a canoe above your head will definitely break a sweat. While not everyone can be fit and agile to carry out the tasks to perfection, Mr Norman enjoys “seeing students who are good at what they do, making a difference for their team.” 

Indira S, Allard ‘24