Dumela,
I can’t believe I’m already on blog #3. It’s crazy how slow and fast this experience has been so far. Only 3 weeks left until I am back home, which is both exciting and sad. I have gained a true appreciation for this beautiful country, and can’t wait to come back soon.
Adventure Time Challenge
I want to recap on July and the beginning of August, as we have been all over the place. Josh and I have been making great progress on our BLTAD project, but still have lots to do. We have put a lot of time and thought into each section to ensure it is as helpful and unique as possible. During the next 2 weeks we will be completing the final details and presenting to the BBA and BNOC. This last month has been hectic but also exciting as we are so close to our final draft. We are ready to show what we’ve created in hopes it will be very beneficial to the Botswana Badminton Association.
Chobe National Park
Travel wise, this past couple of weeks have been full of fun and adventure. At the beginning of July, Josh and I competed in the Adventure Time Challenge Race held at the Mokolodi Nature Reserve. This consisted of a 10km run, 2 15km mountain bike rides, and finishing with a 5km run. Teams were made up of 4 people. Although my team didn’t win a prize we still did awesome and had a great time. Next, we headed to Cape Town over one of the long weekends with our two friends from frisbee. We spent 5 days there climbing mountains, sitting on the beaches, touring around the coast, and eating great food. It was a super fun vacation, despite the 32 hours driving there and back. Last we popped up to Kasane this past weekend to explore Chobe National Park and Victoria Falls. A short trip packed with safaris, game drives, and boat cruises. Josh and I had a fantastic time, along with our friend Sean. It was a trip full of activities and great photographs.
Lions Head Mountain
Funnily enough, I met a man at a restaurant in Kasane who played badminton growing up and loved it. We had a great conversation about sport, competition, and what Kasane needs to keep people involved and excited about sport. He said it was disappointing to finish grade school and not have any outside badminton programs for adults. It made me realize why we are here, and the importance of our work with the BNOC. The promotion and development of the Long Term Athlete Development plan could potentially affect peoples lives all over Botswana. I’m proud of what we have accomplished, and am beyond excited to see what the BBA continues to do.
Chat soon for the final details of my trip to Botswana. Can’t wait to enjoy every last minute of it!
Cheers,
Aleia Robin