Rumor had it that several Capilano Commandos had been taken prisoner, never to be heard from again. Rumor had it that given the hostile environment, there would be no one brave enough to attempt such a physically-demanding and dangerous mission ever again.
Don't always believe the rumor mill! In fact, much planning went into devising a new route through the Forbidden Forest during 2007 that promised less likelihood of being captured. Several scouting missions were undertaken during the summer and fall to map alternative routes and to test the defenses of the defenders of the Forbidden Forest.
I have been informed by sources close to the Capilano Commandos that a foray into the Forbidden Forest Run was recently undertaken in
stealth mode by an elite team of 3 veterans and one experienced newbie. In contrast to previous missions, this one was undertaken in broad daylight.
The Capilano Commandos are claiming an overwhelming success. Apparently, the route qualifies as an "ultra" and that it is considerably more difficult, but also less confrontational than previous routes. All Commandos are claiming "first bagger rights" for running a course that has never been run before.
Being captured was not an option! Special attention was given to making sure that any reflective labels were covered by black duct tape in case helicopters with searchlights or defenders with night vision goggles were called in to give chase. The Commandos dressed in black and carried enough emergency equipment and rations to survive for weeks in the wilderness if confronted by the defenders of the Forbidden Forest.
The majority of the route was covered in snow when the mission was attempted. This slowed the Commandos down somewhat, but did not discourage them. Traces of the the defenders of the Forbidden Forest could be clearly identified in the snow, but approaching vehicles were only heard once and were not spotted at all.
The mission was not without danger and surprise, however. An elk and 2 grouse startled the Commandos as darkness blanked the valley. All Commandos got soakers and dirty shoes in the quicksand... a trap that must have been installed since the last scouting foray. One Commando fell on the ice, but was saved from harm by his fat ass. The same experienced veteran twisted his ankle on the flats near the finish and was assisted to the medical tent by his comrades where he was quickly revived with popcorn and oatmeal stout.
Rumour has it that the next mission throught the Forbidden Forest will be in the summer of 2008. All are welcome to volunteer for the mission. Given the sensitive nature of the mission, however, only those who have signed up to volunteer will be notified of the date. Note: In order to limit the numbers of the Capilano Commandos, new recruits may be subjected to a severe hazing!
The Midnight Rambler
Comments
Sounds like a blast. How is
Bear Bait
This is a bike-friendly mission...at least in the eyes of the Capilano Commandos. The role of the biker is very key to ths success of the mission, as the bikers act as scouts for the footsoldiers who follow.
I am aware of three (3) bikers who have attempted the "old" course on two separate missions. Two were captured by the keepers of the Forbidden Forest. There were no bike scouts present during the most recent forray into the Forbidden Forest as snow and ice covered the 45-odd kilometer route.
To volunteer as a prospective bike scout, please complete the application form and bring your MasterCard to the hazing ceremony as it may be required if the selection committee is thirsty.