Adventure, learning and laugher: The Great Calgary Race

Today was one of our most exciting days yet here at Wynchemna, packed with learning, laughter, exploration, and unforgettable memories!

We started our morning at 9:00 AM with a delicious breakfast that gave us all the energy we needed for the busy day ahead. The kitchen served up perfectly cooked eggs and crispy bacon, along with creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and juicy, sweet peaches. Everyone left the dining area with full bellies and big smiles!

After breakfast, we jumped right into our first two lessons of the day. The students were focused and enthusiastic as they participated in activities designed to boost their English speaking and comprehension skills. There was lots of participation, laughter, and teamwork. It’s always amazing to see how much confidence the students gain even in a short time!

By lunchtime, we were more than ready to eat again—so we headed to the SAIT cafeteria. It was a great experience! With plenty of tasty options and a lively atmosphere, it felt like a mini field trip in itself. Everyone enjoyed the chance to eat together in a new setting.

After lunch, we had one more lesson in the classroom. This session focused on fluency practice, and we were so impressed by how much progress the students have already made. They spoke with greater ease and creativity, and even started using some new vocabulary from the morning lessons. Go team Wynchemna!

Then came one of the biggest highlights of the day: The Great Calgary Race! We divided into six competitive, enthusiastic teams and set off across the city on an exciting scavenger hunt-style adventure. Each group had a list of challenges and tasks to complete, ranging from silly photo ops to asking locals for directions or fun facts about Calgary. The energy was high and the laughs were nonstop!

It was amazing to see the students working together, thinking on their feet, and making new friends along the way. We even had the pleasure of chatting with some very kind and helpful Calgarians who cheered us on and helped us with some of our clues. It was a fantastic way to explore the city and bond as a group.

Once all the teams completed their race and regrouped, we made our way to a local Indian restaurant to celebrate with a well-deserved feast. The buffet was absolutely incredible! From rich curries to fluffy naan, flavorful rice dishes, and tasty vegetarian options, there was something for everyone to enjoy. We all left feeling happy and full—some of us even went back for seconds (and thirds!).

Back at camp, the fun didn’t stop. We spent the evening practicing for the upcoming Talent Show—a much-anticipated event where students get to show off their skills, creativity, and personalities. There was singing, dancing, magic tricks, and more, and we can’t wait to see the final performances!

To end the night, a group of students and leaders gathered for a quick but energetic game of basketball. It was the perfect way to wind down after such an action-packed day. By the time we all got to bed, everyone was tired but very happy, already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures.

This is what Wynchemna is all about—learning, growing, exploring, and having the time of our lives together.