Patrol Challenge history

The Patrol Challenge was created in 2003 by Paul Oliver, Scoutmaster of Troop 307 in the Balboa Oaks District. He wanted to find a different kind of event that would not only be fun, but would teach teamwork and leadership in the process. He incorporated his interest in puzzles and mysteries, along with his knowledge of Los Angeles and its surrounding areas with all its little-known, unique, and unusual locations.

He fashioned the event borrowing liberally from scavenger hunts, car rallies, and existing Scout activities. The event was an instant hit with his troop and enjoyed a return engagement the following year.

Good news travels fast, and so word of the event spread to Scoutmaster Jack Fishel of Troop 10, also in the Balboa Oaks District. Jack ran the event for his Troop with his own little twists and turns to keep it fresh. Another instant hit!

Realizing what a valuable tool they had created to teach all the aspects of the Scout Law under the cover of a fun challenging event, Paul and Jack decided to make the Patrol Challenge a district-wide event. After its successful district debut, the Patrol Challenge was promoted once again to become a council-wide event. It now includes all Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts within the Western Los Angeles County Council area (Santa Monica to the Kern County line) and all of Ventura County.

Word once again spread to Scouting Magazine, who dispatched a reporter and photographer for a feature article in the September 2005 issue, With an offer to share the rules and clues for free with any Scout unit, district, or council. The event has since been copied in locations throughout the United States.