David Meto

Known As:  Meto 
 
Likes:  Football and most sports  

Dislikes: Negativity, heights and muddy trails!  
 
Acorn journey   

One morning, I received a call from Okoe, and after our usual catch-up, he shared with me details about a walking group he had recently joined, which included a few guys, some of whom I already knew.

Having been accustomed to local walks in my neighborhood and feeling like a local champion, I didn't hesitate when Okoe invited me to join them on one of their walks. I assumed it would be similar to my usual stroll in the woods, so I readily agreed. Okoe mentioned that Kray was also part of the group, so I quickly arranged with Kray to drive down together for the next walk.

On Sunday, June 5th, 2022, Kray picked me up, and the excitement began to build. Upon meeting the group, I realized that I knew most of them already but was unaware of their regular trail-walking activities. As I stepped out of the car, my first impression was, "Eishh, these guys are well-kitted, as if they are going to climb Mount Everest," with head-to-toe solid gear. Meanwhile, I had turned up in my trainers. I didn't think much about the kit until we started walking.

Our first walk was on the Ridgeway trail, initially an extremely enjoyable experience until we approached the rough terrain – some rocky patches and killer hills. With every step more painful than the previous, I began to appreciate the necessity of hiking boots and proper gear to protect the ankles. I managed to keep up with the group, nicknamed UEFA league, as those in the Champions League (Perlus, Kofi, and Nick A) soon disappeared, leaving the rest of us to battle it out at the back with Chairman Kobby keeping us company and offering encouragement to us, the new boys.

The first experience was one never to forget, from the peaceful, fast-paced walk through the woods to the beautiful views across the hills, topped up with the fresh and unpolluted air instantly making you feel good despite the aching, tired legs.

I completed my first challenge with mixed feelings, but one thing was certain: I had conquered my first proper walk and had made it to the endpoint in 4 hours and 13 minutes, covering a total of 24.58 km. I now looked forward to the next walk.

My Proudest Moments

The most challenging walk, however, has been the South Downs challenge. Oh my goodness, halfway through, I wanted to give up! Of all the walks, this was by far the one I struggled the most to complete. Despite the beautiful scenery, cliffs, the sea, and greenery, it still remains my biggest challenge, and the thought of doing it again soon gives me nightmares. Having said all that, I can't wait for that challenge, as I will be psychologically more prepared next time.

Lows
Getting lost, walking through the rain with mud getting stuck under my shoes making them 5 times heavier and with my fear of heights having to cross that long bridge that runs over the A34 on the Ridgeway trail.

 

 

         

 

Alfred Walter

Known As:  Alfie, Alfredo, Sir Walter, Cambourne night owl  
 
Likes:  Reading books and articles on Economics, Philosophy, eating sumptuous medium rare steak, sipping on whiskey or cognac with fruit cake, running in the cool of the night, watching sports, spending time with family.

Dislikes: Intellectual laziness, lack of critical thinking and rude people   
 
Acorn journey  
 My shared passion for fitness with Kwabena Ansah (Ofege), the chairman, led to an invite for a 32km hike from Princes Risborough to Ivinhoe. Only Kojo Agyekumhene, aka Kray, joined us. On July 31, 2022, I arrived on time, but Kray's alpha traits emerged early. During the hike, Kray, with candor, declared, "this isn't a picnic" and surged ahead.

Struggling after 15km, I asked Ofege about a rest point. By 18km, nearly broken, Ofege sat with me. Worn out, I finished the 32km course, a baptism of fire, causing days of aches. Post-hike, my movement echoed my octogenarian parents' struggles. Ofege later expressed irritation at my initial underestimation of hiking's demands.

Kray, the Acorn R&D expert, suggested a shorter walk for recovery, but my legs resisted. Inspired by Kojo's resilience and Chairman's enthusiasm, I decided to join this group of fitness enthusiasts.

The Acorn Motivation 
Acorn members share their personal workouts during the week, mostly consisting of walks and jogs, creating motivation for in-between hike exercises. In my younger days, I used to go for morning runs, but now, an evening or night run suits me better. Around 9:30 pm, I step out for a walk, finding it convenient. Interestingly, I've reached a point where I can tackle a 32-34km hike and still go for a run the next evening.  My Proudest Moments
These days my proud moments include being able to run a couple of 10km runs in a week. I wasn't doing that a decade ago. Apart from that the encouragement to take a more critical look at my health is great.

 

 

         

 

Okoe Sean

Known As:  Okoe/Sean/Asala/MCQ/ViceChairman/Victor/SVO  
 
Likes:  
->Initial 1.5 km of Acorn treks; the sole occasion I outpace Perlus and Kofi. Truthfully, everyone, in all honesty. 
->Early morning Acorn inspired Korle Klottey circuit walks - proper me time to set me up for the day.
->Quality advice from Acorns - on exercise routines and weight loss  

Dislikes:
->Half way point (point of no return) on Acorn hikes.  I acknowledge there's a substantial distance ahead. I foresee Perlus, Kofi, Kojo, and Nick completing shortly! 
->As you're trailing behind Chairman on the path, the instant he notices you catching up, he starts jogging.
->As the month wraps up and you need to share your progress against targets, if your performance isn't up to par, David Nii might just have to put up his one and only sticker.

Acorn journey  
I started walking (Legon campus) with my sister during the Covid lockdowns in 2020. I found it was an easy way to keep reasonably fit and trim and also catchup.  I have never been consistent with exercise - so this was new for me.  It did feel good. 

I shared my newfound exercise routine with my friend Kwabena Ansah, aka Chairman and he promised that we would continue when I visited the UK - this turned out to be hikes in the countryside and the subsequent inception of the Acorns.

From a duo, our group grew to over a dozen, prompting the need for better organization. 2021 hikes would be done in jeans and trainers, but with the R&D leader onboard (Kojo Kray) on board, the group got the 'correct' kit - walkie talkies, hiking boots, tracking applications and all. 

The Acorns now split into smaller groups for each hike, ranging from Champions, Top 4, Europa to Conference leagues.  I'm proud of the setup that allows everyone to thrive as Acorns. Perhaps, one day, I'll reach the Champions League with Perlus and Kofi, or maybe not!

The Acorn Motivation
Outside organized Acorn hikes, we set individual targets (or Kojo sets them for you!). Group feedback motivates me to walk. Acorn hikes are enjoyable, fostering connections and strong friendships.  Fun and healthy at the same time!

  My Proud Moments 
->Hitting my September goal: 30 6km walks
->Entering the 8 series club (sub-9min/km pace) once or twice!
->Executing the start whilst they chat strategy to perfection. Peleton could not catch me till 15km in (not the place to talk about when Perlus and Kofi caught me😀)  

Lows
->Getting lost on the Ridgeway and finishing an hour behind everyone - so embarrassing!  If only I had not stopped to take that phone call...
->Realising that my recruitment of Meto was flawed. He was supposed to join me in Conference but he went straight past me to Europa!  

 

 

         

 

Eugene

Known As:  Genieman
 
Likes:  Travelling , reading/ researching on black history, spending time with family and friends, football, comedy and laughter  

Dislikes: Arguing, senseless conversation and paying bribes  

Acorn journey  

I was invited  to acorn group hikes a few times by Darren but was not really interested and almost dismissed the idea as a waste of time. After turning 50 however, I felt I needed new challenges in my life fitness wise, but hiking was not one of them. I then had a chance conversation with kray at a party. Kray sold the idea of hiking to me by explaining his own journey and how much improvements it had made to his life. I decided to give it a try and called Darren for more info the following week. It's only walking and I am reasonably fit so what could go wrong.

My first hike was in April 2023 and it was an absolute nightmare. I bought hiking boots which were my exact foot size only to find out on the day that I should have bought a size or two up and I should have broken them in. The distance was supposed to be max 23km according to Kray and chairman. The real distance turned out to be nearly 30km. Yep hiking distances are not an exact science and estimates can vary widely. I however suspect they reduced the distance by that margin to not scare me. After 3km I started feeling blister pains and tightening of hamstrings. I felt I was walking at top pace but the rest of the boys just seemed to get further and further away into the distance without trying. After 8km I was shattered and had already drunk most of my water.  Darren and chairman saw my predicament and decided to slow down to accompany me through this tough stage. I think I will stop here in case someone reading wants to join our group or start hiking and is put off.

I eventually made it to the finishing line in last place to be met by a chorus of cheers and clapping by the rest of the guys when I came round the final corner. The feeling of achievement within me was immense. I could not believe I had made it to the end having had to overcome so many mental and physical challenges to get there. I was tired, thirsty and hungry but hooked.

I have since gone on many hikes and love it.

The Acorn Motivation

The  plus points for me are the scenery and fresh air of the English countryside

Health benefits and dietary improvements I have made to get fitter and better.

Comradery and support amongst the group is great  and generally mixing with people of a similar age and mind.

 
 
My Proud Moments 
 
Every single hike i have managed to complete but the first will always stand out due to the challenges I overcame that day. 

Ascending uphill and tackling steep slopes presents unique challenges during hiking.

 

 

         

 

Nick KA

Likes: Athletics, Football, Formula 1, Lawn tennis, Positivity, Meeting people / Socialite

Dislikes: Foods laden with poultry, Negativity   

Acorn journey  

Once an avid sports enthusiast, I centered on long-distance running and football. Recurrent injuries during football led to 6-week breaks, prompting a switch to goalkeeping. Yet, the change was short-lived, and I shifted my focus back to long-distance running. However, age caught up, and running began affecting my knees.

Kojo Agyekumhene (KB) mentioned the Acorn Hikers Club's activities to me at Ato Ghunney's house and I promised to join the group. I expressed an interest to participate which was misconstrued as an aim to gun for the records.... It is all about taking part

Despite some club members persistently urging me, I reluctantly joined the Ridgeway trail in May 2023. A trial walk through Epsom Downs a week before bolstered my resolve. Ato Ghunney picked me up, and after congregating at the start, the hike commenced. Despite toe damage, my determination persisted, and I've proudly become a full club member with no regrets.

The Acorn Motivation

I've noticed I'm not alone in experiencing fatigue on the trails. It's the teamwork, camaraderie, and banter that carry us through it all.  
 
My Proud Moments 
 

Around 10 miles into my first Ridgeway trail hike, I developed a severe calf strain. Motivating myself, I pushed through the pain barrier, hobbling to ensure I completed the course.

Let's gooooo.....!!!!

 

 

         

 

Randy

Likes:  Football, Tennis, Formula 1, Driving, Socializing, Engaging in Conversations, and, of course, savoring a fine Cognac.

Dislikes: Negativity, Duck and Prawns  

  Acorn journey  

I guess the story is now familiar to many.  I joined not out of choice but out of curiosity about what he (you know who) made so much noise about.  I decided to experience this and I was not disappointed.  The hikes can be challenging but the excitement you get from completing makes you look forward to the next one.

The day before a hike, I prepare myself physically and psychologically in order to be in the right frame of mind.  My first hike was on the Ridgeway and right after that my anxiety and fear was conquered. I couldn't wait for the next one...great feeling.

The Acorn Hikers Club has become a group I am proud to be a member of and I really enjoy the company of the guys, the positive vibes and the dedication.  Our social events are also one l look forward to and when we the "South Mandems" host, we really put on a show.

The Acorn Motivation

Being as lazy as l am, I routinely decline invitations for physical challenges. The Acorn Hikers have ignited newfound vitality within me. Spontaneously rising and initiating movement has become second nature. My physical well-being remains optimal, evident in my surroundings. Witnessing peers share their local walks, whether in the morning or evening, serves as motivation, prompting me to venture out despite weather conditions and other obligations. The Acorns - for life.  
 
My Proud Moments 
 
Midway through the 24km South Downs challenge, I strained my back 6km in. Despite this setback, I managed to finish, thanks to the guys who were there to aid me throughout the entire journey.

 

 

         

 

Ben Perlus

Known As: Cyborg

Likes: Family Time and All things Property related

Dislikes: Time Wasting (Time and tide waits for no man)

  Acorn journey  

My venture into walking was unplanned, prompted by a cycling accident that left me with an injured shoulder and 15 months of physiotherapy. Unable to engage in my regular jogging and football, I developed sciatic pains. Despite physiotherapy's limited success, I turned to daily walks with my wife, initially finding them awkward but gradually relishing the experience. Surprisingly, my sciatic pain gradually disappeared, and during the Covid period, my routine walks transformed into explorations of woodlands and hidden properties in my area, turning walking into both a hobby and a daily pastime, showcasing the unexpected positive turns that life can take.

During a conversation about my daily walks, my childhood friend Ofege introduced me to the Ridgeway hike and invited me to join him and Okoe Quist. I gladly accepted, and from there, history unfolded. I've completed the Ridgeway hike three times and the Southdown once with the group. Presently, my routine consists of 6-mile early morning walks on weekdays before work and long-distance walks on either Saturdays or Sundays, often with the Acorners, a group of fine gentlemen. The blend of camaraderie, engaging talks, and staying fit is truly remarkable.

The Acorn Motivation

Group members establish individual goals and encourage each other by sharing activities and times. On the hiking trail, we push and pull, ensuring everyone gives their best effort. Chit chats are welcomed at the trail's start, but slacking is actively discouraged. Honestly, a 20-mile hike is no easy feat for average men in their fifties. Nevertheless, as the saying goes, practice makes perfect, and we've all become adept with the routine. The serene environment on walks and trails is genuinely therapeutic, and I'd recommend it to anyone willing to give it a try. 

My Proud Moments 
 
Numerous options exist, but surpassing them all is seizing control from medical professionals and physiotherapists to eliminate sciatic pain through consistent walking.

Lows: I look on the bright side always!

 

 

         

 

David Nii

Known as : David-Nii Amas 

Likes : Researching Pre-18th Century African History 

Dislikes: Hausa Koko with milk(such sacrilege!)

 
Acorn journey  

Acorn Journey.....By definition, a journey is an act of travelling from one place to another....Hence....by definition, my Acorn journey has (truly) been an (enjoyable) act of transitioning from a state of sub optimal fitness levels, to my current state of near optimal fitness levels.

The catalyst for this successful journey? Well...none other than my good old buddy "Prof" S.V.O Quist ably supported by @ Team Acorn. Following an injury that required extensive rehabilitation, the "Prof" and @ Team Acorn, helped facilitate my journey to full rehabilitation in record time!...

A 30km hike today, involving torturous hilly trails , is an activity I look forward to...a challenge that gives me an adrenaline rush...thanks to @ Team Acorn..

The vibe you get from this eclectic mix of fine gentlemen is that of super positive energy, togetherness/teamwork, great camaraderie and banter, mental toughness, the can-do-anything/impossible-is-nothing attitude to sports and life's challenges, living & eating healthy....and most importantly, the importance of being responsible and family oriented.

@ Team Acorn...we are one big family of individual leaders...positively urging each other on in every aspect of life! I am already looking forward to season 2024...

Bring on the #Hills....We Move!!!!

         

 

Kofi H

 
Acorn journey 

It was at a friend’s birthday party, around early Sept 2022, soon after life was getting back to some normality, after the pandemic of 2020, that in a discussion with Kray, he broached the subject of walking. Years earlier, Kray had tried to get me into HIIT, with Insanity type exercises, but I found it too physical for my aging body.

I told him I was into walking too, taken it up after years of weekend cycling and jogging. I found walking accessible, and could do it consistently at my convenience, during the week and at weekends.

I had during the pandemic lock down taken to it on daily. From hour long walks, I had moved to three to five hours easy walks (rambling), mostly on country trails.

So, when Kray broached the subject and invited me for an 18km hike, I thought this was well within my capabilities. Though the longest I had done at that point was about 12km. I reasoned that doing almost daily 7 – 12 kms walks would have prepared me, with a little stretch, to walk 18kms.

So, on the day, 18 Sep 2022, I turned up to walk part of the Ridgeway trail to Ivinghoe Beacon. It was challenging, mainly because of the many hills, and it was a warm day too.

I kept up with Kray and Nick till the last few kilometres, as the many hills and inexperience took their toll. I loved it and committed to the next walk on 30 Oct 2022. This was a 30kms hike on the South Downs trail starting from Winchester Hill to Harting Down.

I had fulfilled the requirement to be an acorn member.

The journey so far has been exciting, informative and new lifelong friendships have been made. The information we share encourages each member and improves our general health.

Let’s go!!!

         

 

Nick A

Known as: Nick A (Nico)

Likes: Sports, Travelling and Food

Dislikes: Winter

Acorn journey  

One day Kray called to say there’s a group of similar minded individuals who are into walking, and that he had been invited to join a hiking experience on the Ridgeway Trail, I really didn’t know much about the Ridgeway and was a bit sceptical but he managed to convince that it will be an experience to try as the distance being talked about was quite interesting.

I met up with the group (Kwabena, Okoe, Perlus and of course Kray). I knew Okoe previously but didn’t know he was into walking. These guys looked professional with their trail shoes and boots – hmmmm whilst Kray and I came in our trainers (we should have been warned). Anyway, after the pleasantries, we set off chit-chatting and taking in the countryside, after the first 2-3km at a reasonable pace, Perlus decided enough of the pleasantries, put on his earphones and darted off, Kray also thought ‘Dasrite, let’s go’, that was the cue that “ we didn’t come to play”.

That baptism of the first walk was such an eye opener and not to underestimate these trails, especially at the pace we walk. I quickly had to go and get Deep Heat and Trail shoes (a must).

What a journey it’s been ever since with Ridgeway Trail, South Downs, and on to the next exciting challenge.

The Acorn Motivation

I guess, we all have our individual motivation but the general consensus is the need to keep fit, and although we do keep fit in our locality, the bond of the group on such walks gives it a much more enjoyable experience, attacking the different terrains, enjoying the views, overcoming the intensity of the walks, it is a totally different experience and is priceless.

As a group, the dedication and spirit of the members to go out in all weather, putting in the shift in their local environment serves as a great motivation. When I am feeling lazy and see activity posts on the group forum, that is the best kick up the backside for me to pound the pavement.

My Proud Moments  

‘FINISHING A WALK’.

The relief, the accomplishment and the pride one feels when we get to the finish is awesome, it’s built up a strong mental strength I didn’t know I had.

Until one has done a walk, it really is difficult to explain, besides there’s the added bonus of Nkate Cake from Amas.

 

DeGhunster

Known As: DeGhunster

Likes:  I adore the tranquility along the trails, accompanied by my thoughtfully curated music collection.

Dislikes:    Feeling uneasy around cattle encountered on the trail.

Acorn journey 

I stumbled upon this group when a member (Nii) shared captivating photos and tales of countryside hikes. Initially curious about local hikes, my intrigue grew after meeting another member (KB) at a social gathering. Their vivid experiences convinced me to join. 

From training sessions to my inaugural 18-19km trek along the Ridgeway, I've been hooked. The allure lies in the unique ambiance of the countryside, navigating rough terrains, and engaging in stimulating discussions that even influenced a positive change in my diet.


The Acorn Motivation

Discovering the health benefits of walking and hiking has been a revelation. As a diabetic with average readings, my latest annual check-up after consistent hiking showed remarkable improvement. My GP's exact words were "keep doing what you're doing." Additionally, witnessing fellow members' regular updates on their hiking endeavors serves as a continual source of motivation.

My Proud Moments 

Embarking on what was planned as a 16km hike, which unexpectedly stretched to 26km, stands as my most challenging yet rewarding accomplishment. Fortunately, I was well-prepared for the extended journey.

 

Kojo Kray

Known As: Kray or Sgt. Major (drill Sargeant)

Likes: White Wine, Guinness

Dislikes: Laziness and lame excuses (if you want to do a rain check get a good lawyer)

Acorn Journey

I got a call from SVOQ XO (Okoe) that he wanted to me join him and his friends on a hike.  At this time I was proud of my stamina so was straight out asking about the times these guys were setting.  Okoe tried to persuade me by saying I wouldn’t be disappointed with the group and the hike so please come before judging. 

To be honest, I had not hiked before, so I called my virtual walking partner now, Nick from Royal Berkshire and told him some guys were inviting us to hike and we should go and see what they had to offer.  Nick asked the same questions, what kind of distances and speed are they doing but agreed to come. 

So we turned up on the day, made a bit of noise in a sleepy small town greeted each other and made acquaintances and then set out the scene. 

Chairman gave us the rules – follow the Acorn sign – and here birthed the group slogan – always follow the Acorn. 

We then set out and Nick from Berkshire and I had a game plan to do what we do on the pavement, “jog it”.  The madness was to outpace @Perlus who seemingly was ahead of us using a constant pace. 

So the “jog it, power-walk continued till we realised we could not keep this all distance and therefore succumbed to following or keeping up with Cyborg. @Perlus.  

The Acorn Motivation

If you need motivation, then become a member of the Acorn Hikers Club.  The pop-up updates from a co-member completing their walk will send you into a “go-out” mode.  You want to get out and go set your time so you are naturally motivated by a group that is generally working to their individual targets but also encouraging the lazy or idle ones amongst the group.  Don’t worry, if you are not posting a session you will be called to explain yourself.  

My Proud Moments

Best Powerwalk Time:

Best Jog time: 5.19 for a single km

Longest Distance: 250 km in a single month with over 50 km completed in the last days of the month

Stamina: Doing Aburi Mountain 2x – including jogging downhill 10km and powerwalking up with walk partner Micah Oben.  The 5 Hills Challenge, the South Downs all rank amongst where I have pushed the Mille.

Lows: the groin, when it went it did go but I still hit the trail.