Tim returns to school to recount adventures
Tim Cope recently returned to his former shcool Drouin South Primary School as a special guest speaker.
Tim, an adventurer and author, who graduated from the school after completing grade six in 1990.
Tim lived out his childhood dream, to travel 10,000 kilometres from Mongolia to Hungary on horseback – a journey undertaken by the legendary leader of the Mongols, Genghis Khan.
This unlikely tale of the three-and-a-half-year odyssey was made into a much loved ABC TV series, a best-selling book (On the Trail Of Genghis Khan), and is now a memoir for young adults (aged 10-18). Tim has also written ‘Tim & Tigon’.
Tim spoke about his journey by horse from Mongolia to Europe that took him through unbelievable loneliness, hardship, isolation and the extremes of searing heat and bitter cold.
He also immersed himself in the traditions and histories of the people of the steppe, who welcomed him and Tigon, his dog, into their homes.
Tim marvelled at their ingenuity and resilience, and the nomadic lifestyle they have followed for centuries.
His journey was compelling and unique, and resonates with the pioneering spirit of the explorers of old. It was the story of an extraordinary friendship between Tim and Tigon.
Teacher Wendy McLean said the students enjoyed meeting Tim and hearing of his travels.
“It was fabulous to have Tim and one of Tigon’s off spring visiting to share his tales, and pass on his philosophy that, ‘if you have to rush, rush slowly’.