John Stephen Akhwari, perhaps a little know name, was treated to a standing ovation and huge round of applause by the delegations present at the Africa Scout day celebrations in Arusha. His is a story of a Tanzanian Olympic hero who did not win any medal, finished last, but competed with pride and courage, doing his best to reach the finish line no matter what. Akhwari’s inspirational story goes back to 1968 Mexico City, during Summer Olympics. He had not trained at such an altitude back in Tanzania. Almost halfway through the 42 kilometers race he was hit, had a horrible fall, hurt his head, damaged his knee, and endured a trampling before he could get back on his feet. Despite his injuries, Akhwari pressed on and continued despite being asked by the medical staff to quit. He went on to finish the race. Why did he continue to race if he was so badly injured? John Stephen Akhwari said this: “My country did not send me over 11,000 kilometers to start a race. They sent me over 11,000 kilometers to finish one.” John attributes this courage and resilience to his Scout training that gave him the strength. It is for this reason that Tanzania Scouts Association saw it fit to recognize his gallantry and for staying true to Scout values even in the midst of all odd, and as a motivation to young people. Photo credits: Kondrad Kmieć, Polish Scouting and Guiding Association