Carry the Flame

Carry the Flame vividly recounts the establishment and early years of the Canadian Outward Bound Wilderness School. Throughout more than 50 eclectic essays, former staff, administrators, board members, and students articulate the distinctive, unique spirit of the school and its lasting impact on their lives to this day.

A detailed history of the early years of the Canadian Outward Bound Wilderness School (COBWS) during the 1970s and 1980s, Carry the Flame chronicles the establishment of the school by founder Bob Pieh. Throughout more than 50 eclectic, humorous, reflective, and personal essays, former students and staff consider the distinctive spirit of this life-changing school in Northwest Ontario.

One of 34 Outward Bound schools worldwide, the remote location of COBWS on Black Sturgeon Lake contributed to an uncommon vision and implementation of the pillars of Outward Bound founder Kurt Hahn’s educational philosophy.

Essays highlight the vibrant offerings at the school, including the summer wilderness canoe courses and the evolution of a dog sledding winter program.

INSPIRING: The Outward Bound program is about bringing out the best in every individual. The power and intensity of adventure and learning in the outdoors create positive experiences and memories that have a lasting impact.

TALES OF ADVENTURE: Former students, staff, and board members share firsthand accounts of their time at COBWS and the life-changing impact the program had on their lives. Carry the Flame delves into the personal growth and empowerment of individuals who have attended the school, offering insights and inspiration for those seeking self-discovery and transformation.

NEVER-BEFORE-SEEN IMAGES: The 50 essays are accompanied by never-before-published photographs from the contributors, providing a unique, personal glimpse into life at COBWS in the 1970s and 80s.