How did we get here?
In 2019 Azimuth Quest started the Challenge program at Prescott High School.
But Challenge history goes way back, to similar programs running in the 1970’s and 80’s, sponsored by a group called the PAK Foundation.
This is what became the inspiration for creating Azimuth Quest.
The Azimuth Quest Foundation has deep roots connecting it to Prescott College and youth outdoor education in Arizona. Most of its Board of Directors are former leaders or alumni of a wilderness experiential education program established in the early 1970’s in the Phoenix area with significant assistance at the time from Prescott College staff and faculty.
The Pateman-Akin-Avery-Kachina Foundation, also known as the PAAK Foundation, has its roots in the post-World War II era and is closely tied to the Kachinas, a legendary climbing arm of the Boy Scouts in Phoenix, Arizona.
This group, including Ralph Pateman, Wynn Akin, Lee & Ben Pedrick, Dick Hart, Ed George, Ray Garner, and Bob Owens, was renowned for pioneering modern rock climbing in the Phoenix area and other parts of Arizona. They made several first ascents in and around Phoenix, including at Camelback Mountain. Due to their expertise in mountaineering, the Kachinas were often called upon for mountain and rock rescues.
