Treasure Run

Name and Purpose

Treasure Run is a fast-moving team challenge that mixes obstacle navigation with dodgeball strategy.
Players practise coordination, decision-making, and teamwork under pressure.

a.k.a.

Age / Group / Time / Space

Ages 8-16 | 10-30 players | 20-30 minutes | Large gym or open field; at least 15m x 20m

Materials

Quick-Run Card

Build the obstacle course; set treasure in hula hoop at far end.
Team A lines up at the start; Team B spreads around the perimeter with dodgeballs.
On “Go!” one runner from Team A tries to reach the treasure and bring one item back.
A runner hit by a dodgeball moves to the Second Circle sideline; they rejoin after completing 3 jumping jacks.
Count retrieved treasure; swap roles.

Setup and Boundaries

Use cones to mark the start line and the outer perimeter
Mats stand upright so runners can crouch behind them
Signal: 1 whistle = pause; 2 whistles = stop and gather
Check the floor for wet spots, gaps between mats, or loose equipment before play

How to Play

Divide the group into Team A (runners) and Team B (throwers).
Team B spreads along the perimeter; each thrower holds a dodgeball.
On “Go!” the first Team A runner navigates the obstacle course toward the treasure.
Only one Team A player runs at a time; the next runner goes when the previous one returns, is tagged, or reaches the sideline.
Runners may only carry one treasure item back per trip.
A runner hit by a dodgeball moves to the Second Circle. They complete 3 jumping jacks at the sideline, then return to the queue.
If a runner is hit while carrying treasure, the item stays where they were hit and may be retrieved on a later run.
When Team A has had all their turns (or a set time expires), teams swap roles.
The team with the most treasure at the end wins. Tiebreaker: fewest trips to the sideline.

I-OPt Options

A (Active): Run the obstacle course or throw dodgeballs on the perimeter
S (Support): Cheer, count treasure, or help spot hazards as a sideline guide
Q (Quiet): Walk the course at a calm pace; throwers may choose to roll balls rather than throw
O (Observer): Watch from a safe sideline position; choose when to join

Inclusion Adaptations

Runners may walk the course rather than run; throwers may roll the ball along the floor
Treasure items can be placed closer to the start line to shorten the run for campers who need it

Stewardship Moment

After play, team members collect all equipment together in under 60 seconds
Reflection: “How did the obstacles change the way you moved? What would make this space safer for everyone?”

Consent

Pre-brief: “This game involves being targeted by soft foam balls. For those not comfortable with dodgeball contact, the role of sideline guide or treasure counter is another option.”
Mid-game check: After the first round, pause. “How is everyone doing? Thumbs up, sideways, or down.”
Opt-out/re-entry: Raise both hands to step out at any time. Rejoin the queue when ready.

Risks and Mitigation

Collision with upright mats: remind runners to look before ducking behind mats; staff checks mat stability before play
Thrown balls hitting the face: remind Team B to aim below the shoulders; staff models gentle throwing during demo
Runners colliding at treasure zone: only one runner in the zone at a time; next runner waits at the last obstacle
Staff should be aware of any campers with visual sensitivities or who find fast-moving objects startling

Warm-Up Suggestions

“Obstacle Walk”: players walk through the course slowly once before play begins
“Catch and Roll”: pairs practise gentle underhand tosses to warm up throwing and catching

Debrief Questions

Cleanup and Reset