The Young Sleuths Challenge (AR, GW, AS, RW, HH)

Congratulations, (Insert Name)! The Shrouded Veil has selected the (insert team name) to participate in our next Young Sleuths Challenge. You have impressed our selection committee with your application, showcasing your mystery-solving abilities, or a past challenge winner has vouched for your talents. So get ready to test your deduction abilities in a series of mysteries designed by our founders, Rex and Tish Hardaway.

The Hardaways were once similar to yourself but as members of a mystery-solving quintet. They honed their investigatory skills by exposing and apprehending fiends such as Old Man Mosby, the Swamp Vixen, and the Peach Street Puppets. Ultimately, Rex, Tish, and their friends capped their teen gumshoe careers by doing what no adult could. By following clues that had been available for over two hundred years, they discovered the elusive treasure of the nefarious pirate, Redbeard.

With the ability to do what they wished, Rex and Tish created The Shrouded Veil, an organization dedicated to encouraging the next generation of teen detectives. To further that goal, the Young Sleuths Challenge was created twenty-one years ago to help test and train mystery-solving clubs from throughout America. Winners earn not only bragging rights but also a fabulous trip to Thundering Isle, scholarships, and most importantly, The Spectacled Sleuth Cap trophy.

The Youth Sleuths Challenge's location varies for each invitational and is chosen based on a real mystery from the region. Past challenge sites have included a magnificent mansion, an isolated offshore island, a southern plantation, a ski lodge, and an amusement park. As in the past, the Hardaways create a series of mystery quests for competitors based on the location's history. You will find information in this packet on the location of your detective adventure, limited details of what to expect, and recommended items or clothing to pack.

As your team's leader, you will need to select five additional young Sherlocks. We must receive your selections no later than two weeks after receipt of this invitation. We highly recommend that you choose your members wisely for each of their skill sets. A sleuth of any age should prepare for the unexpected.

Good luck and good investigating!