The Man, The Myth, The Legend: Hector

This past weekend, Hector Vargas hosted all of the GVI Amazon volunteers on his island in the Napo River, where he lives with his wife and 4 week old baby. The island is also home to nearly 60 rescued monkeys who roam free and safely on the island. GVI volunteers did many fun and interesting things such as look for monkeys, lounge in hammocks and help complete a thatch roof for Hector's newly renovated dock. But perhaps the most memorable par of the trip was getting to know Hector himself.

Hector is an Ecuadorian who speaks eight languages and is extremely knowledgeable about the different indigenous groups in the Amazon region. He is from the Quichua culture and has spent a considerable amount of time with the Huaorani (a legendary group of indigenous people known for the fierce defense of their land against the oil companies and other outsiders).

Friday afternoon Hector taught the volunteers how to use the infamous blow pipes and traditional spears - the weapons and hunting tools used by the indigenous groups of the Amazon region. First he showed everyone how to hold the blow pipe, which is a good two metres in length. The target was an orange on top of a piece of wood. Everyone gave it a go - three times in fact - only one was successful - sharp shooter Rachel. Every volunteer now owes Rachel a drink for her success.

Next up was wielding a spear and throwing it at the same target. The spear stood well over our heads, but was surprisingly light. No one managed to take down the orange in the initial competition. However, after a few hours of practice put in by the boys, I think a few of them were successful.

Valerie Mills - GVI Amazon volunteer Jan-March 2010

The Man, The Myth, The Legend: Hector