I just remembered that last summer, a Korean family arrived at Santiago in early August, having walked from St. Jean Pied de Port. The family was mom, dad, an eight-year old daughter, and a six-year old son. The little boy had used his “Razor” folding kick scooter ALL THE WAY.
We’re talking slightly less that 800 km, or about 500 miles. I don’t know about you, but when I was six, NOTHING could bribe or induce me to do this. This was a singular and very memorable incident.
In my experience, Korean pilgrims are among the most serious, committed, even stubborn and motivated pilgrims. But THIS took the cake!
I asked, the mom spoke good English, about the six-year old and the scooter. She explained that her son rode the scooter at every opportunity, but folded and carried it up hills or on rough terrain. The parents carried his rucksack load out in their packs.
Normally, the minimum age for a youngster to receive their own Latin Compostela is 10 years of age, or having received bed First Holy Communion if the child is Catholic. The issue is being able to comprehend good vs evil, and the seriousness of the Camino, or some similar construct. I felt this young fellow deserved something IN HIS NAME to commemorate the huge accomplishment.
I recall arguing with the folks behind the counter that the kids should get some specific documentation of their really over the top achievement. My best recollection is that the parents received Compostelas. The kids got desportivo certificates in their own names, in lieu of the Compostela. But they ALL got distance certificates.
Hope this helps flesh out the discussion.