Ten Tors 2018

Cadets from Bristol and Gloucestershire Wing have again completed the Ten Tors Challenge this year and both teams (35 miles & 45 miles) performed admirably!
We asked one of the participants to tell us about their experience:

The Ten Tors Challenge, is certainly a challenge. With distances ranging from 35 to 45 to 55 miles, over one of the most varying and difficult terrains; Dartmoor.
The challenge begins with the firing of artillery cannons, followed by a flypast of two Royal Navy Merlin helicopters, and then we begin. Begin the weekend, begin the hike, begin the challenge.

Training for Ten Tors began 7 months ago on a taster weekend down on Dartmoor and since then the two teams have undergone various training walks, from day walks to weekends. However, training this year was cut short due to the challenging weather, which did result in the challenge increasing in difficulty. The effort was too much for some and plenty of individuals and teams dropped out. Bristol & Gloucestershire Wing started the challenge with two teams and finished with two teams, so a massive congratulations goes to those who completed the challenge. It is a huge achievement.

All of this would have not been possible without the teaching, guidance and organisation by the small number of staff. They are very modest for the amount that they do and do it year after year, committing to 7 months of training, driving, walking, paperwork and paperwork. The amount of organisation ‘behind the scenes’ they do is incredible and so myself and the rest of competitors show our appreciation and thank you enormously.
That said, we reach out to any staff that would like to join the team as minibus drivers, qualified staff or personnel wishing to get their qualifications. The help would be very useful and we would be most grateful for any help.

Once again, well done to all those completed the challenge this year. If anyone is wishing to take part next year, please join the team. Ask your OCs and any staff members, don’t hesitate to get involved. We (the cadets) would be very thankful.

By Cadet Sergeant Holden, 2509 (Chipping Sodbury) Squadron