What links 32 cadets, 18 staff, a length of rope and a physical training instructor? In short they were just a few of the elements required for the inter-services cadet challenge which was held recently at Dalton Barracks in Oxfordshire.
The one day event was designed to bring together cadets representing all three services, mix them into joint service teams and throw them into a series of challenges which encouraged them to work together in a spirit of enjoyment. In addition, each of the challenges faced by the cadets was devised by one of the cadet forces and thus represented an activity common as part of their training syllabus.
Amongst the tasks undertaken by the cadets was a navy line heaving exercise, an army obstacle course and an RAF command task. Add into the mix a first aid exercise and a target shooting challenge and you have a day of fun and competition which, judging by the comments made was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Speaking during the awards ceremony at the end of the day, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Oxfordshire Colonel John Bridgeman CBE TD DL said “You have proven yourselves to be remarkable young men and women and your participation in the cadet forces will undoubtedly lead you into amazing things”. He also thanked the adult staff who “made the day possible. If the cadets had fun then it was the staff who made it happen”.
The day ended with a Bar-B-Q where all participants braved the rain to enjoy a well deserved burger.