Page 25 - Bugle Autumn 2023

Ex NORDIC
BUGLE –
Nordic Skiing
This year, the Nordic skiing season began at the start of November in Pirbright. Battalions from across the Infantry came together, and got their first experience
of Nordic ski training, even if we were somewhat removed from the snowy mountains that you would normally associate with the sport. During this camp we got our hands on the biathlon rifles and roller skis, building the foundations for our time on the snow.
Our next destination was Idre Fjall, Sweden, where we honed our skills under the expert instruction of Scott Dixon and his incredible team. Many of our instructors competed at the world championships, and the Olympics in Biathlon and cross-country skiing. This 3-week camp culminated in the first races of the infantry championships, held on the iconic Idre Fjall racetrack.
After returning from a refreshing Christmas break, we travelled to Bessans, France
for the Infantry championships. The team performed superbly, securing a podium position of third. The next challenge was the Divisional Championships in Les Contamines. This provided the experience to compete against teams from across the Army, and the competition was high. After many challenging races the battalion team finished in second place at the divisional championships, with
a multitude of medals awarded to the team –
To the victor, the spoils – 3 Rifles Nordic Team after winning the Infantry Championships
most notably the Military Patrols team secured a silver medal. This podium finish secured
our place at the British/Army Championships in Ruhpolding, Germany. The British/Army Championships allowed the team to compete against the best British Civilian Skiers, as well as the best military teams from across the armed forces.
The Nordic season was extremely challenging, both mentally and physically. It is perfectly suited and aligned to what Rifleman do best: covering large areas of ground at speed, and accurately engaging targets with a rifle. I cannot recommend Nordic skiing highly enough; anyone who is thinking of taking part should most definitely take the plunge.
Lance Corporal Wood
B Company
3 RIFLES
Ex NORTHERN SNOWBADGER 10 3 RIFLES, descends to the Alps
63 people from 3 RIFLES deployed in December to the Espace d’Killy region of the French Alps on Exercise SNOWBADGER X, a ski touring adventurous training exercise.
The expedition provided an opportunity to learn Alpine skiing skills for novices,
and for those who could already ski to
start off-piste ski touring. Ski touring provides challenges for teams working in adverse mountain conditions, and practise navigation and safety drills in a unique and demanding environment. The fitness and teamwork required makes it an ideal pursuit for small teams working in remote regions and prepares us for our transition to a
Security Force Assistance battalion. Conditions were superb and allowed
for the rapid progression of our beginners, and audacious ski tour routes for the Ski Foundation three teams.
By the end of a tough week on snow,
3 Rifles, descends to the Alps. A skiing syndicate take a break from tuition to take squad picture
On your marks! A Rifleman awaits the starting gun
45 ski foundation
qualifications were awarded,
which have allowed Riflemen to progress through the Joint Services
Ski Scheme. There are plans to build on this year’s success and make next winter season’s exercises a Regimental wide entity.
Lt Cottrell, B Company
RIFLES The Bugle 25