Page 15 - RAPTC 23/24

13
with being a tutor on the National Level 3 programme & providing assessments and feedback to the younger generation of officials wishing to progress further in their officiating.
This has been a particularly rewarding year for me, as I was nominated and received an Army Sports Lifetime Achievement Award for my services to Army Basketball which spans over 40 years since I first qualified, as a grade 3 official at the BAOR School of PT in Sennelager in 1983.
The awards dinner, held at RMAS, where I was presented with my award was a fantastic night celebrating all the great sporting achievements of all Army athletes and to cap it all I was sat next to the Legend that is Chris Boardman. Even better than that was that my long- suffering Basketball widow, my wife, was able to attend what was a fantastic night.
TDT PT Analyst
SSgt (SSI) C Duncan RAPTC
’Welcome to DSAT’
I had the immense pleasure of a warm welcome into HQ RAPTC TDT as an Analyst in late Oct 23. New to the vortex that DSAT is, I realised in my first few weeks that missing the glorious North was not my only battle ahead. However, with the team’s guidance on DSAT, I am now able to throw out a few buzz words to bluff my knowledge whilst in a meeting. Jokes aside, it’s been amazing thus far to take in the knowledge of DSAT and better understand the bigger picture of training and the courses we provide to the Corps and wider Army.
Coming from a Field Force Unit, my work has differed hugely, with focus now mostly directed at the dual 24” monitors sat on my desk. Working as part of the team to produce new training materials, review courses and more, has really provided me
WO2 (QMSI) Ian Lester with Olympic Cyclist, Chris Boardman
job satisfaction knowing we are working towards shaping the Corps’ future for the better. There is also optimal time to focus internally within the HQ, whether that be team breakfasts or planning team building activities. One of the latest being during HQ RAPTC Op TEAMWORK 24 day, where TDT planned a team Orienteering event to provide a rewarding outdoor activity for HQ RAPTC members.
TDT AT Analyst
Sgt (SI) R Clelland RAPTC
In September 2023, HQ RAPTC embarked on an Adventurous Training (AT) week in Brecon, a town known for its stunning landscapes and challenging terrains. The week was filled with activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing, and canoeing, each designed to push the team’s physical and mental boundaries whilst fostering camaraderie and resilience.
The mountain biking segment of the training was a blend of trail riding and skills learning. The team navigated through some of Brecon’s most challenging trails. The trails offered a mix of fast descents and technical climbs, testing the team’s endurance and biking skills. In addition to trail riding, the team also participated in skills learning sessions. These sessions focused on enhancing their biking techniques, such as mastering the art of balance, understanding the right body position for different terrains, and learning how to handle unexpected obstacles.
Next on the agenda was rock climbing, conducted within the confines of a climbing facility. The indoor setting provided a controlled environment for the team to learn and practice their climbing skills. The climbers tackled various routes on the artificial rock walls, each route designed to challenge their strength, agility, and critical thinking skills.
SMAA and SO2 Trg Dev take part in orienteering as part of the HQ’s Op TEAMWORK day
Members of TDT enjoying the challenges set during an indoor climbing session in Brecon
The final activity for the week was canoeing down the serene canal in Brecon. Armed with paddles and life jackets, the team went on a journey down the peaceful waters. The canoeing experience was not just about physical strength; it was also about coordination and teamwork. The calmness of the canal was a stark contrast to the vigorous biking trails and challenging rock walls, providing the team with a much-needed respite.
The AT week in Brecon was more than just a series of physical activities. It was an opportunity for the HQ RAPTC to step out of their comfort zones, to face challenges head-on and to grow stronger as a team. The memories of the bike rides, the climbs, and the peaceful canoeing journey will undoubtedly remain in their minds.
Members of TDT prior to canoeing in Brecon