Page 46 - 1RHA 2023

pionships in Ruhpolding, in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps. As novices they were to race a distance of more than 120 km over 12 days in the world-class Chiemgau Biathlon arena. The Army Championships started well, with challenging races in both clas- sic and skate technique, and Ruhpolding provided an amazing setting for it to take place in. As the weeks went on the weather started to present a challenge, with slushy and icy conditions making skiing somewhat lethal. Despite these challenging condi- tions both Cfn West and Lt Weil battled on to finish all the races.
During this time Capt Marcus Webb, who is on the GB Biathlon team, was also able to come and compete at the Army cham- pionships in the men’s 10km biathlon sprint. Unfortunately the poor snow quality during the race meant the course had to be
changed and the results were discarded. He continues to train with the GB Nordic Squad and is on track to compete at the Win- ter Olympics in 2026. With all the races complete a prize giving evening was followed all too swiftly with one final emotional drive back to the UK.
Challenging but very rewarding, everyone massively enjoyed the Nordic ski season, and the Regiment’s Nordic Skiers are eagerly anticipating the 2023-2024 season, where they will no doubt be able to build on this year’s successes.
1st Regiment Royal Horse Artillery
Team members:
Lt Weil AS1 Davies LBdr Emery Cfn West
Pte Rai
Pte Shapland
Rugby
LBdr Whitrod B Bty & LBdr Wilson B Bty
This year the 1RHA Rugby Football Club has returned bigger and better than last, with all players thriving to conduct training and matches. The team has been driv- ing recruitment again which we’re delighted to say has been a great success, and we’ve joined forces with other Larkh- ill regiments to increase opportunities. It’s been brilliant to see the team coming together and watching them go from strength to strength.
The tone towards the season was initiated by the Annual General Meeting which voted in the new club constitution and committee members, followed by discussing the plan towards matches and training. LBdr Whitrod was voted in as team captain and LBdr Wilson as vice-captain.
The first game of the season was against Army HQ, the “Grif- fins”. A challenging fixture, the Griffins put up a fight showing pure determination and energy. The 1RHA team responded well and with a great display of rugby proved the victors with the final score 33-20. This was a great opportunity for the younger members to represent the club.
The club has grown stronger this year due to the dedication of the players and the amazing coaching team that support the club. Congratulations to LBdr Degei (B Bty) and Gnr Rokovu-
toro (E Bty) who were selected to represent the Gunners in both rugby league and union.
So what next for the club? With another busy year for the Regiment as it begins rotations on Op CABRIT in Estonia and conducting courses, exercises, and training, a coming together of Gunner Regiments in Larkhill has happened. In recognition of the commitments of all Larkhill regiments a “Purvis Lines” team has been formed, consisting of 1RHA, 26RA and 19RA. This gives players a greater guarantee to get time on the field, be it in training or matches, by utilising the larger player base. We look forward to working together and developing!
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