Page 42 - QARANC Spring 2024

42 The Gazette QARANC Association
in St. Catharines, engaging in collaborative training with the Canadian forces to prepare for the main event. The training encompassed weapon handling training on 9 mm Browning pistol, C7 A2 Canadian assault rifle, and 870 shotgun. Additionally, the teams underwent ground training and familiarisation with rope work for the rappel tower.
In the evening, the all-ranks bar was opened, providing ample opportunities for team members to socialise not only among themselves but also with the host and the wider teams. This blend of familiarisation training and social interaction aimed to enhance both professional and interpersonal bonds which was much needed.
On 4 November, all teams regrouped at the Lincoln and Welland Regiment’s base, brimming with energy and anticipation for the upcoming main event. The day commenced with a comprehensive safety briefing, swiftly followed by the deployment to Short Hills National Park, where all faced a series of navigation challenges in the morning. Team QARANC, propelled by their enthusiasm, impressively gathered all 10 checkpoints within the designated time frame, setting a promising tone for their endeavours.
The triumph was so significant that it warranted a tight royal hug
Recognition must rightly be given to Sergeant Cross, a subject matter expert in land navigation, and to the noteworthy aerobic and muscular endurance displayed by Pte Otieno and Pte Gurung, who spearheaded the team in efficiently collecting checkpoints.
The subsequent challenge for Team QARANC unfolded at the ranges which included firing 20 rounds with the C7 assault rifle, 10 rounds with brownie pistol and five rounds with 870 shotgun. Despite the first exposure to these weapons for many within the team, everyone embraced the opportunity, ultimately securing a commendable sixth place in this event.
The team then proceeded to the 10-meter rappel tower, where nerves began to unsettle. Tension hung in the air as the team, harnessed up and climbed up the stairs. As each member prepared to abseil down under the guidance of the rappel master, it was evident that many were grappling with signs and symptoms of panic attacks, body tremors, tachycardia, tears and perspiration. However, this did not deter our team from pushing forward. Witnessing our momentary hesitation, HRH the Duchess of Edinburgh, herself rushed to the tower with significant words of encouragement.
With royal encouragement, the team successfully completed the descent down the tower. The triumph was so significant that it warranted a tight royal hug, creating a memory that will forever linger in Cpl Dudley’s recollections. LCpl Holmes also has her own cherished memory, having bravely manoeuvred from an upside-down position to successfully scaling down the tower. The team was thrilled with their accomplishments, and the experience greatly bolstered their confidence.
Following that, Team QARANC faced a highly unfamiliar Canadian obstacle course, maintaining composure, and secured a sixth position yet again.