Page 51 - QARANC Spring 2024

Tackling
mountains and
two deserts, on
two wheels!
Cpl Jessie Rowlands, an adult nurse from JHG(S), was one of six service personnel who completed Badlands a 750km unsupported gravel ultra- cycling event in Sierra Nevada, Spain.
In the race’s fourth edition, 250 competitors braved the elements, tackling 14,800m of elevation and contended with temperatures of up to 37 degrees. Renowned as one of Europe’s most challenging races, the route for Badlands winds through two deserts and navigates the mountainous terrain of Sierra Nevada. However, the race took a significant turn for the worse four hours in when an abrupt weather change brought torrential rain.
Badlands was gruelling on mental and physical fronts. Participants had to be entirely self-sufficient, especially during the challenging desert sections where resources were scarce, and temperatures soared. Navigating technical terrain at night and riding on minimal sleep, athletes faced constant adjustments in strategies as the race unfolded.
Undertaking an extensive training program proved to be a game-changer for Cpl Rowlands and her pair, Capt Duncan (Royal Engineers). This program included riding King Alfred’s Way, a 350km loop around historic Wessex, completing a mountain bike foundation course, and embarking on a heat
The race also served as
a unifying platform, bringing together like-minded individuals from across the Army
acclimatisation program to best prepare for the demanding race conditions.
As a newcomer to gravel racing, Cpl Rowlands seized the opportunity to challenge herself early on, witnessing a significant improvement in her biking skills and confidence throughout her training. The race also served as a unifying platform, bringing together like-minded individuals from across the Army, highlighting a genuine interest in participating in ultra-events.
Cpl Rowlands and Capt Duncan were the first female pair to complete the arduous race, in a commendable time of 79 hours. Cpl Rowlands said: “I would like to thank the QARANC Association for their invaluable support, including a generous grant that facilitated my training and participation in the Badlands. I would like to complete in Badlands again this year, this time as a solo competitor. I am eager to test my training and capabilities.”
Cpl Jessie Rowlands (nee Lutwyche) Joint Hospital Group South
The Gazette QARANC Association 51