Page 93 - RAPTC Mind, Body & Spirit

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1 ROYAL SCHOOL OF MILITARY ENGINEERING
WO2 (QMSI) T J Richardson MBE RAPTC
Another exciting year at 1 Royal School of Military Engineering (RSME) and my final one before my next assignment. 1 RSME Regt is a phase 2B establishment with over 1000 personnel stationed at Chatham. During my tenure the PT wing have been very active in the delivery of PT. The gym staff consist of 4 LCpl’s, 4 Cpl’s and 4 SIO’s.
On my arrival it was evident that the instructors were of a good calibre and I have had the privilege to prepare five members who have successfully passed the RAPTC Selection Course. Those instructors include Sgt (SI) Robinson, Sgt Webster, Sgt Crame and awaiting commencement of the Class 1 Cse, LCpl’s Ballard and Mayon. 1 RSME during the past 48 months has proven to be a breeding ground for our Corps.
Daily PT is delivered to all members of the Regiment, following the ARTD PT syllabus. The facilities are fantastic and the Gymnasium, being one of the oldest in the Army built in 1885, is still in an immaculate condition. Besides the PTP the Regt focus on lots of additional training such as 3 CO’s competitions, Wainscot Mudder, Military skills and the Amherst 5. Whilst also promoting sport within the unit and high level Athletics and Boxing events.
Health is a huge part of Regimental life with the PT wing organising two health fairs annually. Fortunately we have received good support from Medway Health and the last health fair attracted lots of media interest – I found myself on ITV and Kent news!
A special memory from this year is the delivery of a Type 3 skiing expedition to Val Thorens and I was privileged to teach members of RHQ, which included CO, Adjt & RSM. Another moment to remember was attending a battlefield study which included a presentation on PT in WW1. I found myself visiting the RAPTC museum gaining some vital information prior to the study in Ypres, Belgium.
My personal highlight has been to complete a full Ironman which I did at Bolton. After a solid block of training and lots of pre-competitions, such as standard tri and 70.3 events, I was determined to give my best shot. After 12hrs and 41 mins of endurance I finally crossed the finish line witnessed by my family. My first words after finishing were “I will never ride a bike or run again!” I was fortunate to raise £5k for my chosen charity BRAKE. Subsequently I have signed up for 2 further IM events – I think I must have forgotten the pain!
As my time at 1 RSME comes to completion, I was delighted to successfully promote to WO1. My next assignment is to 12 Armd Inf Bde as the SMI PD in May 18. My time at Chatham has been fantastic; great staff, good solid trainees and excellent facilities combined with support from the RE CoC who understand the intent. I wish WO2 (QMSI) Dave Read best of luck for the future and I look forward to seeing members of the gym staff in the RAPTC very soon.
QMSI & Sgt (SI) Robinson QMSI Ironman QMSI & RSM Skiing expedition
QMSI Health Fair QMSI & WO1 (Corps SM) M Arthur Military skills