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16/10/2006: Commando Challenge - Report

Sunday was dry but a little cold as we left on the short drive to Bicton Arena to take part in the Royal Marines Commando Challenge 2006.

On arrival we saw the scale of the event, hundreds of people milling around, Gemini Radio on scene to provide music and Marines P.T. instructors barking out orders to anyone who cared to listen!

After meeting with all 27 of our team and attending the warm up session it was time to leave. The crowd gave us a great send off as we started the 2 mile (mainly uphill) run to the main section. Disaster struck within a mile as one of our team started to pull up with calf muscle problems and looked like dropping out. Luckily, he managed to run it off and finish the course.

After 2 miles a quick water stop then into the Marines Assualt course. Mud is what I remember most... mud and filthy water! We crawled through it, swam under it, rolled and jumped in it... everything possible over the 3 mile hilly course. (PHOTO: Mark Walker after the underwater tunnel)

Then, to finish the day, another 2 mile run back to base and the cheering crowds at the finish who gave all finishers a really great welcome.

Our day was great fun but marred by a serious injury to one of our team. As we approached a muddy water filled jump Elliot took off but landed really badly. As he was pulled from the mud his ankle was at 90 degrees to his leg and very clearly badly broken. Unfortunately our location meant that it took medics some time to get to us and even longer to get him to the closest ambulance. But, they managed it and he was taken to Exeter Hospital where he remains. Our very best wished to Elliot and hope he recovers soon.

The event raised over £140,000 for charity and I would, once again, like to thank my sponsors Singing legend Kenny J, All the nice people at Travel Algarve, Highweek Garage and Arthur Ryan & Co.

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Webselect News Article

16/10/2006: Commando Challenge - Report