I am delighted that we have kept alive the flame of winter sports after what has been a testing few years. The reopening of international travel has given more of our armed forces personnel the chance to participate and compete in winter sports; the military winter sports fraternity has risen to the challenge and delivered competitive events across a wide range of disciplines. Organising committees remained resilient and, often at short-notice, delivered safe and enjoyable events for our soldiers, sailors, Royal Marines and aviators.
A particular highlight for me was attending the Inter Services Snow Sports Championships in February where I had the opportunity to meet so many of our talented skiers, snowboarders and telemarkers. The competitive spirit, physical courage, sense of fair play and determination of the participants shone through; personal characteristics that will serve them well in their military careers.
I was also delighted that our Royal Patron, Her Royal Highness Sophie The Countess of Wessex joined us in Meribel and that we were able to thank her for her continued support. Similarly, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the event sponsors – without them we would not be able to operate and deliver world-class events.
Readers may already be aware that the Snow Sports Championships for 2023 will be delayed due to the Alpine World Championships taking place in Meribel in February. The excellent facilities and strong relationship with the team at Meribel is why we return year-on-year and I am sure you are all looking forward to getting back to the Alps in March 2023.
Thank you to all who help make winter sports a fantastic opportunity that we can continue to offer our people.
It is my great privilege to lead BT Defence, and I am delighted that over the last season we were able to join other sponsors to contribute towards Armed Forces Winter Sports. The muchwelcomed return to competitive events encouraged the values of each single service, which provide the foundation for the essential moral component of fighting power. It is for this reason that we choose to support you. High functioning organisations all have values, and these tend to include teamwork, competitive spirit/commitment, courage, respect, discipline, integrity, loyalty. This builds character, enhances morale and improves military effectiveness for whatever the future holds in this dangerous and uncertain world. Winter Sports require all these values too. I believe that they also closely match BT’s values as we seek to be the World’s most trusted connector of people, devices and machines. Our continued commitment to these sports reflects our confidence in our strategic relationship beyond the transactions of business, and we are proud to be a #nationalchampion alongside our service people.
We were delighted to be the Headline Sponsor for this year’s meet of the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Association at Meribel, which also included the honour of hosting many of the active participants and officials for dinner at BT Tower. BT’s passion is not just for Alpine though. We understand why this is such an important collection of sports that enable a range of disciplines to maximise participation and opportunity. As a former Army Winter Sports Vice President for Ice Sports, I am in awe of the Ice community’s demonstration of the values that I mentioned above. Whatever the discipline, Winter Sports is a means for the serving Armed Forces - to strive for excellence in demanding circumstances I am also increasingly interested in Ski Mountaineering, and I look with curiosity at how Defence choses to treat this discipline: sport or adventure training? This has echoes of the debate over mountain biking.
It is fabulous that we had the chance to be involved in the 21-22 season, especially through various recent pandemic-induced restrictions. Finally, I am sure that I speak not just for BT but for all other sponsors too by congratulating the organisers that have worked so hard to make the last season (and the next) possible, and we all wish the participants a successful and enjoyable year ahead.
Our forthcoming 2023 season will feel a little different to the usual pattern and for those who have been part of this association for several years I hope the changes feel fresh rather than disruptive. The major one has been forced upon us. With the World Cup being held in Meribel during our ‘usual week’ the Inter-Service Snow Sports Championships has been delayed to March. However, I’m delighted that the huge efforts made by the Championships committee and our hosts, the ESF and Meribel Tourisme, have allowed us to return to the heart of the Three Valleys for a 17th season. Importantly, the break between the single Service competitions and the ‘Inters’ will be offset by a training week in Meribel beforehand. So for those competitors selected for their Service team in 2023, there is potential for even more snow time this year.
March will of course be warmer than January and we know that the ESF will have to work hard to keep the Stade conditions at their best. For those competing and supporting there are benefits though, including longer ski days, more sunshine (break out the Airbus deckchairs!) and plenty of snow cover at high altitude. It will feel a bit different, and I’m sure you will let me know whether its an improvement or not.
Other changes are more subtle; the annual drinks reception was delayed to September and the BT Tower dinner will be in February. A mid-season dinner will give us a chance to get up to date with results from the Nordic Champs and Cresta, while hopefully whetting appetites for the Ice Champs and ISSSC a little later. So 2023 is something of an experiment and I look forward to finding out with you if it should set a new pattern in the years beyond.
Complementing this look ahead, the yearbook remains foremost a review, a celebration and fitting record of the achievements and efforts of all involved in the 2022 season. It was touch and go in the New Year with Covid resurgence and
travel restrictions impacting the single Service events. The Nordic event was sadly cancelled but we managed to hold a tri-service ice camp, an Inter Services Cresta championships and the snow-sports as well. I hope you enjoy reading the reflections and reminisces of those who made it a success.
2023 will mark my last year as Chairman after some 15 years in various roles with the association. It has been a privilege to work, laugh, ski, compete, meet and support every one of you, from the amazing competitors, the hugely dedicated organising committees, the secretariat in Aldershot, my fellow trustees who take on accountability for safety, finance and probity, the sponsors who bring colour and, yes, your moneywithout which nothing could happen. Thank you. See you on the slopes!
RN Alpine Championships 7 – 21 January 20203 Les Deux Alps, FRA
RAF Alpine Championships 7 – 21 January 2023 Saalbach/Hinteglemm, AUT
Army Telemark Championships – Ex Telemark Titan 7 -19 January 2023 Pralognan La Vanoise, FRA
Army Snowboard Championships – Ex Snow Jack 14 – 27 January 2023 Stubai, AUT
Army Ski Championships – Ex Lion’s Challenge 17 – 27 January 2023 Serre Chevalier, FRA
Nordic Army, Inter-Services and Brit Championships 25 January - 10 February 2023 Ex Rucksack Ruhpolding, GER
Cresta Inter– Services Championships 1 February 2023 St Moritz, CH
British Ski Championships 9 -14 February 2023 Bormeo, ITY
Inter-Services Ice Sports Championships 27 February – 3 March 2023 Lillehammer, NOR
Inter-Services Snow Sports Championships Meribel, FRA Training Week 4 - 10 March 2023 Competition Week 11 – 17 March 2023
Brits Snowboard Championships 29 March – 12 April 2023 Laax, CH
2024 ISSSC Meribel, FRA 4 – 9 February 2024 2025 ISSSC Meribel, FRA 1 – 8 February 2025
After an enforced gap of one year it was a great delight to return to Meribel in 2022 for a 15th time, prolonging our association to a 16th year. In the words of the Duke of Wellington it was a “close run thing” with the Omicron variant and subsequent closure of French borders imperilling the Championships for a second year. Having decided to hold our nerve we were rewarded with a lifting of host nation restrictions in mid-January and the show was back on the road.
This is not to say that all was straight forward; the Omicron variant wreaked havoc with the single Service winter Sports programmes across all three disciplines and their achievement in fielding full and competitive squads at such short notice is commendable. Equally our three race committees, specifically their Chairs, Technical Delegates and Chiefs of Race engaged in significant planning and risk mitigation to ensure that we raced in a safe and competitive environment. Finally, as ever, none of this would be possible without our partners and sponsors and their flexibility, positive attitude and attendance at ISSSC 22 were key in the successful delivery of the Championships.
To the racing and as I alluded to in the paragraph above this was undertaken in a fiercely competitive environment with the usual array of highs, lows, spills and thrills, it was great to be back! You will find more detail on the notable team and individual performances in the
articles from the discipline chairs. We were also privileged to host our Royal Patron HRH the Countess of Wessex, herself back on snow for the first time after the pandemic, her charm and generosity of spirit at various events and prize giving ceremonies was greatly appreciated by all.
Finally, this was a critical year for ISSSC with regards to our future, 2023 sees the Alpine World Cup come to Meribel and as such they are unable to host us in our usual early February slot. This presented an opportunity to assess our options and we reached out to resorts across the Alps to see whether they would wish to bid for the ISSSC contract. It quickly became apparent that ISSSC has grown significantly in size and scope during our 16 years in Meribel with most resorts being unable to host a concurrent tri-discipline event to the high standard we have become accustomed to. A shortlist of Meribel, Val D’Isere and Tignes opted to bid for the contract and a detailed reconnaissance took place. All three offered viable propositions within achievable budgets with various pros and cons to all three resorts. After reviewing the proposals the committee are delighted to confirm that we will be staying in Meribel for a further 3 years. This will require us to move ISSSC 23 to the month of March before resuming our usual spot in February for ISSSC 24. I hope that we will enjoy some glorious conditions, I can guarantee some ferociously competitive racing and I look forward to catching up with you all very soon.
It is with much pleasure that Airbus once again supports the Armed Forces Winter Sports Association. As a company we are one of the long-term sponsors of this event. Why? Because it is a pretty unique combination of focus, teamwork, competition and bravery across the Services.
These are all values and behaviours that we seek to emulate with our own teams developing the latest pioneering technology solutions to support the UK's defence and security needs.
In these troubled and uncertain times continuous innovation is not an end in itself. We push technological boundaries because our customers - you - need the very best equipment to fulfill your missions. You operate in a world where information superiority has become the next frontier. For Airbus, this means that we will continue to build the best platforms, but also the best systems to use them in.
You are all individuals competing against the hill, the clock and each other, but more than that you are part of a bigger team and it is this teamwork that resonates with us. Airbus is the living proof of what Europe can achieve when it combines long-term vision, industrial expertise and a spirit of collaboration. We were founded over 50 years ago to establish a counterpoint to the US dominance in commercial aviation. Few believed we would succeed. Today, we have grown into one of the leading aerospace companies in the world and a major European player in defence and space.
ISSS has existed for even longer than we have and this demonstrates a certain resilience and some would say a sustainable business model! However we know how difficult it is to lay on these championships and we appreciate the effort that goes on behind the scenes. We would pay tribute to all those who work tirelessly to make the event a success. Sustainability nowadays is key to everything, and we are no different. Airbus intends to lead aviation’s journey towards clean aerospace, reducing the carbon footprint of our products, sites and supply chain. We stand up for human rights and foster inclusion in everything we do. We build our business on the foundation of safety and a commitment to quality. It is about doing the right thing and in all the time we have supported UKAFWSA we feel this has been a guiding principle for all.
Finally, it is the commitment of all those on the hill - whether racers or those in support - that we salute. You maybe in the mountains one week, but we also know that in the following weeks you could be on the front line. What you do matters and this is why we as a company need to be on duty for you; because you are on duty for everyone else when it matters most.
May we wish you all a great season and great racing.
Chris Shaw Chief Operating Officer, Thales UK
I am delighted to continue Thales UK’s support for the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Championships.
Thales UK has a long history of support for our Armed Forces and we are proud to be able to extend this into the sporting arena where we see the highest levels of military camaraderie and team spirit.
The intense level of competition shown at these championships demonstrate the ultimate professionalism of all of the services, whilst at the same time masking the sheer amount of hard work and training that has gone into getting to this point. This is a fantastic opportunity to catch up with colleagues and our partners across industry and also develop closer links with the Armed Forces.
We understand that team-work, dedication, tenacity and professionalism are at the heart of military values and events such as the Winter Sports Championship strengthen these fundamental values and spirit.
I am also particularly pleased to announce that one of very own employees has been selected for the Great Britain Women’s Bobsleigh squad this season. With our support, Maddison Illsley is now dividing her time between working as a defence systems engineer and competing in GB events across Europe. We understand that core professional values and sporting excellence are complementary to a team ethic and we wish her and the squad the very best of luck.
Thales UK is a proud signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant and closely support the Armed Forces Community. We recognise the value serving personnel, reservists, veterans and military families bring to our business and benefit from their training, knowledge and experience. We are always keen to recruit from within this highly skilled and professional population.
May I take this opportunity to wish all the competitors the best of luck, and hope for some good ice and snow!
Sqdn Ldr Heather Ratnage-Black RAF Director ISISC and Chair Skeleton
Lt Col Helen Smyth RAMC Chair Bobsleigh
Finally, we were able to get back on the ice after a 2 year break. The event was only confirmed in early Feb 22 and then final planning began in earnest to get all the bobsleigh, luge and skeleton athletes and staff from all 3 services out to Igls in Austria to enjoy a week of competition. This was not going to be an ordinary Inter Services…… the single Services missed their novice camps and competitions so it was decided that to get mass participation the Inter Services should be rebranded a Festival of Sport and an Adapted Ice Sports Championship. The Inter Service Championships is always 4 race runs over 2 days and this year, this was adapted to form 2 days of racing, one day for the novices who were in their first couple of
seasons of sliding and then a senior’s race for those who had experienced racing before.
All 3 services had spent a week on ice immediately prior to the Inter Service week and this was an opportunity to develop their novices before the Inter Service training commenced on Mon 28 Feb. What was fantastic to see at this event were the athletes who had recently returned from the Beijing Winter Olympic Games sliding and who were helping the novices. This is the beauty of ice sports. You can get a
complete mix of experience on a track, and everyone will help each other out. It truly is a close knit community. Although the athletes will only get 2 training runs a day, many hours are spent at the track, sorting out the sleds and walking the track.
We were fortunate to have many very experienced coaches out in Igls and the coaches don’t just watch their own service athletes; they will provide feedback to all. In the bobsleigh contingent coaching the RN/RM was Lee Johnston, the Army were coached by Sean Olsson and Capt Sarah Smith with the RAF being coached by Sgt Ross Brown. Skeleton and Luge coaches saw the usual suspects trackside with Carl Beet, Sid Lawrence, Robert ‘PJ’ Pritchard-Jones, Graham Holmes and Mike Howard ensuring the athletes had the best opportunities for success.
Our Olympic athletes were Mne Taylor Lawrence and LCpl Nick Gleeson who were fresh from pushing Brad Hall in the 4-man race (achieving a superb 6th place overall). Nick also pushed Brad in the 2 man race and achieved 11th place (even after crashing on the 3rd run). LCpl Shanwayne Stephens was back in the RAF driving seat after driving the 2 and 4-man bobsleigh for Jamaica at Beijing. It was tremendous to see LCpl Gleeson jump into the front seat after his season on the international circuit as a brakeman. All the athletes were happy to chat about their Olympic experience, inspiring the novices as they start their bobsleigh journeys.
Training runs took place Mon-Wed for skeleton and bobsleigh with luge training extending into day 4 Race draws were made on the completion of training and then it was down to the athletes to make their final sled preparations and focus on the task ahead. All staff collectively manage the race area and jury positions for all 3 disciplines and bobsleigh were fortunate to have Ian Richardson, co-Director GB Bobsleigh and jury member for the IBSF, who kindly accepted our request to be our independent delegate on the race jury. Even though we were running some novice races, adhering as close as possible to IBSF race rules is always preferred to give all the sliders their first experience of racing.
Race day dawned with skeleton taking the early slot on the track. Novices raced day 1 and it was delightful to see the next generation of athletes get their first
competition under their belts. Senior athletes were racing day 2 and the support they offered to the junior competitors was second to none. Race day 2 for skeleton showed that the drive an passion for the sport is alive and well despite the COVID induced break for all. As this was an adapted event the competitors were all briefed that this would not be classed as an Inter Service Championships for this season only and there would be no team prizes. The results for both the novice and senior races can be found below. Luge kept to their format of race day on the Friday and it was highly encouraging to see new faces in the field as well as more experienced sliders. The impending war in Ukraine had prevented UKAF Luge Chair, Ed Rolls, from attending due to his day job but he was keeping one eye on the unfolding events when work allowed.
Bobsleigh raced in the afternoon slot and the first bobsleigh down the track each afternoon of racing was the “spur” bob, testing all the clocks prior to the first race run being started. The pilot of the “spur” bob was none other than Ash Morris who had returned to the RN/RM team this season as management after retiring from the RM the previous year. Everyone was delighted to see Ash back and great to see this veteran of the sport get back into a sled and drive. In the novice women’s race there were 6 teams and there were 8 teams in the men’s novice race. Having had 2 years away from sliding, to see so many novice teams competing bodes well for the future of military bobsleigh. The grass root development of the sport is essential and to have such a variety of different experiences on the bobsleigh track during the Adapted Ice Sports Championships contributed to it being a memorable event –from complete novices to Olympic medallists. What other sport allows for this span of experience? There were a few crashes during the races, but our excellent medical staff were always right there on trackside and huge thanks must go to SSgt Tash Sinclair and Sgt Lindsey Walker who spent hours at the track making sure that individuals could continue to slide safely. The men’s senior race and ladies open race took place on the Fri afternoon and there were 5 male teams racing and 4 female teams racing. It was another great afternoon of racing and everyone who participated in the Championships was just delighted to have the opportunity to slide.
As this was an Adapted Ice Sports Championships, the decision was taken not to compete for any Service Team Trophies. It was agreed that there would be trophies in each race category for the top 3 places. Instead of the traditional combined prize giving on the last evening of competition, each discipline would hold their prize giving at the end of their races. Therefore, the bobsleigh prize giving took place by the finish curve once the final race had been concluded on the Fri afternoon. This then gave everyone ample time to sort out all the bobsleigh kit and get it loaded onto
ready for the long journey back to the UK. We welcomed Lt Col Karl Johnston RM who has recently taken over as Vice Chair of the RN Winter Sports Association. Karl is an ex-bobsleigher having competed in the 2006 Turin Winter Olympic Games and he started his bobsleigh career on the Army Ice Camp back in 2000. Karl is a veteran of a number of Inter Service Championships, so it was fitting that he presented the trophies at the Adapted Ice Sports Championships.
Steve Wadey Chief Executive Officer, QinetiQ
I am once again delighted that QinetiQ is able to maintain its support for the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Association (UKAF WSA). As the shadow cast by Covid recedes, I look forward to another successful InterServices Snow Sports Championship (ISSSC), returning for the 2022-23 season to the Meribel resort that continues to host these championships so very well.
We are extremely proud of our collaboration and association with the UK Armed Forces. We applaud the way that military colleagues across all operating domains have continued to deliver amazing capability throughout the global pandemic, and are now working to address the increasingly challenging European and global security environment. We understand the ongoing efforts of our military colleagues in delivering the required outcomes from last year’s Integrated Review, maintaining core military output and also responding to the implications and impacts of the continuing Ukraine crisis and the changing threat to European security. We are privileged to play our part in enabling military capability, and value the close and enduring relationships we have with our partners and customers in Defence.
The impressive achievements of our Armed Forces are only possible because of the inspiring people that make up today’s services who rise to all challenges with unswerving loyalty and a characteristic ‘can do’ approach. In these difficult times, the role that sport and adventurous training plays is arguably more important than ever in retaining and developing inspiring people within the Armed Forces. We remain proud to enable this through our continuing support for the UKAF WSA, and especially for the inspirational Armed Forces Para-Snow sport Team (AFPST).
As always, the dedication, courage and team-work displayed by all ISSSC competitors and those in the other UKAF WSA competitions throughout the season is humbling. These attributes, together with a relentless focus on performance, serve as a great example to us all in whatever we do, whether in industry or the military.
I and colleagues across the Defence enterprise wish all ISSSC competitors’ safe training and racing this season, and look forward to supporting you all on the slopes in early 2023
“Obviously, you always want to win, but you want to win by skiing a race that you’re proud of, and you feel like you really challenged yourself and left it all out there.”
Bode Miller
Following the cancellation of two of the three single Service Alpine Championships, the viability of the 2022 Inter-Service Alpine Championships was for some time in considerable doubt. Thankfully after holding our nerve, the Covid situation across Europe improved and the Championship was given the green light. With the disruption to the normal racing and preparation schedule it was always going to be a huge challenge to pull off a full set of races. To achieve this several changes were introduced to ensure that we could race in a meaningful, competitive manner, whilst mitigating against the reduced training and competitive schedule our athletes had undergone during the season. Following careful consultation and consideration it was agreed that Downhill was achievable. By lowering the start (as we do some years during bad weather) we were able to lower the risk to an acceptable level. After a study of the weather conditions and some de-confliction with Telemark (who share the race piste) we had a race programme and the competition, against all the odds, was on.
Winning a ski race a race can come down to a hundredth of a second, the difference between elation on the podium and the despair of 4th place often rests on the finest of margins. One must consider this when observing the concept of team racing (unique to the British Military) which prioritises a team result above that of an individual. This brings out the best in our people, whether this is in the form of additional pressure to not let down the team, to bank that result; or perhaps an athlete is told to ski within that extra margin of safety forfeiting individual glory for their team. It is this selflessness and ability to deliver under pressure, combined with the moral and physical courage required that make the Inter Service Championships the spectacle that it is.
It remains a huge privilege for racers selected to compete at the highest level of their respective Services to be able to race on facilities that are literally World Class. This year, as ever, the racing would take place on the Roc de Fer, famous as the venue for the 92 Olympic Downhill. First up was the Downhill and even with the small reduction in start height tit remained the longest and most technical Downhill on the Winter Sports Calendar. With Racers reaching speeds in excess of 75 miles per hour the mental preparation for this challenge is equally important as the physical which involved the usual mandatory practice runs. Despite some of our athletes not having raced a Downhill for over 2 years they were not found wanting.
The pace, commitment and competitive spirit on display was as fierce as any of the Committee had witnessed.
The day of the Blue Ribband Downhill race gave us perfect racing conditions and it was to be the Army (so often the speed specialists) that capitalised. A clean sweep saw the Army winning both the Men and Ladies team competition, the coveted DH Champion mantles went to Spr Duncan Kuwall and Maj Jen Kehoe. First blood had been drawn; how would the other Services respond?
Next up was the Super G and in the Ladies competition the RAF struck back winning the team event with Cpl Rachael Hughes, their captain, leading by example and winning the individual event, the Ladies competition was alive with all to play for at the halfway mark. In the Men’s competition it was a different story, Spr Duncan Kuwall again led the charge and ably supported by his team mates, the Army again secured the team and individual honours with the RAF falling further behind. For the Senior Service the race was a disaster, two of the four “did not Finish” which saw them disqualified from the team competition and out of the running for the overall event. This is the original cardinal sin at ISSSC and a chastened Royal Navy team had much to ponder that evening, the Men’s competition was now a two horse race, advantage Army.
So on to the Slalom, the most technical of all our events, a tantalising smorgasbord of tight twists and turns, straddles and verticalles, ecstasy and despair. For the RAF Ladies this has often been their best event, could they open a gap today? As for the Men, could the rampaging Army team be reined in, or would they stretch their lead out of sight? What next for the Royal Navy Men after their calamitous Super G? We were not to be disappointed…
In the Ladies event the RAF team were down to only four starters, this pressure told and a huge error saw them down to three remaining ladies for the second run, they could afford no mistakes. Led by their captain Cpl Rachael Hughes they made none, winning the team and individual. To the Men, the Army, high on confidence and
swagger put down the early markers and the RAF found no reply. However, something remarkable was occurring with the Royal Navy, desperate to make amends. Whilst wiser heads might have counselled caution the Royal Navy Men in the finest traditions of their Service, launched at the Slalom with fearless abandon. Fortune favours the bold and this was the case today. Scenes of wild jubilation from the Royal Navy as they swept home the Team and individual honours (AB Graeme Price). The Army pipped to the line left shell shocked, the RAF far behind.
As the final day dawned the Ladies competition would all be decided on the last race with the RAF and the Army neck and neck. In the Men’s competition the Army just had to get their racers down and the overall competition was all but secured. Would we see an upset? Would the Army Men buckle under the pressure? Would the Royal Navy Men double down and win the Giant Slalom, leaving us wondering what could have been? Perhaps the Royal Navy Ladies and RAF men (quiet so far) would go out with a bang?
After all the excitement of the Slalom, it was very much back to business as usual. The RAF Ladies made no mistakes and set the pace, the Army and Royal Navy had no reply, a hat trick of victories for the RAF team and Cpl Rachael Hughes. In the Men’s competition AB Graeme Price yet again flew for the Royal Navy winning the
individual, however, he was lonely at the top with his team mates far behind. The Army had a point to make, they methodically crushed the competition placing all their nine racers in the top ten, a brutal statement of depth and talent.
So, we had our winners, in the overall competition the Army Men and RAF Ladies shared the honours. This was mirrored in the individual competition with Spr Duncan Kuwall (Army) and Cpl Rachael Hughes RAF as our combined Individual Champions. Finally a mention in dispatches for Capt Tom Windsor-Clive (Army) and Capt Emily Wilson (Army) who were crowned best Newcomers.
Another Championship ended, one unlike any other, a delightful, mesmerising, socially distanced spectacular, what a great event this is. Most importantly each Service tasted victory, much to celebrate, much to rue, much to look forward to in 2023 – see you then!
Reachal is, as always, proud to support those who serve, including sponsoring UK Armed Forces Winter Sports.
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I am personally looking forward to seeing everyone in Méribel and introducing some new colleagues to this outstanding event.
Lieutenant Colonel Naomi Mack
I feel we should start reflecting on the effect that the pandemic has had across all our lives, for many personally, the large contributions made to supporting the NHS within the UK whilst still managing to conduct operations abroad, in support of disaster, peace keeping and upstream conflict prevention, this year has been a tough one. Having understandably cancelled the competition in 2021, the committee, the Sports control board, the sponsors, and all those working behind the scenes ensured that an event was run this year and I believe the outcome cannot be described as anything less than epic.
The competitors, with less time on snow than ever, came out in force to make this championship a memorable one. With restrictions adhered across the board, with sponsors and competitors separated, no external events or grand opening and closing ceremonies, with safety in the uppermost of our minds to assure a fair and safe competition, all involved pulled it out of the bag.
This year felt different – I suspect due to the sheer joy of being out on snow, added to clear skies, and on Day 1, one of the best shaped, fair, and challenging boarder cross courses we have had at the championships. The ESF worked tirelessly to get the course ready for our arrival which meant that the athletes had the best start to training.
All three services pulled out their top guns as well as some newbies, although there was a notable absence due to supporting activities to Covid that saw a reduction in the overall team strength. This called for an unusual revision of how we were to score the champs – in order to ensure that teams with less remained competitive. This called for the top 8 men instead of 10 competing in the knockouts, and the top 4 women from each service. This reduction made for no less of a competition however. The boarder cross was fiercely fought, with fear of weather coming in, the hill team needed to ensure a slick race was run.
The grand final was a split with four of the seasoned riders vying for top place. A strongly contested finish saw them over the line in a close pack with Flt Lt Patrick Morris, consolidating his victory from the last champs in 2020, surging to the finish line ahead of the 2 Army riders, Sgt Dale Gallagher, and Sven CSgt Benevides, and the RN rider Mne Chris Harrington respectively. It must be noted that it was clear that this was going to be a close run Service position, with the top 9 finishers contributing 3 from each service.
The ladies race was no less fraught: the RAF looked the most threatening on paper with a seasoned team, sadly the RN were unable to field a full team this year due to operation requirements, which pushed this into an RAF Army head to head in the final. It was Maj Jess Drew who really excelled this year, just pushing ahead of Cpl Jasmine Furber (RAF) to take the win for the Army. Third was Gnr Jordan Buckley and 4th the multiple time winner of the Champs and the RAF Team Capt, Wg Cdr Claire Collis. LSET Aaby Aldridge held 5th for RN, keeping them in the game. This start promised a fight ahead.
The scoring this year for the team competition also changed – worked out on finishing bib alone rather than FIS individual scores – this meant for a tighter competition, and less between the top riders, and only 2 points between the RAF and ARMY ladies, however with the Army finishing 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 6th, they screeched ahead of the RAF creating a 15 point gap to breach. Again as ever thank you to BFBS, our longest running sponsor and indeed of the event! The location this year ensured visits from many, including Her Majesty Countess Sophie of Wessex, and all competitors rose to the challenge and put on an exceptional well fought fight. Presentations this year were held up the hill, outside and socially distanced, also enabling the final presentation to be kept to a minimum due to Covid.
Excellent weather and conditions made the Parallel Slalom (PSL) qualifiers at Mottaret a swift cull: the ladies qualifying 8 of the 9 top seeded riders, with the few falls from the men creating an all to work for second heat. The grand floodlit finals followed on that evening at the Stade, Meribel. Despite the lack of Crepes this year, the sponsors and spectators turned out in force, and as ever were met with an outstanding competition, thrills through falls, gasps and general shock of disaster! An initial opener between the Sec of Champs, Maj Rob Ronz, against the Director, Gen Jez Bennett, seeing Rob take victory for the first time (followed by an unprecedented exclamation of joy) laid the foundation for an exciting event; and the riders were not found wanting.
The last eight men through to the quarter final saw only one outsider, with Sgt Martin Boon (RAF knocking out one of the Army stalwart competitors, on his last championships, Lt Col Si Gough (seeded 6). The Army had the strength in numbers with 7 of 16 through, but this soon evened out by the semi-final, with 2 Army, 1 RAF and 1 RN. A surprise knock out of Fl Lt Paddy Morris in the semi finale led to RAF v RAF petite finale, with CSgt Sven Benevides vs Sgt David Grant both vying for the top spot for the Army. An initial first run saw a narrow margin between them – Grant took it wide on a cut up top section of the blue and gained a lead, and an incredible second shout saw Grant catch up to result in a dead heat! This has never occurred before, noting that the trimming gear measures 1/100ths of a second. This called for a small recess whilst the Technical Delegate, Chief of Race, Chair (with his TD knowledge!) called an extraordinary discussion and to consult the FIS rules. In an epic result, the rules dictated two 1sts for Army, with Army taking the team prize. The ladies was no less contentious….
The ladies PSL event saw the RAFs Claire Collis effortlessly move through to the final with, with LSET Aaby Aldridge from the RN keeping out the Army from the Grande finale. A hard fought close fight ensued, with Aaby performing at the top of her game and leaving no room mistakes – Gold for RN Silver for RAF and a bronze for Cpl Fiona Ross (Army) keeping them in the team competition.
At this point, the Mens’ Army Team had put a good wedge between them and the other two Services in the team competition, but with the new scoring system they were very much ‘catchable’ – and the Ladies competition was down to the wire with every point counting for the final event: Slopestyle. This year saw another first, a try of a new format, no qualifying runs, just a full training session that the Judges could ‘calibrate’ against: in effect, seeing in advance the runs that the riders will do on the day, but without the pressure of qualifiers. This led to a surprising effect – the competitors went after more tricks, rather than the pursuance of the all-important ‘clean run’, as well as getting a lot more training time on the actual course that would be used in the finals. The teams self-selected their top riders to compete (removing the risk of a massive wipe-out and a deselect in the qualifying runs!).
The ladies slopestyle had four riders vying for the top position, with the RAF really showing depth in the pack. The first run saw Collis (RAF) take the pole position going into the second run, just pipping Aldridge’s run with a smooth 360 and some big grabs. Aaby in second, pulled a bigger run but was still a point off – this meant
gold for Collis, silver for Aaby from the RN and a strong performance from Pte Izzy Howe keeping the Army in the team competition with Bronze.
The men’s pack was swiftly divided – with the final run coming down to the wire –but Paddy held on tightly and secured himself the Gold, with a close run silver going to Mne Chris Harrington (RN), bronze going to CSjt Sven Benevides from the Army.
Overall, the Men’s slopestyle team event was a closely fought competition with Army just managing to keep ahead of the RAF with 3 points in it. Ladies competition saw the RAF squeeze out the Army by 1 point.
The best trick award and winner of the Nelson Pratt memorial award went to Flt Lt Paddy Morris with a 50/50 Rail with a frontside 360 off. Best newcomer was awarded to Cpl (RAF) Jasmine Furber, with steady performances across the board in her first champs – more to come from this talented competitor.
The women’s overall individual competition saw Wg Cdr Claire Collis hold off LSET Aaby Aldridge by just 2.5 points to take the gold, with Maj Dress Drew getting bronze. In the men's competition Flight Flt Lt Paddy Morris followed up on his 2020
win, with the Army’s CSjt Sven Benevides taking the second overall position followed by Mne Chris Harrington from the RN taking the third overall.
The UK Armed Forces Snowboard overall ladies’ team competition was won by the RAF, with the Army 5 points behind. The men’s team competition was won by the Army, who managed to see off the challenges of the other 2 services by a good margin, having secured the team event prizes, with the RAF and RN coming second and third respectively.
This year, despite the restrictions in place, and less time on snow for many of the competitors, we managed to produce a hugely fought competition., With the sponsors, competitors, hill teams and committee all pulling their weight to make this happen, creating a safe environment in which to compete, ensured an excellent time was had by all. We remain in Meribel next year however the competition will move to March due to a clash with the World cup being held in Feb, and look forward to further easing of restrictions and a continued move back to reality.
Working as a team is key to success and achieving outstanding results – an attribute that is shown in great amounts by all who take part in this event.”
We are proud to be supporting the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Association again for the 16th year. We are delighted to continue our sponsorship for the RAF Snowboarding Team, enabling opportunities for the team and supporting the development and introduction of new members to the squad.
It is probably safe to say that the past year has been one of our most busy and challenging years. Adapting to life with Covid hasn’t been plane sailing, however focussing on the positives we have seen great innovative ideas come to life and teamwork thrive. In addition, throughout the past year Voyager has played an essential role in Defence for the UK and our allied nations, reinforcing NATO’s response to the Russia-Ukraine crisis. Supporting Typhoon aircraft, Voyager offers additional fuel for the fighters, enabling greater range and endurance which demonstrates the reach of UK air power to support NATO’s defence mission.
Using our civil registered aircraft, we have been able to provide additional support to the RAF and our allied nations. Provided free of charge, we transported vital NHS medical supplies from the UK to Poland to support those in need in Ukraine and flew a team of Ukrainian Veterans and their families from Poland to the UK to take part in the US Warrior Games – a US competition for wounded, injured or ill service personnel. In addition, with the return of the civil aviation market, we provided a successful commercial flying programme for Jet2.com, supporting their operations throughout the Summer Season.
It has been an incredibly busy year and one that has been achieved through the unfailing dedication of the Voyager Force, our fantastic whole force team of military and civilian personnel. Looking back at the first half of 2022, our fleet of 14 aircraft flew 1,700 sectors to 44 different countries, transporting over 150,000 passengers and delivered 14,000 tonnes of fuel to 1,900 receiving aircraft.
From all at AirTanker, we wish the teams the very best of health and good luck in the games this year!
Phill Blundell CEO, AirTanker Ltd
Steve Tsirtsonis Director of Defense - Endace
We are excited to once again be a sponsor of the UKAFWSA. It is always a wonderful opportunity to witness the outstanding performances of competitors, to catch up with old friends, and to make some great new friends too.
Endace is a proud supporter of many armed forces sports events, and the UKAFWSA is always a highlight of the year. I am always impressed by the wonderful spirit of the UKAFWSA. While intensely competitive, it is also always conducted in a friendly, supportive and convivial atmosphere, and the achievements of all the competitors are celebrated with
genuine pride from everybody in what their comrades have accomplished. It truly is a credit to our armed forces and Endace feels very privileged to be a part of it.
The organisation of the UKAFWSA is an incredible feat of logistics and the team does an amazing job year after year. The event is truly a tribute to the professionalism, dedication and teamwork of the Armed Forces. In these uncertain global times, it is reassuring to know the people dedicated to the defence of this country are of such calibre and integrity. Our thanks to you all.
With the latest COVID variant continuing to throw curve balls and an upcoming world crisis to contend with, agility and adaptably were the order of the day in enabling a highly successful Inter-Services Telemark Championships, and it would be remiss not to highlight the remarkable efforts of the Organising Committee, our Meribel partners and, of course, our Sponsors all of whom ‘held their nerve’ to deliver a fantastic event.
With the cancellation of Ex Telemark Titan, in Pralognan la Vanoise (PLV) France, which normally comprises the British Championships, as well as the Army and RN single Service Championships, and the RAF Alpine Championships succumbing to the impact of COVID, all 3 Services had to adapt their pre-event training regimes. Building on lessons learned in 2019/20, the Army conducted a shortened camp in PLV, focussing development areas on jump practice, start-gate drills and skate training. The RN Telemark Team joined fellow RN Alpine Ski and Snowboard Teams to conduct a 2-week training camp at Tignes. This afforded a great chance to train with other snow sport discipline team members and provided an opportunity to ‘convert’ one of their Alpine racers to Telemark. For the RAF, the impact was more profound: whilst they conducted a successful Development Camp in Tignes in December, they only achieved limited race training at UK indoor slopes so faced a daunting week in Meribel.
With notable absences of some of the younger ‘big hitters’ from both the RN and Army teams and sub-optimal preparation for everyone, delivering a safe Championship was, more than ever, at the forefront of the organising committee’s thoughts. Despite best efforts, a combination of factors led to only the Army Team managing to field a full Squad. This led to a request to reduce the Team Championship from 6 with 4 counting racers to 5 with 3 counting. Testament must go to the Army’s sporting ethos (as clearly this was not to their benefit!) that this decision was universally supported.
As always, the Championships commenced with the Balfour Beatty Giant Slalom, albeit a day later than normally programmed to enable additional, much needed training. This year we were honoured to have HRH The Countess of Wessex present the medals and with Captain Stefan Hurst (RLC), taking a convincing win following a 6-year absence from the Army Team, Colour Sergeant Steve Farrant (RM) taking 2nd place, with his first podium finish in 6 years on the RN team, and Staff Sergeant Danny Johnson (RE) in Bronze we saw a flavour of how the Championships would unfold; all 3 podiumed in both subsequent races. After a phenomenally brave performance from the RAF team, who finished with a combined time only 7 and 4 seconds behind the RN and Army respectively, it was the team event which looked most likely to be hardest fought and at this stage it looked as though the Army’s sportsmanship might cost them the championship!
With one race in the bag, disaster struck. After one of the race committee testing positive for COVID, the whole team were required to isolate for 24hrs whilst awaiting PCR results. Miraculously, no further cases where identified, and demonstrating the agility and adaptability previously mentioned, the race programme was adjusted to allow 2 races – the Classic and Sprint Classic to be conducted on Thursday. This meant that despite the devastating loss of the BMT Parallel Sprint, and huge apologises to BMT for that, we still had a viable Championship. The BT Telemark Classic followed on another glorious day, and despite the cancellation of the ISSSC Barbeque, and accompanying sickening smell of burgers as the athletes cross the finishing line in this brutal race, it was another superb event. The Podium participants remained the same, but this time Staff Sergeant Danny Johnson beat Steve Farrant to the Silver medal position. A strong performance from the RAF’s Squadron Leader Pat Mitchell, who took 4th place, saw the RAF team again demonstrably closing in on the other 2 Services teams, but it was the Army who took victory in the team race, with the RN in a close Second place.
After a very tough Classic race, the Teams’ resilience really came to the fore in the newly re-scheduled Advalus ‘Night’ Sprint Classic. Not only another tough race, but a power cut to the lift and floodlights caused further delay and put overall Championship success into jeopardy. However, as always, the relentless professionalism of the Meribel Hill Team, led by the unflappable Yannick Favieres saved the day. With only minutes until cancellation, they had the power back on, and we were away. Podium results mirrored the Classic with the Army taking 1st and 2nd and despite an incredibly valiant effort from RN Team Captain Gordon MCrae (RM) and Lt Cdr Ramsay Shaw (RN) who followed up Colour Sergeant Steve Farrant to take 3rd, 4th and 5th places they weren’t quite quick enough beat the Army. This meant the overall Championship went to the British Army for the first time in 6 years. Overall individual results: 1st Captain Stephan Hurst (Army), 2nd Staff Sergeant Danny Johnson (Army) and 3rd Colour Sergeant Steve Farrant (RM/RN).
The ISSSC Telemark community is defined by the comradeship and respect between our teams which this uniquely physically and mentally relentless sport engenders, and it was again great to see new faces competing. Of note, congratulations to two new Army development skiers Capt Alex Leslie (RE) and 2Lt Nigel Foskett (PWRR). Both performed extremely well with Capt Leslie achieving the Best Newcomer award. Skiing for the RN, Sgt Andrew Spain, the ‘Alpine convert’ competed in the GS, but sadly picked up an injury during an Alpine race
that took him out for the rest of the Championship. And finally, congratulations to female competitors, Wing Commander Alex Smyth, Flight Lieutenant Sarah Shave as well as Flight Lieutenant Ben Tawny who all debuted for the RAF in the ISSSC Telemark Sprint and who show great promise for the future.
Wing
I am delighted that Newton is supporting UKAF WSA for the first time. We’ve proudly worked across UK defence for the last 22 years and feel very privileged to now be part of these fantastic events.
Having worked closely with members of the Armed Forces for so many years, we know how much value a focus beyond operational commitments has on wellbeing, performance and self-discipline. We’re thrilled to be able to support the UKAF WSA and for some of our team to be part of the action.
Newton’s culture is shaped by the principles of fun, friendship and high performance and this is something that we see aligned with UKAF WSA and the championships in Meribel. We’re looking forward to witnessing the competitions; building our friendships with the people we know and making new friends with those we don’t.
At Newton every aspect of our business is designed around delivering results for our clients. We bring together diverse thinkers and deliver as one team –moving mountains and taking on the complexity that others walk away from.
See you in the mountains!
Ian
President for L3Harris’ Intelligence and Cyber International division: As a forces friendly employer, L3Harris maintains a strong affiliation with the Armed Forces community and supports those who have served or are serving. By continuing our support of the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Association, we hope to continue making a positive difference to the inspirational people who make our world safer.
Menzies, Vice
This season was a welcome return to sliding after a few fallow years of lockdowns and grudging disappointment. But as the saying goes, every cloud has a silver lining, and while there was not the chance to compete last year, there was at least an opportunity to check, maintain and even acquire some new equipment. Since 2020, the Army have relocated their store from Ilford to its new (and hopefully permanent) home in Bicester, and excitingly the Navy have managed to fund, design and construct a practice start ramp for the use of all three services. Previously, there have been no UK-based training facilities for ramp starts for Luge: this has meant that training for those in the UK has been difficult, and often has relied on just two weeks’ worth of novice Ice Camps and maybe, deployments permitting, an occasional week ahead of the Inter Services Competitions. The creation of this ramp at Glasgow Caledonian University will enable Grassroots sports events and summer training camps to be able to recruit more athletes and develop existing members’ starting skills and sled handling. These summer camps will be tri-Service events, and will allow teams to share coaching experience and to build on a base level of knowledge in general sled work. It will also improve Luge-specific physical strength and conditioning to benefit all athletes all year round. Currently, the UK Armed Forces are the only recognised pathway into GB representation so, by increasing numbers involved and promoting the sport throughout the year, the plan is to create better opportunities to increase the number of athletes in the GB programme in the future.
This project has been a labour of love, and I must give my thanks and single out the hard work and leadership of Lt Cdr Emma Miles for bringing the ramp to fruition.
In terms of sliding activity, the Army had planned a full but condensed season consisting of around four weeks’ worth of sliding, but between Austrian lockdowns and travel restrictions they fell by the wayside, one-by-one. Similarly for the Royal Navy, their planned attendance at some of the Army events also fell through, and the RAF managed a fraction more success and time on the ice with a week’s novice camp in La Plagne, France. Happily, in the end we were able to hold a Combined Services’ Festival of Ice in Igls, Austria – and given the skill fade over the last two years, this was deliberately designed not to be an Inter-Services Ice Champs, but to manage a more measured and constructive rehabilitation into the wonderful world of Olympic Luge.
Across all three services, teams decided to invite predominately novices to the event to build for the future, and this gave the opportunity to introduce new athletes to the sport. At Igls, sliders commenced training from Kurve 10, gradually moving up to Kinderstart and then on to Jugendstart as the fortnight progressed, with some even making it to the Ladies’ Start. Nevertheless, some spent most of their laufs seemingly trying to find out what every bit of wall on the track felt like without a sled! Happily though it was an injury free event, with some notable performances.
It was also the largest Royal Navy turnout in many years, including three Reservists and four female sliders. Having an adapted event at the end of the Festival introduced elements of competitive spirit, but without the pressure of a full-blown Inter Services final: no team trophies were awarded this season. That said, in the Novice event (not a competition!), the Royal Navy’s novice sliders finished 1st and 2nd, with the RAF in 3rd. For the Senior event, Sgt Dani Scott comfortably threw down a couple of laufs that the rest of the sliders never stood a chance against. The Army finished 1st and 2nd, with RAF in 3rd. It was great to see that all the teams were very enthusiastic and put in strong performances all round.
It was perhaps not the full season we had all hoped for, but it was a significant achievement to have built the start ramp for use in earnest this summer, and to be able to run the Festival. The best was made of what we had, and all were glad just to be back on the ice trying to remember how to Luge. And all while having an awesome time too!
BMC proudly supports Team Ethos and UKAF WSA on a joint mission to create wellbeing through sport and physical activity for our armed forces personnel. BMC’s core values drive its desire to give back to the community and, by joining Team Ethos, BMC will be helping to fund sport, challenge and adventure to improve health, wellbeing and recovery in the armed forces community.
“BMC aims to build partnerships that make a lasting and positive impact, while enriching communities across the globe to create an Autonomous Digital Enterprise that includes everyone,” said Gavin Allen, UK & Ireland Country Sales Leader, BMC.
“We are proud to partner with Team Ethos and support adventure, health, sport and wellbeing across armed forces personnel in the UK.”
BMC Cares' vision is to inspire & empower BMC’s workforce to invest in people and enrich communities across the Globe through digital literacy, interventions, and accessibility to create An Autonomous Digital Enterprise that Includes Everyone, advancing a more equitable world. BMC Cares’ engagement with Team Army/Team Ethos supports inclusive and equitable opportunities for all, Ensure & healthy lives & promote well-being for all at all ages and partnerships for the goals which is the Goal#3 & Goal#17 of United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.
BFBS is delighted to be supporting the UKAFWSA again this year. Our mission is to entertain, inform, connect, and champion the armed forces, and winter sports are the perfect vehicle for doing all four.
The thrills and (occasional) spills of the competitions on the slopes provide fantastic entertainment for spectators and participants alike.
We are the only professional media organisation committed to reporting on all military sports: on BFBS radio and TV, online at forces.net and on the Forces News social media channels.
Our news and sports coverage provides a forum for serving personnel, veterans, and their families to connect through a common bond.
And we are proud to champion the incredible sportsmen and women in the armed forces, telling their success stories to the military community and wider public.
I and my BFBS colleagues send our best wishes to everyone competing in armed forces winter sports over the coming season. Good luck and God speed.
2022 has been a challenging season for the services after a year’s gap due to COVID and the inevitable skill-fade. The services numbers, however, were still strong, with an excellent number of beginners from all three services. The move of the Army Novices’ week to before Top Opening enabled the Army to bring more beginners without impacting the other services’ riding, and enabling wider grass roots participation with twenty novices of all ranks. We had some competitive racing on Inter-Services Day, with the Army taking the Prince Philip Trophy for the third year running.
Snowy conditions on race day meant that the run was more forgiving than normal, but challenging for the faster riders to get their best times. There were a number of surprising results, with normally fast riders being overtaken by others due to catching a snowdrift in the run or loss of visibility due to snow on visors. Major Tom Wythe won the Lord Trenchard (individual race) with three incredibly impressive
rides, given both the conditions and the fact that he had only escaped from Staff College for a few days. He also won the Auty Speed Cup for the third year running with the fastest time of the race, with a time of 55.42. He was followed in the individual competition by Flight Sergeant Barnes of the RAF in second place and Capt George Packe-Drury-Lowe of the RAMC in third.
It has been a great season for these two ‘up and coming’ riders, with FS Barnes having ridden very well all season, giving more seasoned riders a cause for concern, and Capt Packe-Drury-Lowe winning his club colours a couple of days later, bringing the number of serving Services Colours Riders to four – which is an impressive achievement. The Army took first place in the team competition followed by the Navy team and the RAF, in the end with less than three seconds between the first and last teams over the three courses – the closest race in years.
Services Ladies riding continues to go from strength to strength with a couple more ladies qualifying for Top this year and converting to Flat Top toboggans. The Services’ Ladies race was also heavily affected by snowy conditions, even
more so than the Top races as it fell later in the morning, as is reflected in the differences in timings. The Services Ladies’ Race was won by Sqn Ldr Maddie Smith RAF with a 9 second lead over her fellow riders. 2Lt Kinny Evans (Army) was second with PO Sarah Belcher (RN) in third place. All three of these have now ridden from Top but due to the snowy conditions were riding 10-15 seconds slower than their normal junction times. The overall team standings were very close, with less than six seconds between the three Services. Sqn Ldr Smith qualified for Top this year as well, which means we now have 4 services ladies who have qualified to ride from Top in the last couple of years. The challenge, however, remains the continuity of riders.
The 2020/21 season was Cresta’s first year as a Category 2 Sport, which is a considerable help to the sport and is starting to help bring parity to the personal contributions of participants in Cresta and other ice sports. Due to the lack of a season last year due to COVID, this season has been the first in which we have been able to make the most of this new funding stream. We remain hugely grateful to the chairman and trustees of the UKAFWSA for their support in this long-running campaign, as well as the St Moritz Tobogganing Club for the leaps forward it has taken in the last few years.
It has been a highly competitive season in all races on the Cresta, and only a shame that the race day itself was marred by poor conditions; we will hope for hard and fast ice next season after two seasons of snowy inter-services races. I must pass on our thanks to all of the Services’ very generous sponsors, for their continued support.
We look forward to a strong season next year and to see increased participation on the Run.
Managing Director,
GardaWorld is a Company that reflects the core values and standards of the Armed Forces, and therefore not a surprise that we have many veterans working with us. As such, we are extremely proud to be a supporter of the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Championships. This will be our second year of sponsoring the event, and Oliver Westmacott, our President and COO and I thoroughly enjoyed our time in Meribel last year, able to join with all the competitors, the support teams and other sponsors. The event exceeded our expectations and was extremely special, not least as it was the first of its kind for several years due to the Pandemic. The clear and obvious desire by all competitors to be the best through determination, a sharp focus and hard work, while promoting a spirit of camaraderie, was truly impressive and wholly representative of the ethos of the UK Armed Forces. These attributes build high-level team and individual performance, which leads to success; a lesson for us all whether in industry or the Armed Forces.
Being one of the World’s leading security providers and with a global presence, we know that today’s risks can be deeply unpredictable. Operating across some of the World’s most complex geographies, the need for precision delivery and innovation in our sector has never been more critical to safeguarding our people and our clients. These core capabilities from within our team, underpinned by GardaWorld’s values of integrity, trust, vigilance and respect, have seen us successfully grow our operations throughout the Middle East, Africa and elsewhere. Key to this success has been our respect for Human Rights and our humanitarian efforts, notably throughout 2020 and 2021 where we safely evacuated our clients, the local community and our staff during the insurgency in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique; from Goma, DRC during the volcanic eruptions and from Kabul, Afghanistan following the events of August 2021.
Our repeat sponsorship of the UKAFWA is a valuable opportunity to forge new relationships, rekindle existing friendships and to catch up with colleagues from across industry, all in wonderful surroundings. This unique atmosphere created by the UKAFWSA and those who compete in these Championships, is why we support this event. We are very much looking forward to being back as a UKAFWSA sponsor and seeing you all on the slopes in 2023.
Despite the implications created by COVID-19, the 2021/22 season still saw several units and individuals seize periods on snow and they certainly made the most of the opportunity! In November and December, the teams ventured to the snow-covered countries of Sweden and Norway and they dived straight into the training. For those individuals with experience, they quickly re-discovered their ski legs whilst those new to the sport of Nordic and biathlon approached the experience with some dogged determination.
Before the snow season commenced, various rollerski training camps were delivered across the United Kingdom. The Royal Air Force conducted a successful Nordic pre-season training camp in November at Redbridge Cycling Centre, London, for all abilities to kick-start their training before the snow. They had access to a closed loop track for rollerskiing and laser rifle to learn shooting with a high pulse!
Unfortunately, the COVID travel implications scuppered their on-snow exercise plans and new plans were made. The cancellations did not stop a few determined individuals who used their leave to attend cross-country races in Europe with some very successful results. These included the König Ludwig Lauf race in Germany and the prestigious Birkebeinerrennet in Norway.
The RAF team later travelled to Finland in April to conduct the RAF Nordic cross country championships where they finished the season by competing in the coveted long-distance Yllas-Levi race, as part of the VISMA Ski Classics marathon calendar.
In September 2021, the Royal Navy and Royal Marine Nordic team commenced training in Kinloss, Scotland to develop their roller-skiing and shooting skills. Access to a range with metal biathlon targets creates a fantastic experience for the students and they developed their technique and accuracy brilliantly. The RNRM team continued their training at the world-class Ridnaun biathlon stadium in Italy in January. Olympian Lee Steve Jackson joined their coaching team to provide fantastic expertise and guidance to set the team up for success in the 2022/23 season.
On the Army side, the Infantry conducted a pre-season preparation and training camp in November in Pirbright. The experienced individuals and coaches, under the guidance of head coach and ex-World Cup athlete Scott Dixon shared their expertise on shooting, ski waxing before departing for Idre Fjall, Sweden. The Infantry had an incredibly successful camp in Sweden where they worked hard to push themselves physically and mentally every day in temperatures as low as -23 degrees Celsius.
Several Corps from the British Army deployed to the Innlandet region of Norway near the Olympic town of Lillehamer to conduct their Corps training camps. The teams made the long journey by road and ferry from the UK to Norway via France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. Snow conditions were unfortunately not as idyllic as the 2019/20 season but a select number of tracks were still open and the ranges were quickly swarmed by determined soldiers who were keen to learn. Their coaching teams included ex high level athletes from Norway who were left impressed with the soldiers’ dedication to learn cross country and biathlon.
Throughout the 2021/22 winter season, 5 military biathletes represented the British Army and Great Britain in an array of international competitions across the world. Facing a second season with COVID restrictions, they were determined to not let the pandemic hinder races that they had spent the summer preparing for.
Throughout the summer, Sgt Amanda Lightfoot (AGC) and Bombardier Vincent Fountain (RA) trained abroad in Germany with the GB Elite Squad making the most of the Alps and biathlon facilities. Ruhpolding is a fantastic location where they were able to train with other national teams, especially the Japanese, who became very close friends.
Meanwhile in the UK, Lt Marcus Webb RHA, LBdr Ciara Mitchell (RA) and Pte Alfie Sprake (RLC) trained with the Junior and National Development squads at a variety of locations. Until COVID-19 allowed them to train abroad, they made the most of the facilities they could get their hands on which included rifle ranges in Bicester, mountain bike trails in South Wales and cycling circuits for roller skiing.
In August 2021, all the athletes were presented with a unique opportunity to compete at the Summer Biathlon World Championships in Nove Mesto Na Morave, Czech Republic. These were the first international races for Bdr Mitchell and Lt Webb who threw themselves at the opportunity and gained that vital experience of racing at the top level before starting the season.
The winter season commenced in Sweden where Sgt Lightfoot attended races at the World Cup level, Lt Webb, Bdr Fountain and LBdr Mitchell at the IBU Cup level and Pte Sprake on the Junior circuit. There was regular travel across Europe and even to Canada and the U.S.A where Pte Sprake competed at the Junior and Youth World Championships in Soldier Hollow.
We say goodbye to Sgt Lightfoot and Bdr Fountain who have hung up their GB Team race suits for the final time, however we are pretty confident in saying we will see them again at the Army championships in 2023 racing for their Regimental teams!
I am delighted that BMT are continuing to support the UK Armed Forces Winter Sports Association (UKAFWSA). As we have learned to live with COVID we have all become aware of our resilience and personal strength; at the same time, we should reflect on our vulnerabilities and appreciate the commitment and sacrifice of those who have given their all to public service, notably the armed forces who were at the fore of the COVID response in the UK whilst also delivering their core tasks in defending the realm and UK interests overseas. Much of this work goes unseen but is appreciated. In supporting the UKAFWSA, BMT not only recognises the efforts of the individuals and teams in the competition but also all those in the Services who grow in stature through grass roots sport. Resilience and wellbeing should not be taken for granted and BMT share the belief that all levels of Services’ sport provides a critical opportunity to hone mental and physical fitness and provide the confidence to continue to triumph in the face of adversity.
We help serving military personnel and veterans recover both mentally and physically through challenge and competition on snow. From beginners joining our Foundation Team to Winter Paralympic hopefuls, we offer opportunities for all abilities, through the restorative power of competitive Snowsports.
The Paralympic year started the way we could only have dreamt back in 2018, when the current crop of AFPST performance team athletes came together for the first time on the slopes of Serre Chevalier. After a successful career in military ski racing herself, Major Nikki Jordan had begun the journey of coaching the exiting talent of Dan Sheen, Alex Slegg, Shona Brownlee and Kevin Drake and the Army Ski Championships had brought them together to exhibit the power of winter sport in assisting the recovery of wounded service personnel. Even back then, it was clear that the Beijing Paralympic Winter Games in 2022 was possible for these athletes and inclusion as part of the Paralympic Inspiration Programme to observe at the PyeongChang Games served to further whet our appetite.
Since that point, the performance team progressed together with a kindred sense of purpose and connection to each other as teammates, and to our common goal of selection for the 2022 Paralympics. In August 2021, GB Snowsport announced selection of the three sitting athletes, Shona, Dan and Alex, onto the GB Para-Alpine Squad for Paralympic year. We were close.
During the next few months, the athletes seemed to go from strength to strength, drawing confidence from their selection and bringing in results which cemented their place on the team. Though we worked hard to give Kevin the best chance we could for late inclusion, the standing category for male athletes was higher than it had ever been before and when selection for the World Championships was announced, it was the three sitting athletes who again were invited. This set of races were held in Lillehammer in Jan 22, delayed from 2020 due to COVID and were an incredible experience for everybody, with the stand out results from Shona Brownlee, winning a silver medal in the women’s sitting category for Super G.
Selection for the Paralympics was announced in Feb 22 and the same three sitting athletes made the team, with Nikki Jordan selected as lead sit-ski coach.
It was the culmination of our hopes and dreams for the last four years and we had achieved something never done before; three alpine AFPST athletes at the Winter Paralympic Games!
Beijing was incredible, even through the haze of COVID restrictions, we were able to savour the full experience, training and racing on the brutal pistes against legends that we had watched videos of and who had awed us over the years before. Outstanding runs in Super G for Shona and Slalom for Alex and Dan were moments that will stay with us all forever and the atmosphere of the opening ceremony at the Birds Eye arena will be an experience to treasure.
The journey for one coach and these four athletes has been more than just skiing. It has been proof that anything is possible after life-changing circumstances, if only we dare to dream.
Alpine Inter Service Male Team Champions Army
Inter Service Female Team Champions RAF
Inter Service Male Champion Cpl Grand Army
Inter Service Male Runner Up Spr Kuwall Army
Inter Service Female Champion Cpl Hughes RAF
Inter Service Female Runner Up SAC Baxter RAF
Inter Service Best Newcomer Male AB Price Royal Navy
Inter Service Best Newcomer Female Capt Wilson Army
Inter Service Best Disabled Skier Kevin Drake AFPST
Snowboard
Inter Service Male Team Champions Army
Inter Service Female Team Champions RAF
Inter Service Male Champion Flt Lt Morris RAF
Inter Service Male Runner Up CSgt Benevides Army
Inter Service Female Champion Wg Cdr Collis RAF
Inter Service Female Runner Up LSET Aldridge Royal Navy
Inter Service Best Newcomer Cpl Furber RAF
Telemark
Inter Service Team Champions Army
Inter Service Male Champion Capt Hurst Army
Inter Service Male Runner Up SSgt Johnson Army
Inter Service Best Newcomer Capt Lesley Army
Delany Trophy Contribution to the ISSSC Di Walters
Due to continued restrictions across Europe this winter, Inter Service Nordic and Ice Sports events were adapted; IS awards were not given. Please read individual discipline reports for details.
On behalf of Attivo Networks® I’m delighted to support the 2023 United Kingdom Armed Forces Winter Sports Association Championships.
We are honoured to support the Association’s 71-year mission to develop teambuilding, self-discipline, moral courage, physical courage, fitness and to promote excellence in winter sports within His Majesty’s Armed Forces.
Our Attivo Networks® team enjoys the competitive spirit as well. Over recent years, Attivo Networks® has received 150+ awards for technology, innovation, and leadership. We are the information technology leader in identity detection and response and deliver a superior defence for preventing threat activity. Customers worldwide rely on our innovative technology to gain comprehensive visibility to exposures and early in-network threat detection of insiders and external adversaries targeting government and military organizations.
To all the UKAFWSA participants in each of the various sport disciplines: Alpine, Bobsleigh, Cresta, Luge, Nordic, Snowboard, Skeleton, and Telemark, best of luck in this year’s Championships.
We look forward to continuing to build our relationship with the UK Armed Forces and working together to drive forward IT security in the defence industry.
