Claire Shore Champion Cadet Trophy
When informed that I had been selected to attend the UK
Champion Cadet trophy competition I had an enormous sense of
pride and privilege.
I had been chosen to represent my county, along with
Fraser Hills, Josh Truman and Catherine Phillips, to go
head to head with the best master cadets in the United
Kingdom. The title of Champion Cadet is the most
distinguished award an army cadet can achieve and we
were all delighted to be returning to Frimley Park. Being
very good friends we decided to train together before the
competition, but we knew that when we got down to
Frimley it was going to be every man (or woman) for
themselves. Unfortunately, Catherine was unable to
attend, but getting selected to compete in this
competition is an achievement in itself.
On arrival we knew roughly what to expect, having had
previous Champion Cadet competitors Liam Arnot and
Liam O’Kelly
kindly give us
guidance.
Each
competitor is
assessed on
leadership,
weapons handling, marksmanship, orienteering, first
aid, foot drill and drilling a squad.
We attended a panel interview as well as undertaking
a written test on the Army Proficiency Certificate
Syllabus. The assessment included the directing staff
looking for self discipline, selfless commitment,
teamwork and personal example. These are the
qualities that are developed throughout every army
cadet’s career.
During the weekend we gave our all, pushing
ourselves to the limit, as we battled for the most
supreme accolade achievable in the Army Cadet
Force. It was with a great sense of achievement that I
was informed that I had won the trophy and I am very
grateful for all the training and knowledge that has
been passed on to me by all the officers and adult
instructors in Northumbria ACF and wish to say a
huge thank you.
Cadet Sergeant Major James Loughhead
8