The Wykehamist
merged under freezing cold muddy water through which every competitor had to pass. As intended, adrenaline was spiked before the 6-kilometre run across Woodbury Common. The team ran together, roped as a unit, through rivers, hills, and tunnels, again finishing in first place.
The team worked seamlessly together throughout the event. Led by the Head of Corps, Jad Darkazally, and seconded by Fergus Turvill, the team split up each stance ahead of the competition, such that different team members specialised in different stances. By assigning each of the difficult tasks to different people, the competition was broken down into focused efforts which culminated in a collective success. Head of Marines Alfie Johnstone tackled the dynamic section attack with enthusiasm and expertise. Head of Drill George Stephenson led the team’ s drill stance after the Endurance Run, scoring an impressive 92 %. Their cohesion was evident not only in their victories but also in the way they supported one another across every stage of the competition. Feedback from the Marines and other supervising staff was immensely positive. Winchester’ s cadets were commended for their discipline, teamwork, and ability to adapt in difficult circumstances.
Looking ahead, the result provides a strong foundation for future competitions. Next year’ s team will largely consist of new
cadets, but training is already underway to build on this year’ s successes. Returning next October for their third Pringle, Turvill, Crewe and McIntyre will lead the first-timers by example, passing on what they’ ve learned and building on what they’ ve achieved. Having reviewed the feedback from the commandos at Lympstone and having evaluated this year’ s performance themselves, the Pringle squad of 2026 is determined to go the extra step further and bring back gold.
40 years on, the Pringle Trophy remains more than just a competition. Rightly described by a senior Marine as“ the toughest thing a child can legally do in this country,” it is an opportunity for young people to test themselves under enormous physical and mental pressure, and to learn how to work as part of a team when it counts most. The College is very proud of this year’ s result, which showcased not only the high standards its pupils hold themselves to, but also the enduring value of the CCF programme.
Congratulations to all who took part, and many thanks to all the Armoury staff who helped in training. The corps looks forward to returning to Lympstone next year, confident that Winchester’ s cadets can secure another impressive result.
Jad Darkazally( D, 2021-) and Fergus Turvill( B, 2022-)
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