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Daniel's Discuss Success

 
Cdt Harry Daniel of 1239 (Broxbourne & Hoddesdon) Sqn competed at the recent Corps Athletics Competition representing Central & East Region in the discus event.

Cdt Daniel (15) who joined 1239 Squadron in 2008 came fourth in the Inter-Region Competition at the weekend, is feeling very positive about competing again next year. He said: “It was a really good day! I didn’t throw anything like my personal best (31 metres), but I’m not really disappointed because I’ll still be in Class B next year, but instead of being the youngest, I’ll probably be one of the oldest, so I think if I keep training, I might even win it, which obviously I’d love to do!”

Flt Lt Claire Bull, officer commanding 1239 (Broxbourne and Hoddesdon) Sqn, added: “I’m feeling incredibly pleased with my cadets’ sporting achievements again this year. Being known as a Squadron that only does sport frustrates me a little bit in some respects, but the sense of team spirit our unit enjoys as a result of having a strong sports team has proven to be a very positive thing!

“As for Cadet Daniel, he has represented 1239 superbly at athletics every year since joining the Unit and to be ranked fourth in the Corps is just fantastic and I’ll look forward to seeing what happens for him next year!”

Image: Cdt Harry Daniel with his medals

by: Flt Lt Claire Bull RAF VR(T) OC 1239 (Broxbourne & Hoddesdon) Sqn - Herts & Bucks Wg

11 Jul 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Inter Wing and Inter Region Athletics
A Special Report by Cdt Cpl Caves of 2028 (Southam) Sqn

I have always enjoyed sport and have represented 2028 (Southam) Sqn in Athletics at the Wing championships and been lucky enough to be chosen for both Region and Corps level which makes me very proud. I hope my report will inspire other Cadets to "have a go,"

The day we went to the Region Inter-Wing Athletics was very hot, that was the only way to describe it! The 23rd May got even hotter as the day progressed! After a reasonably quiet coach journey there, tracksuits were issued and everyone found their seats, ready for the competition to begin.

In the warm shade of the stands everyone started making friends and discussed events and anything else that came to mind! Then as the medals were handed out during the day, more and more cadets from Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing could be seen climbing onto the podium with lots of silver and gold medals being bought back to our stand!

After the final parade, with orders such as “sit in the shade” being given, it was time to go, and the journey back was a lot louder than on the way there, with talk of how well the Wing competed, which everyone agreed was extremely well!

Two cadets from 2028 Squadron, Cadet Ellie Justice and I, competed at Region with some brilliant results.

Cdt Justice gained GOLD in the discus and was nominated to represent the Region. I won GOLD in the 100m and 200m. I am proud to say I broke the competition record for my age group in the 200m set in 1997. I also won SILVER in the 4x100m relay and was chosen to represent the Region at Corps level.

The Corps Inter-Region Athletics championship was held on the 19th June at DCAE Cosford. After a very early start and a cold morning, the track started to buzz with activity as all the Regions turned up and set up their tents for the shade that was needed more and more as the day progressed as it very quickly got sunny and very hot again!

The day was very exciting with many of the events being very close due to the high quality of competition. Despite this, Central and East region did amazing, bringing in many trophies! Eventually after winning 2 relay events, the region ended up with 11 trophies! Overall the region did very well in all the age groups!

Once again I am proud to say that Cadet Ellie Justice and I competed, this time for the Region. Cdt Justice did spectacularly, coming 4th in her age group in the Corps for discus event! I gained GOLD in the 100m, 200m and the 4x100m relay. I have now been nominated as the Corps 100m and 200m runner for Class ‘A’ Boys.

Flt Lt Daryll Moreton, CO of 2028 Squadron, said: ”Cdt Cpl Alex Caves has proven himself to be a great Athlete, his squadron sports jacket is already covered in Wing, Region and Corps badges, not just for Athletics but also for Rugby as well. He and Cdt Ellie Justice are proving to the rest of 2028 Squadron that if you take part, you might just win, and boy can Alex win.”
 

Image: Cdt Cpl Alex Caves with his recent Three Gold medals won at Corps Athletics, wearing his increasingly full Squadron Sports Jacket!

by: Cdt Cpl Alex Caves 2028 (Southam) Sqn - W&B Wg

3 Jul 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Silverware for Norfolk & Suffolk Wing Cadets

The Central & East Region Inter-Wing athletics championships were held on Sunday 23rd May at the Saffron Lane Stadium, Leicester. Cadets from Norfolk & Suffolk Wing achieved a notable number of successes and an impressive haul of silverware.
 

A cache of Gold, Silver and Bronze individual medals was capped by the Class A Boys Team who secured outright victory, winning the 61 Reserve Group Cup and by the Class D Girls Team, who were joint winners sharing the 61 Group Athletic Cup.

Cdt Abigail Simpson, of No 222 (Broadlands) Sqn, beating the Regional record for High Jump by 4cms with an impressive jump of 1.40 metres. Cdt Simpson said: "I was pleased with my performance today, having recently beaten the Wing record, to now go on to beat the Region record; my training really paid off."

Team Manager Sgt (ATC) Kate Elwell said: "I was pleased with the positive attitude of the cadets today; they worked for each other and achieved some excellent results."

Wg Cdr Tony Hipperson, Officer Commanding Norfolk & Suffolk Wing, who was attending his last Inter-Wing Athletics Championship as OC Wing, said: "I was absolutely delighted for the cadets; they achieved some tremendous personal and team rewards for their hard work and effort and their commitment and dedication was first class, despite the hot weather."

Norfolk & Suffolk Wing came 4th overall in the championships with a number of cadets from across the Wing selected to represent Central & East Region at the Air Training Corps National Championships at RAF Cosford in June.

Image by Sgt (ATC) K Elwell: Norfolk & Suffolk Wing Team

by: Wg Cdr Tony Hipperson RAF VR(T) OC Norfolk & Suffolk Wg

25 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

March Athletes

The athletes from 1220 (March) Sqn recently attended the annual Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing Athletics championships held in Cambridge.

The cadets competed against others within their age groups in a range of field and track events and there were several individual successes throughout the day. A total of eleven medals were won and four of these went to a new member of the squadron Cdt Martin Chapman. Martin took home Bronze medals for the 200 metres and Shot put plus a Silver medal in the Discus, he also helped his team win a silver medal in the 4 x 100 metres relay.

At the end of the day the team positions were announced and 1220 Sqn were confirmed as coming second in the Junior Men age group. This is the first time in a while that the squadron have been able to send a full team for this age group and their efforts paid off.

Other medal winners on the day were Junior Men: Cdt Sgt Daniel Woods – Gold in the Javelin, Silver 4 x 100m, Cdt Cpl Simon Foster – Silver 4 x 100m, Cdt James Lyttle – Silver 4 x 100m,

Youths: Cdt Cpl Steven Pugh – Silver Long Jump and Discus, and Junior Girls: Cdt Katie Dickson – Bronze Discuss.

Cdt Sgt Woods and Cdt Cpl Pugh have been called up to represent the Wing at the Central and East Region Athletics championship later this month.

Image: The winning March Team
 

by: Flt Lt Kirsty Burnham RAF VR(T) OC 1220 (March) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

20 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Athletics Success for Beeston Cadets

Cadets from 1359 (Beeston) Sqn enjoyed considerable success at the recent South and East Midlands Wing Athletics competition held at Saffron Lane in Leicester.

They won 9 events in the various age groups, took first place in the Junior Boys and Senior Girls age groups and finished 2nd overall out of the 29 competing squadrons. In addition 1359’s Cpl Beth Denham won the Best Female and Cdt Joe Mitchell won the Best Male competitions.

OC 1359, Flt Lt Phil Bannister praised the cadets, saying: “This is just reward for all the effort the squadron has put in over the last few months in preparing for this competition. Congratulations to all of the cadets involved, those competing and those supporting, in doing a great job on the day, you deserved it. Special congratulations to Cpl Denham and Cdt Mitchell for winning their individual trophies. Well Done!”

The squadron will now be competing in 12 events representing South and East Midlands Wing at the Regional Athletics competition taking place soon. Good luck to them from the staff and cadets at 1359.
 

Image: Cdt Joe Mitchell celebrating winning one of his events

by: CI Mike Hill Sqn MCO 1359 (Beeston) Sqn - South and East Midlands Wg

19 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Someone’s had their Weetabix!!

Seventeen cadets from 2286 (Arden) Sqn attended the Wing Athletics championships held at the Tudor Grange Leisure Centre, Solihull this weekend.

The cadets competed in a number of events, including track events ranging from the 100m to the 1500m, and field events including the long jump, discuss and javelin. All cadets performed well, with a number of cadets making it through the initial heats into the finals.

Individual medals were won by Cdt FS Hackett, who won silver for the Junior Men 1500m, and Cdt Murphy, who also won silver in the both the Junior Girls Discuss and Shot Put.

The big success story of the day was the Junior Boys 4x100m relay team, consisting of cadets Hackett, Patel, and the Mason Brothers. The team won their heat with ease, but as the medals were to be awarded based on the best times, they had to wait for the second heat to be completed before they knew the results! After a seemingly endless wait, the team discovered they’d taken first place, beating squadrons from the second heat by only 0.25 seconds.

The team has vowed to stick together and enter next years event, although they be looking for a replacement for Cdt Hackett (aka The Bullet), who’ll be moving up into the Youth category.

Sgt (ATC) Becky Hainsworth, Team Manager, said: “I was proud of all the cadets who participated today. As well as the 6 cadets who won medals, there were another 11 who did great and all of them contributed to the final result for the team.”
 

Image: The successful Junior Boys 4x100m relay team

by: Sgt (ATC) Becky Hainsworth Sqn MCO 2286 (Arden) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

18 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Athletic Legs Eleven!

126 (City of Derby) Sqn has won the South & East Midlands Wing Athletics competition for the 11th consecutive year. Despite stiff competition, the Derby cadets dug deep, pulled together and remain unbeaten in Athletics since the formation of the South & East Midlands Wing.

The competition took place on Sunday 9th May at Saffron Lane Athletics Stadium in Leicester. The cadets from Derby performed extremely well and won the competition by a clear margin. As well as walking away with the overall title, the squadron won the Youths, Senior Boys and Junior Girls trophies.

The Junior Girls team was captained by Cadet Adele Gibb. Cdt Gibb had a very successful day, winning the 200 metres and the High Jump. Cdt Gibb broke the Junior Girls Wing High Jump record by 5cm. The Junior Girls team performed well in other field events with Cdt Esmee Marsh taking first place in the Shot.

126 Squadron performed well in both track and field events. Teamwork and motivation played a big part in the Squadron’s success and this could be seen in the 4 x 100 metre relays where 126 Squadron won 3 out of the 5 relays. Individuals that shone through on the day included Cpl Ross Keeling who won the 1500 metres in the Senior Boys category and Cdt Lewis George who won the Youths Long Jump.

Fg Off Jackie Barker, Sports Officer at Derby Squadron said: “The cadets had a lot of competition this year, in particular from our friendly rivals 1211 Squadron. However, at the end of the day, the determination and dedication of the cadets enabled them to continue the Squadron’s success in athletics.”

126 Squadron, who have recently been named as the Central & East Region representatives for Lees Trophy, will now turn their attention towards training for the Wing Field Day competition that takes place in June.

by: Fg Off Jackie Barker RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 126 (City of Derby) Sqn - South & East Midlands Wg

14 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Run Away Success

On Sunday 9th May 2010, nineteen cadets from 134 (Bedford) Sqn competed in the annual Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing Athletics Competition, held this year at the Cambridge University sports ground.

Twenty eight squadrons, from across the Wing attended which meant that every event was going to be hotly contested. Last year the team achieved an extremely respectable haul of 7 Gold and 5 Silver medals as well as the Junior Boys Cup. The day consisted of various track and field events and the success started early with the Junior Boys 4 X 100 metres relay team winning their heat and qualifying for the final.

The success continued throughout the day with wins including Bronze medals for Cdts Henry Atkinson for Javelin, Danielle Pickering for Discus and Luc Flowers in the 800 metres. The haul continued with Silver Medals for Cdt Cpl Tiffany Cotton in the 800 metres and Cdt Pickering for the Shot.

The outstanding performances of the day were from Cdt Luke Denham, with Gold in the Shot, Gold in the relay, Silver for the 100 metres and Silver in the Long Jump and Cdt Cpl Wesley Bradley who won Gold in every event he entered, four in all; including the Discus, 400 metres, 4 x 100 metres and the High Jump achieving a new wing record in this event.

The final event of the day was the 4 X 100 meters relay finals. The Junior Boys team consisted of Cdts Denham, Hilton, Atkinson and Cdt Cpl Bradley who entered the event hopefully following their success in the heat. Their baton handovers were slick leading to victory with a massive 20 metre winning margin over the second place team.

The final tally was 8 Gold, 4 Silver and 3 Bronze medals. The boys retained the Junior Category Overall Cup for the second year and added to the silverware with the Overall Boys Athletics Shield. The triumph of the day came with the final announcement that Bedford had won the much coveted top prize of the Overall Combined Wing Champions Cup. This was the first time, since its introduction in 1989, that the squadron has won this Cup. Every cadet contributed to the overall points tally. This tremendous achievement is down to the hard work, determination and team work, demonstrated by all the cadets on the day.

Wg Cdr Paul Bower said following the presentation: “Congratulations to 134 Sqn on their success at the Wing Athletics Championships. To be crowned Overall Winners against a very strong field of 29 other units, shows great effort and a strength in depth. The results showed a very close competition throughout and the 134 squadron cadets should be very pleased with their individual and collective performances. Well done!”
 

Images: 1, Wg Cdr Paul Bowwer presents the Overall Combined Wing Champions Cup; 2. The medal haul at the end of the day

by: CI Chris Wiggins Sqn MCO 134 (Bedford) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

13 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Jack Kirby Plays at the very Top!

Saturday 8th May 2010 was a red letter day for 487 (Kingstanding and Perry Barr) Sqn’s Cdt Sgt Jack Kirby as he formed a part of the Corps Rugby Union Team.

The ATC team, which was drawn from all regions across the UK, were playing a team from Shrewsbury Rugby Club. The game was re-organised after the original game planned for January had to be cancelled at the last minute.

Sgt Kirby has represented both the wing and region many times and this was a great way to cap those 'blues' by winning a Corps blue.

In what turned out to be a hard fought game, the ATC eventually lost to the more practised and drilled Shrewsbury team. The ATC team had only come together the night before the game and they played extremely well especially in the second half of the game.

Flt Lt O’Neill, OC 487 Sqn commented: “I watched this game along with cadets from 487 Sqn and I was very impressed with Sgt Kirby’s personal performance, and also that of the whole team. He is a great credit to both himself, but also our Sqn, we all feel very proud that he represented the whole Corps at Rugby.”

by: Fg Off Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 487 (Kingstanding and Perry Barr) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

12 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Getting the Blues

Four cadets from 209 (West Bridgford) Sqn have received Sport’s ‘Blue’ awards for representing South and East Midlands Wing at sport.

Cdt Cpl Serena Linley received her for playing Hockey, Cdt Cpl Michael Disney for Football and Cdt Sgt James Greenhalgh for both swimming and football. However, Cdt FS Joe Hammond received a coveted Triple Blue for representing the Wing at athletics, swimming and rugby.

Joe said of being awarded the Triple Blue: “I’ve always enjoyed sport and it is an honour to represent the Wing and Central and East Region.”

Image Cdt Cpl Serena Linley, Cdt Sgt James Greenhalgh, Cdt FS Joe Hammond, Cdt Cpl Michael Disney

by: CI Richard Vincett Sqn MCO 209 (West Bridgford) Sqn - South and East Midlands Wg
 

11 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Cadets Race To Victory!

Cadets from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn have had a golden day at the annual Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing athletics tournament.

This years tournament, held at the Cambridge University athletics ground saw cadets taking part in track and field events representing their Squadrons with a view to progressing to Wing level.

The day saw Bassingbourn Squadron run away with 21 gold medals, 2 silver and 2 bronze. Alongside the huge medal haul the Squadron won the trophies for the senior boys and senior girls age groups. The Squadron also came a very credible third in the overall competition.

The highlight of the day was the final of the Youths 4x100m relay race which saw a photo finish and after much deliberation Bassingbourn were judged the winners sparking jubilant scenes as the team went wild.

Cdt Sgt Ben Johnson said: “It was an awesome day and all those involved should be very proud of their achievements.”

Team manager CI Susan Kelly added: “I thought our cadets were outstanding taking part in all events. They represented the Squadron well.”

Image: The cadets proudly showing their medal haul

by: CI Gemma Cox Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
 

11 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Medal and Trophy Winners all Round

Cadets from Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing took part in the Wing Athletics Championships on Sunday 9 May at Cambridge, organised by the Wing Sports Officer Sqn Ldr Les Gill.
 

It was closely fought for the top places in the Wing, with a change around this year, which incorporated different Squadrons than last year, and cadets were again very competitive as each of the 30 Squadron’s vied for points to take them through to the next level at Region, to be held later this month.

The results were as follows:-

Junior Boys 1st 134 (Bedford) Sqn.

Youths: 1st 10F (Luton Airport) Sqn.

Senior Boys: 1st 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn.

Junior Girls: 1st 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn.

Senior Girls: 1st 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn.

Winners of the Overall Boys: 134 (Bedford) Sqn.

Winners of the Overall Girls: 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn

Overall Competition Winners: 134 (Bedford) Sqn.

Medals and Trophies were presented by OC Beds & Cambs Wing, Wg Cdr Paul Bower. Congratulations to all participants and winners.

Flt Lt Margaret Bell RAF VR(T) Wing MCO - Beds & Cambs Wg

11 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Thurston Race to Victory

863 (Thurston) Sqn blitzed all competition from other squadrons within Norfolk and Suffolk to come away with a total of nine trophies, including the overall champions and with almost every cadet having a medal hung around their neck.
 

The Norfolk and Suffolk Wing annual athletics competition, held at Bury St Edmunds athletics track, brought together a superb selection of young athletes. The track, which has recently been upgraded to support the 2010 Olympics, was initially covered in a layer of rain water, but this did not stop the competitors taking part in the day’s events.

The competition was of the highest standard with 100% effort being put in to every event. Cadets from Thurston Squadron had been training for the past couple of weeks for this tournament and it was apparent on Sunday that this training and prior preparation paid off.

Trophies were awarded for the winning squadron in each category, Thurston walked away with three of these trophies, Junior Boys, Youths and Junior Men as well as trophies for the overall male and female champions of the day. A separate trophy for 4 x 100m relay races was also won.

Two trophies for personal success were awarded, Cdt Sgt David Firth obtaining the CO’s plate for his victory in the 1500 metre race, the other, CWO Josh Clarke Davis, highlighted as the best and most successful sports cadet of the day.

Thurston squadron were finally awarded the overall trophy with a grand total score of almost double that of the runner up. Cdt Sgt Firth, mighty pleased with his personal success said: “I am so pleased to be a part of 863 (Thurston) Squadron especially when we can demonstrate our strength in events such as this. I hope myself and the other successful competitors succeed at such a high level in the next stage of competition.”

Fg Off Adam Martin, Sports Officer for Thurston Squadron, expressed his great joy of being able to lead the team to victory. He said: “Everyone has put in their upmost effort today and we have certainly prospered from this. I am very proud of all the cadets from Thurston and hope they are as relieved and jubilant as I.”
 

Images: 1. The Thurston Squadron team; 2. CWO Josh Clarke Davis receives the best and most successful sports cadet of the day Trophy from Wg Cdt Tony Hipperson OC Norfolk & Suffolk Wg

by: CWO Josh Clarke Davis Sqn MCO 863 (Thurston) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg
 

11 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page  

Sandy Cadets Track Success

On Sunday 9th May, cadets from 22 (Sandy) Sqn won medals during the annual Wing Athletics competition, competing against cadets from across Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire.

With almost 300 cadets competing for medals, Sandy cadets sporting their new black & orange squadron T-shirts, fought hard throughout the day, with some cadet just missing out on medals. Cdt Sgt Kim Coates (16) managed to gain a silver medal in the Class E Junior Women’s 1500 metres for the second year in a row, as well as gaining bronze in the 800 metres.

Cdt Sgt Kim Coates said: “It was great to get a medal in the 1500 metres for the second year, just missing out on gold. Bronze in the 800 metres was an added bonus.”

The squadron also saw success off the track, with Cdt Simon Parsons (15) receiving bronze in the Class B Youths Javelin event, and Cdt Cpl James Day (16) receiving bronze in the Class C Junior Men’s Long Jump.

Cdt Cpl James Day commented: “With such strong competition, I never thought that I would win a medal. I was quite surprised when my name was called during the parade.”

Image: Cdt Sgt Kim Coates on track

by: CI Jeffrey Henshaw Sqn MCO 22 (Sandy) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
 

10 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Diss Cadets Bring Home Gold!

Cadets from 1070 (Diss) Sqn had a great weekend at the Norfolk and Suffolk Wing Athletics competition, bringing home their largest medal haul to date, 8 golds, 1 silver and a bronze!

Teams from across Norfolk and Suffolk met at Bury St Edmunds on Sunday for a day of track and field events, and Diss squadron came 3rd in the Boys Youth class (15-17yrs).

Cdt Cpl Harry Purves (15), continued his excellent form from last year, winning gold in the Javelin, throwing the longest distance of the day across all classes! Cdt Harley Crisp (15) who has already represented Central and Eastern Region this year at rugby, won gold in both the 100m and the Long Jump. Cdt Raphael Rushforth (14) won his medal with an impressive win in the 1500m in the Junior Boys. They all now go on to represent Norfolk and Suffolk at the Regional Athletics event at the end of May.

Other winners of the day included the Youth Boys 100m relay team who won gold and Cdt Sgt Danielle Breacker (19) who won the bronze in the Senior Girls Shot Putt and silver in the Discus.

Team manager Cdt Sgt Kyle Schooley, who ran the final leg in the relay, said: “We really had a fantastic day, taking home 10 medals and 3 of the team being selected to represent Norfolk and Suffolk is just amazing. Everyone put in the maximum effort at 1070(Diss) Squadron, it’s an awesome squadron to be on!”

by: Flt Lt Emma Dixon RAF VR(T) OC 1070 (Diss) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg

10 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Three Sports, One Day, One Location

Three ATC representative sports matches were recently played in one day at one RAF Station. Hockey, Soccer and Rugby were all played at RAF Cosford by ATC teams selected from the best cadets each Region has to offer.

The girls’ hockey match was the latest fixture in a series played against Tamworth Ladies Hockey Club dating back to 1993. At the start of the match the honours were even with each team having won on eight occasions and one match drawn.

The captain of the team for this match was 2303 (The Chalfonts) Sqn’s CWO Liz Tunley the current female ATC Sports Cadet. Playing in poor weather conditions the team worked well together and put up a strong fight but, sadly for Tunley’s last year of ATC sport, the experience of the Tamworth team showed through eventually and finished 3-0 winners.

At the same time the ATC’s Soccer team was playing another regular opponent in the form of a RAF Careers Information Service (CIS) Select 11.

This was the seventh meeting of the RAF CIS and the ATC with the cadets having only lost on one occasion. The first half gave the ATC most of the possession and several near misses at goal but just before half time the RAF scored one goal. The second half went rather more in the ATC’s favour and the final score was 1-1.

The ATC’s traditional Rugby opposition was provided by Warrington Rugby Club who are no longer able to supply a team and so the ATC accepted the challenge of playing a team provided by Shrewsbury Colts. The cadets put up a strong challenge right up to the end with their points coming in the last ten minutes of the game, but the Colts’ experience of being an established team proved too much of a challenge and won 45-5.

One rare event during the day was the double re-award of Corps Blues (in addition to his existing athletics Blues) to Cdt Sgt Ben Williams from 2515 (Ringwood and Fordingbridge) Sqn.

Sgt Williams attended Cosford thinking he was playing in the Football team, and indeed he did, but was also called upon to play in the Rugby match too. Williams has played in both teams in previous years but never on the same day! He said: “The Rugby opposition this year was definitely tougher than before but the ATC teams always do well bearing in mind that they have never played together before.”

Images: 1. CWO Liz Tunley captain of the ATC Hockey team during the match against Tamworth; 2. 48F (Hampstead) Sqn’s Cdt Sgt Paulo Morais sees off a spirited tackle by a Shrewsbury player

by: Sqn Ldr Philip Jones RAF VR(T) ACO Photographer (South)

10 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Wigston Cadets in Winning Form

The cadets from 1461 (Wigston) Sqn have walked away with silverware at recent the South and East Midlands Wing annual athletic meet.

The team, split into age groups were able to put their practice and team spirit together to produce a winning performance in the junior boys class. Competing against 29 other squadrons from across the wing the cadets put their track and field skills to the test, and each put in 100% effort..

Cdt Lukasz Swiatkiewicz had an eventfully day with a number of first and second places and was awarded the trophy for most individual points by a male competitor.

CI Rosie Glenister, 1461’s sports officer said: “I am really proud of the team and what they have all achieved today, well done all!”

Image: Cdt Swiatkiewicz receiving his trophy from Mrs Dickinson

by: Fg Off Tim Hargraves, OiC 1461 (Wigston) Sqn - South and East Midlands Wg
 

9 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sports Triumph for Halton

Young sportsmen and women from 2409 (Halton) Sqn tasted victory, as they won the 2010 Herts and Bucks Wing Sports Day.

Cadets from the unit, based at RAF Halton, hopped skipped, jumped, ran and threw their way to success in the event at Dacorum sports track in Hemel Hempstead. As well as the overall trophy, they also took home prizes for the overall female, senior female, junior female and junior male categories.

In second place were last year’s winners 1239 (Broxbourne and Hoddesdon) Sqn, who also won the overall male and intermediate male. In overall third place were 248 (Letchworth) Sqn, while the senior male trophy was won by 2366 (Bletchley Park) Sqn.

Herts and Bucks Wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Andy Baker said: “My congratulations go to everyone who won a medal on the day and, indeed, everyone who took part and did their bit for their unit. We had a total of 29 units taking part and four Wing records were broken, a result I consider really positive.”

Images by Flt Lt George Fitch: OC Herts and Bucks, Wg Cdr Paul Mimpress presents medals.

by: Fg Off Ben Wilkinson RAF VR(T) Wing MCO - Herts & Bucks Wg

6 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Rugby Win Football Final

29F Rugby) Sqn won the Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing Inter-Squadron Football Final in a tight game at RAF Cosford athletics stadium. The game was against 165 (Castle Bromwich) Sqn and both teams arrived in the final with superb pre-match results and were geared up for what looked to be a close final.

The game kicked off with 29F squadron getting much of the possession, until 165 squadron made it 1-0 on the counter attack with a scrappy first goal. It was not until late in the first half that 29F got into their stride, and their equaliser came thanks to some great attacking play by Cdt FS Ben Davies, much to the delight of the on-looking supporters from 29F. The dying minutes of the first half saw a 29F penalty call, controversially waved away by the referee.

After inspirational half-time team talks, both teams headed out for what was to be the crucial half of the game. 29F got off to a great start with Cdt Sgt Alex Menzies putting 29F in the lead and sending the supporters crazy in the stands! Shortly after, Cdt FS Davies put 29F two goals clear, with a fine quick break taking 165's defence by surprise.

Although 165 were now 2 goals behind they continued to be a force to be reckoned with especially in midfield. Their morale took a blow, when having conceded only one goal on their way to the Final, 29F scored their third goal of the day with FS Davies again making a run through the 165 defence.

29F began to dominate the game and FS Davies scored his third goal of the game and his 11th goal in 3 matches when he fired 29F into a comfy 4-1 lead. Both teams continued to battle throughout the second half, and 165’s determination showed in the dying minutes when they slotted a late consolation goal in the back of 29F’s net.

The game ended with a convincing 4-2 victory for 29F, and a great all-round display of sportsmanship from both teams. Sadly, this was the final game to be played in Cosford's stadium before it is mothballed, prior to the station being handed over to the British Army to house soldiers returning from Germany.

Sqn Ldr Pat McCarroll, Wing Sports Officer, presented the teams with their well deserved medals before handing the shield over to 29F’s Captain, Cdt Sgt Daniel Curtis, to take back to Rugby for the first time in squadron's history.

Images by Peter Realf Sqn MCO: The winning 29F Rugby) Sqn team

by: Cdt Webb 29F (Rugby) Sqn - W&B Wg

3 May 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

'Shock' But Welcome Win For N & S Cadets

With nature once again trying its worst to disrupt proceedings the Central & East Region Junior Boys Rugby Tournament was recently held at RAF Brampton.

The competition was split in to two groups and the first match which was played in torrential rain saw Norfolk & Suffolk play South & East Midlands, they took the game to the opponents from the off but only managed to score one try before the break. In the second half the lads got it together and the final score was 22-0.to N&S

In the second pool match N&S came up against their old rivals Trent wing and in a very hard fought encounter ran out 5 -0 winners Scoring the only try just 2 minutes from the end with Cpl Matthews from 2356 (Caister) Sqn doing the honours.

The other matches in both groups were just as hard fought and the biggest shock of the day was announced that Warwick & Birmingham failed to make the final with Herts & Bucks beating them to it. W&B had won the trophy more than any other wing over the last 20 years so it was a real shock !

The final was played under a dark gray sky but the rain held off to allow both N&S and H&B to play out the best match of the competition. with N&S ahead just at the break 7 -5 The second half saw both sides battering their opponents try line but to no avail until with 3 minutes left Up popped Cpl Matthews again to score for N&S and make it 14-5. H&B immediately retaliated by scoring in the corner to make it 14-10 ,N&S managed to hold out the remaining couple of minutes and recorded their first win in this competition since 1984, a brilliant effort from the team!

After a short rest 9 of the side were asked to take part in trials for the regional team with seven of them being successful including Cdt Crisp of 1070 (Diss) Sqn who before the tournament had never played a competitive game of rugby !!

Sqn Ldr Green the Wing Sports Officer was delighted for the lads saying: “How they battled and never gave up for each other was truly remarkable. They wanted to win this so badly for each other . This was real team work of the highest calibre well done lads."

The cadets joint coaches CI's Chris Barrett and Timmy Wright were almost lost for words. CI Wright a past player for the wing was overwhelmed for the boys and CI Barrett in only his second season was also delighted to have helped the boys achieve their goal.
 

by: Flt Lt Philip Cole RAF VR(T) Wing MCO Norfolk and Suffolk Wg

31 Mar 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Central & East Storm to Victory

Central & East Region had another brilliant day today Saturday 27 March at the Inter-Region Corps Cross-Country Championships. The weather was warm and dry - for a change- and our cadets coped really well with these conditions.

The Region won the Junior Girls, Senior Girls and Boys Trophies and were third in the Youths and Junior Men competitions, giving us enough to take the Overall Trophy.

Sqn Ldr Wendy Truman, Region Sports Officer, said: "I am pleased to say that each member of our team went home with a medal, 12 gold and 8 bronze in total, so everyone had something to shout about."

by: Sqn Ldr Wendy Truman RAF VR(T) Region Sports Officer

27 Mar 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Run for Sports Relief

Cadets from 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn rose to the Sports Relief Challenge on Sunday 21st March when they joined hundreds of other runners of all ages taking part in the charity event at the Pingles Leisure Centre in Nuneaton.

Most of the cadets had opted to take part in the three mile run on the track whilst several others took on the more challenging six mile run.

But whichever course the youngsters were running, they where all in it to have fun and raise money for Sports Relief thus helping to make a world of difference to people living really tough lives, both in the UK and the world’s poorest countries.

Cdt Cpl Grant Roby who organised the cadet team’s entry into the Sports Relief Challenge run said: “The cadets were determined to do something for Sports Relief 2010 and I think they’ve all enjoyed taking part. We have all been busy collecting sponsors but we don’t know exactly how much we’ve collected yet but whatever the final total we will be sure that every penny will help to improve life for someone less fortunate than ourselves.”

Image: Cadets from 121 (Nuneaton) Squadron Run for Sports Relief at the Pingles Leisure Centre in Nuneaton
 

by: Flt Lt Paul Hincks RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn - W&B Wg

21 Mar 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Rugby Success for Diss Cadet

 
Cdt Harley Crisp of 1070 (Diss) Sqn has been selected to represent Central and Eastern Region at the upcoming Air Training Corps National Rugby Competition after being previously selected for Norfolk and Suffolk Wing.

Cdt Crisp (15), who has only been with the squadron since November, said: "It was amazing to represent Norfolk and Suffolk but to be chosen to play for the whole region is fantastic!” Harley will now receive a ‘Regional Blue’ award to add to his already growing collection of awards. At the weekend he also achieved his squadron marksman scoring 80 out of 100, despite it being only the second time he’d fired the No.5 rifle!

Flt Lt Emma Dixon, Commanding Officer of Diss Sqn said: “Cdt Harley Crisp has given 100% since he joined the air cadets. He truly is an exemplar cadet and we have high hoped for his ATC career. We are all very proud of him.”

Image: Cdt Harley Crisp (back row, far right) with the Norfolk & Suffolk Wing Rugby Team
 

by: Flt Lt Emma Dixon RAF VR(T) OC 1070 (Diss) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg
 

9 Mar 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

A Wing Blue!

A cadet from 207 (Cranfield) Sqn showed sporting prowess after attending a football trial held in January. Cdt cp Tom Harris (17), represented Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at the annual Central and Eastern Region football tournament hosted at RAF Cranwell.

This was after his success at the Wing trails held at RAF Brampton on the 17th of January in which he was selected for the Wing team to compete at the Regional event alongside selected members from some of the 29 other squadrons making up the Wing.

After a long journey to Lincolnshire for the tournament, Beds and Cambs Wing put on a good show and eventually finished runners up in the tournament of 6 teams. They played 2 group matches and after winning both had progressed to the final, only to be narrowly beaten 1-0 to take the silver medal. This achievement is in vivid contrast to last year when the team finished in last place.

Flt Lt Paul Weston, officer commanding 207 Sqn, said: “It’s a very proud day to have a representative at the event for the squadron. I am very pleased for Corporal Harris and the team as they exceeded all expectations and did very well at the event.”

Each member of the Beds and Cambs team were awarded a silver medal for their efforts and some will now progress through to represent Central and Eastern Region at the Corps tournament.

by Cdt Cpl Tom Harris For Sqn MCO 207 (Cranfield) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
 

11 Mar 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Carl Bowls Them Over

Cdt Cpl Carl Blackman (17), was part of an East Midlands team who came second in the National Boccia finals held in Nottingham recently. Boccia is derived from the French game of Boule and is becoming very popular amongst disabled sports people.

All round sportsman Carl has only been playing the game for about a year and was selected for the East Midlands under 19 team,having recently won the Regional under 23’s championship.

Carl said: “We had some tough games getting through to the final and we were only just piped at the winning post. The day of the tournament was the first time we had played together as a team so with a little more practice I think we can win next year.”

Sponsored by the Lord’s Taverners and staged this year at Nottingham Trent University, the tournament attracted teams from all over the country and is growing year on year.

Image: Cdt Cpl Carl Blackman – champion

by: Wg Cdr Steve Hullott RAF VR(T) (Retd) Sqn MCO 2160 (Sleaford) Sqn - Trent Wg

3 Mar 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

2010 Off To Flying Start for Bassingbourn

Sunday 17th January saw Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing gather together to compete for the first trophy of the year in the junior girls netball competition held at RAF Brampton.

2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn led from start to finish, not losing a single game in the competition with Cdt Aimee Pollack coming out as top goal scorer. The team were supported by CI's Samantha Pink and Stephanie Trayhurn, both on their first outings as Civilian Instructors. Cdt Evie Kyprianou and Cdt Aimee Pollock will now go on to represent Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing on 31st January at RAF Cranwell.

The day also saw trials for senior football and junior rugby. Officer Cadet Andrew Kyprianou assisted the rugby trials and Flight Sergeant (ATC) Chris Cox assisted with the football. The rugby trials saw Cdt Cps Cameron Geddes and Tom Jefferies selected to represent Wing, with Cdt Sgts Nick Buckle and Ollie Rudkins along with Cdt Cpl Mateusz Bialowas selected to represent the Wing at football.

Cdt Aimee Pollock said: “I joined the cadets in November 2009 and this was the first time I have represented the Squadron at sports. I enjoyed the competition and winning made the day even better!”

CI Stephanie Trayhurn added: "Once more our cadets displayed the range of talents our squadron has in its midst as they played some excellent netball, winning all of their games to bring home the Silverware. Well done again to all of the cadets involved”.

On Sunday 24th January, Cdt Cpl Kyprianou and Cdts Ashton, Hanley, Strong and Weavers were also selected to represent the Wing at Senior Hockey.

Image: Cdt Cpl Evie Kyprianou receives the netball trophy from Sqn Ldr Chas Dicks

CI Gemma Brown Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

25 Jan 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sporting Success for Diss Cadets

Two cadets from 1070 (Diss) Sqn have been selected to represent Norfolk and Suffolk Wing after being selected to play for the Junior Rugby and Senior Football teams.

Cdt Harley Crisp (14) was chosen to play for the Junior Boys Rugby, despite only having been with the squadron for 3 months, he said: "It will be amazing to represent Norfolk and Suffolk next Sunday, it’s the first time in a few years that a cadet from Diss has been selected”.

Harley, who passed his First Class exam last week will also now receive a ‘Wing Blue’ award.

Cdt Chris Smith (16), a pupil at Hartismere High School was chosen to represent Norfolk and Suffolk Wing in the Senior Boys Football, said: “There were some really great players on the pitch so I am really pleased to have been picked. I can't wait for our first match later in the year when I will be able to earn my Wing Blue.”

Flt Lt Emma Dixon, Commanding Officer of Diss Squadron said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the squadron. Its been a number of years since we’ve had any success at this level. I said 2010 was going to be our year, and so far so good!”

Image: Cdt Chris Smith in foreground in the red tabard

by: Flt Lt Emma Dixon RAF VR(T) OC 1070 (Diss) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg

25 Jan 2010                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

A Creditable Third

Cdt Sgt Sam Balmbra from 207 (Cranfield) Sqn achieved an impressive third place at the Central and East Region Cross Country Championships at RAFC Cranwell last week.

The 16-year-old from Olney joined with cadets from other local squadrons to form the Beds and Cambs Wing youth team at the annual sporting event. Having travelled through torrential rain and heavy winds, the team geared themselves up for what was set to be a gruelling race.

All the competitors steadied into their own pace and, despite the hill halfway round the course causing problems for some, the Beds and Cambs team conquered this feat with complete success. Along with Sgt Balmbra completing the race in a very impressive time, the rest of the team achieved a respectable third, tenth, eleventh and fourteenth places, which ultimately saw them taking home the overall bronze medal.

Sgt Balmbra, who joined Cranfield Squadron two years ago, said: “Everyone should be proud of their achievements as this helped Beds and Cambs come fourth overall. “A fantastic result, well done to all.”

by: CI Emily Goddard Sqn MCO 207 (Cranfield) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
 

17 Dec 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

495's Golden Girls

Cadets from 495 (Sutton Coldfield) Sqn recently attended the Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing Cross Country championships at Tudor Grange park, Solihull.

Wet weather and muddy conditions underfoot on the day did nothing to deter the squadrons runners, with the Junior boys team taking 3rd place overall and the Intermediate boys team finishing a credible 5th place overall.

However the best was saved till last with the squadron's Senior girls team finishing in 1st place overall and bringing back one of the major trophies on offer. Well done to Cdt's Olivia Dowd, Kathleen Byrne and Rachel Lawrence who made up the Senior girls team.

Flt Lt Nick Upton, Officer Commanding 495 Sqn said: "Although we did not win any individual cadet medals, it was a fantastic squadron team effort, well done to all the squadrons runners for doing so well in trying conditions."

Image: Cdt Olivia Dowd and Cdt Rachel Lawrence receiving the Senior Girls Trophy from Flt Lt Chris Mumford, Deputy Wing Sports Officer

by: Flt Lt Nick Upton RAF VR(T) OC 495 (Sutton Coldfield) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

30 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Running With Something To Prove
 

Cadets from 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn joined Cadets from other Squadrons from across the Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing as they descended on Tudor Grange Park in Solihull for the Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing Cross Country Championships.

The day started out wet, muddy and extremely cold but as the competition got underway things soon warmed up with cadets from 121 Squadron putting in some outstanding performances.

The most notable performance from the girls came from Cdt Gemma Porter who came home in second place in the Junior Girl's race. Gemma who won last years race has now been selected for the Wing team that will be running in the Regional competition on the 6th December at RAF Cranwell.

Gemma who recently proved herself to be the fastest junior girl in the pool at the recent national swimming championships, will be pulling out all the stops at the Regional cross country to once again prove herself to be the Wing’s fastest Junior Girl on dry land as well as in the water.

121 Squadron’s Intermediate Boys team also did extremely well by taking second place in their race.

Flt Lt Ian Crewe, Officer Commanding 121 Squadron, said: “With a Silver medal for Gemma and our Intermediate Boys team coming second, the cadets from 121 Squadron most definitely gave the opposition a good run for their money. Every one of our cadets who came out to represent their Squadron in such awful weather conditions should be congratulated for their efforts."

Images: 1. Cdt Gemma Porter with her Silver Cross Country medal; 2. Silver Cross Country medallist Cdt Gemma Porter crosses the line at the end of her race.

by: Flt Lt Paul Hincks RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn - W&B Wg

25 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Swimming Success At National Championships

Following on from the Central & East Regional Swimming Championships, Cdts Gemma Porter and Joe Peffers from 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn have been back in action, this time adding National Championship medals to their ever increasing tally.

On the 14th November, Cadets Porter and Peffers, the only two cadets from Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing to be selected for the Regions Swimming team, travelled to RAF Cranwell to take part in the Air Cadet National Swimming Championships.

Gemma Porter who recently set a new record-breaking time in the junior girls breaststroke at the Central & East Regional Championships was the first of the two Nuneaton cadets to hit the water. Having an excellent start off the block Gemma powered her way through the water to win the junior girls breaststroke with a convincing lead over her rivals. Gemma added a second National Championship Gold to her collection when she swam in the junior girls medley relay.

Joe Peffers also put on a notable performance in his second race of the day, taking Bronze in the junior boys medley relay.

Flt Lt Ian Crewe Officer Commanding Nuneaton Squadron said: “Gemma and Joe have both powered their way through the Wing, Regional and now National Championships collecting a truly impressive array of medals. No doubt, Gemma’s two Gold’s today have enabled the Central and East Region junior girls team to win the Air Cadets Training Centre Trophy. Joe’s Bronze in the junior boys medley relay also helped to bump up the points for the Region helping Central and East to take fist place in the overall National Championship.

“Between them, Gemma and Joe have clocked up a staggering total of seven Gold, one Silver and two Bronze medals during the 2009 Wing , Region and National Air Cadet Swimming Championships. We are all absolutely delighted with their performance and the way they have represented their squadron.”

Image: Cdts Joe Peffers and Gemma Porter

by: Flt Lt Paul Hincks RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn - W&B Wg

24 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

A Medal for Mallon

Cadets from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn took part in Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing’s cross country race at Tudor Grange in Solihull on Sunday 22 November.

In style the heavens opened just as the first race got underway but this didn’t stop the cadets from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Squadron going extremely well and completing the course.

The horrible weather did not stop one cadet from the squadron managing to come third in the junior class A race, winning 2438’s first medal of the year and Cdt John Mallon’s first medal in the ATC.

Cdt Mallon kept his position all the way around the course and though it was an extremely hard race, he managed to complete the course in good time and only a few seconds behind the first and second placed cadets.

Cdt Mallon will now go onto represent the Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing at the Regional race on Sunday 6 December at RAF Cranwell.

Flt Lt Nathan Adams, Commanding Officer on 2438 Squadron said: "It was very pleasing to see cadet Mallon's effort in the Cross Country being rewarded. The inclement weather made the race very hard going and to achieve the position he did took a lot of hard work and determination. He is an inspiration to all of his peers and has shown what is achievable with a little hard work and dedication."
 

Images: Cdt John Mallon receives his medal from Flt Lt Chris Mumford Deputy Wing Sports Officer

by: CI Roni Tillman Sqn MCO 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn - W&B Wg

24 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Thurston Triumphs at Barnham

863 (Thurston) Sqn triumphed once again at this year’s annual Wing Cross Country championship at RAF Barnham last Sunday. The weather was poor, the ground was sodden but spirits remained high, especially those of Thurston's cadets.
 

Over 15 squadrons put out teams for the arduous race across the training ground at the base. Split into 5 different running groups, determined by age, the runners blazed the course to try and prove themselves to all competitors and observers. The course was not a gruelling one, but the concentration needed to avoid rabbit holes, ditches and tree stumps was enough to tire someone in the first instance.

The day progressed well with all competitors completing their race and earning much needed points for themselves and their squadrons. The winners in each category were clear and secured their title with great confidence and satisfaction.

It was unfortunate that the conditions had changed for the worst by the conclusion of the event, but the group of young athletes were surely glad to have completed their contest in adequate time to remain dry.

It was a superb sight to see all but two of Thurston Sqn decorated with a medal for their amazing efforts throughout the day. Not only this, but the terrific team proved themselves to all by winning the overall championship for the third consecutive year. It was a great challenge for all competitors, but it is anticipated the success of Thurston will continue in future years.

by: CWO Josh Clarke Davis Sqn MCO 863 (Thurston) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg

24 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cross Country is Runaway Success

Cadets from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn are celebrating after success at the recent Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing cross country competition held at ATR Bassingbourn.
 

A team of eighteen cadets from the Squadron braved the cold weather to compete against 29 other units from across the Wing in the 3 mile event, winning five out of the eight trophies on offer along with a large haul of medals. Whilst the cadets were running, the Squadron Civilian Committee kept staff and officials stocked up with hot drinks and bacon rolls. A team of cadets who were not running also volunteered set up the event and marshal the cross country course.

The cross country team of cadets ‘ran’ away with trophies for the following competitions:

Junior girls overall
Senior girls overall
Overall boys
Overall girls
Overall competition

Cdt Bryony Weavers, winner of the junior girls individual competition said: “It was such a great feeling to win the junior girls category whilst representing the Squadron. Despite the bad weather, I really enjoyed the day and look forward to representing the Wing in the Regional Competition.”

CWO Sam Pink, who was competing in her last Wing event as a cadet before becoming a member of staff, added: “Winning this event with the squadron was a very memorable way to end my cadet career and I will look back at my seven years in the Corps with great memories.”

Images: 1. The cross country team pose with their large haul of medals and trophies; 2. Cdt Sgt Nick Buckle got slightly muddy whilst running!

by: CI Gemma Brown Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg
 

23 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Wing Cross Country Championships

The Norfolk and Suffolk Wing annual cross-country competition took place in unseasonably mild conditions on a demanding course at RAF Barnham at the weekend. However, all that was in the minds of the air cadets from 864 (Watton) Sqn was retaining and winning trophies. The competition, raced across five categories challenged all the enthusiastic cadets from across the Wing.

Cdt Cpl Annamaria Nichols said: “An excellent day for our Squadron with good results all round, even though the running conditions were really challenging everyone did really well.”

Watton cadets competed with a spirited attitude and their approach was rewarded with the Junior Boys retaining their trophy and the Junior Girls regaining their Trophy that they narrowly lost last year.

CWO Michael Whitney’s fitness training paid off and he won the junior men’s final beating the favourite in considerable style. The senior girls finished a commendable third in their event and the team effort placed Watton Squadron for the second year running as the overall runners up in the Wing Competition.

Five Watton cadets will now represent Norfolk and Suffolk at the Regional competition at RAFC Cranwell in December.

Officer Commanding, Flt Lt Michael Edney, said: "The cadets as usual have done fantastically well with some excellent individual results. I commend them all for turning out and running their hearts out for the squadron.”
 

Image: The winning junior boy's and girl's team with their trophies and CWO Whitney.

by: Flt Lt Michael Edney RAF VR(T) 864 (Watton) Sqn - Norfolk and Suffolk Wg

23 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cross Country Running with Diss Cadets

 
Cadets from 1070 (Diss) Sqn took part in the Norfolk and Suffolk Wing cross country race at RAF Barnham this Sunday, finishing just as the heavens opened!

Cdt Cpl Kyle Schooley said: “It was the first time I’ve taken part in the Wing cross country. Running 3 miles on a cold Sunday morning was pretty hard but I made a good time, and definitely want to give it another go next year. It was good to meet up with all the other cadets from across the Wing.”

Flt Lt Emma Dixon, Commanding Officer of Diss Squadron, who helped marshal the event said: “It was great that our cadets gave it a go. None of them had done cross country before so I’m really proud that they all gave it their best. I don’t think i could run that distance at that time of day anymore!”

Image: Cpl Kyle Schooley crossing the finish line

by: Flt Lt Emma Dixon RAF VR(T) OC 1070 (Diss) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg
 

22 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Splashing Through the Mud at Cross Country Championships!

On Sunday 22nd November, 14 cadets from 487 (Kingstanding and Perry Barr) Sqn, travelled to Tudor Grange in Solihull to take part in the annual Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing cross country championships, and what a day it proved to be!

Whilst cross country running is traditionally run in the cold months of winter, the ground conditions, and then the inclement weather meant that the cadets had to cope with very wet and slippery conditions.

As the first race got under way, the heavens opened and down came a downpour which along with the cold biting wind made it extremely hard going for all involved, including the marshals who were stood out on the course for over two and a half hours.
 

Following the first boys competition, it was decided to shorten the course because of the weather, a decision which was welcomed by all who followed.

The cadets from 487 Sqn all did extremely well and in particular, Cdt Davison who was competing at her first ATC event. She came fourth in a close run race in the girl’s inter-mediate competition. For most of her race she was running third, but she just couldn’t hold on to that position at the finish line.

Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill, OC 487 Sqn commented: “This was a great effort by all the cadets and I would like to thank them all for turning out today. The weather was horrible and the conditions under foot were not good, but everybody put their head down and got on with it.”

Image: The muddy team at the end of the competition prior to getting warm in the mini-bus!

by Fg Off Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 487 (Kingstanding and Perry Barr) Sqn - W&B Wg

22 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Regional Success - A Rugby first for 2438 Squadron

Cdt Sgt John Ormsby from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn has been selected to play Rugby for Central and East Region.

After a successful trial and award of a Wing Blue for Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing, Cdt Sgt Ormsby was requested to attend the Regional trials at RAF Brampton on Sunday 15 November. After various training exercises he took part in three 30 minute training matches. Throughout the matches he was assigned to various positions within the side to test his ability as a rugby player. At the end of the three games he was told he had been selected to play for the Regional team.

Not only is Cdt Sgt Ormsby ‘s success in being selected to play for Wing and Region a personal triumph, he is also the first cadet from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn to play rugby for Region. He will now go on to play other Region's in the Corps at Royal Air Force College Cranwell.

Sgt Ormsby said: "Overall my journey to the Regional rugby team was a very enjoyable experience however also extremely challenging both mentally and physically. It was by no means an easy task although I would strongly recommend anyone interested in the sport to take part."

Image: Cdt Sgt John Ormsby

by: CI Roni Tillman Sqn MCO 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn - W&B Wg

22 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Hoddesdon's Badge(R) of Honour...

 
Herts and Bucks Wing's 2009 Cross-Country champions are 1239 (Broxbourne and Hoddesdon) Sqn, who took the title at the annual competition at RAF Halton on Sunday.
 

The unit - which has become well-known for its sporting prowess after a string of results - triumphed by a significant margin, beating second-place 1066 (Hitchin) Sqn and third-place 220 (St Albans) Sqn, as well as the Wing's 27 other units.

As well as the overall title, 1239 took the Junior Boys', Junior Men, Overall Male, Junior Girls, Junior Women and Overall Female titles. The sole trophy 1239 did not manage to scoop - Intermediate Male - was collected by 220 (St Albans).

The competition took place in the usual setting of the RAF Halton rugby pitches, amid very wet and windy weather. But despite the conditions there was a high turnout of cadets, with more than 60 entrants for some of the categories.

Herts and Bucks Wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Andy Baker, said: "This is the first time I have overseen Wing Cross Country since taking over as Sports Officer and I was pleased to see it run so successfully - despite the best efforts of the elements! There was strong but friendly competition across the age groups and I am confident we can put in a very good Wing team at the Regional competition."

Officer Commanding Herts and Bucks Wing, Wg Cdr Paul Mimpress, added: "My congratulations go to 1239 Squadron for their convincing win, but I would also like to congratulate and thank all those cadets who came and competed. On the basis of what I have seen I look forward to us putting in a great performance against the other Wings in Central and East and coming away with plenty of silverware from the Regional competition."

Images: 1. 1239 Squadron's cadets, staff and supporters; 2. Wg Cdr Paul Mimpress presents the overall Cross-Country trophy to 1239 Squadron mascot "Bob the Badger".

by: Fg Off Ben Wilkinson RAF VR(T) Wing MCO Herts & Bucks Wg
 

22 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Region Succeeds in the Pool Again

Central & East Region had another successful day at the Inter-Region Swimming Championships, held on Saturday 14th November at the Royal Air Force College, Cranwell.

The cadets came away with 15 individual trophies, together with the Junior Girls' and Senior Girls' and the Overall Trophy. They were 3rd in the Junior Boys', an improvement from 4th last year and 2nd by only one point in the Senior Boys', which was a great disappointment to them.

CWO Joe Linnecar and Cdt FS Liz Tunnley, our two Region Sports Cadets of the Year, took both National Trophies. Sqn Ldr Truman, Region Sports Officer said: "I have to reiterate that they were both worthy winners given the efforts they had both made last year no-one could touch them really."

The Region was also presented with the Terry Eyre Trophy once again for 8th Year running, which reflects the effort made by a great team of people, not only the cadets, but all the Staff who managed to recruit them to play in Wing teams and also arranged the transport to get them to trials and Inter-Region matches.

Following the presentation of the Terry Eyre trophy, Sqn Ldr Truman commented: "A tremendous effort of which we can be proud and which has not gone un-noticed higher up the chain of command. Well done everybody! I would be grateful if you could pass on our thanks to your individual selectors and team managers too."
 

Images: 1. Commandant Air Cadets, Air Cmdr Ian Stewart RAF, presenting the Overall Trophy to the Central & East Region Team Captain; 2. Cdt FS Liz Tunnley & CWO Joe Linnecar with their Corp Sports Cadet of the Year Trophies; 3. Air Cmdr Ian Stewart presenting the Terry Eyre Trophy to Sqn Ldr Wendy Truman & Flt Lt Kevin Bunn, Region Sports Officers.

by: Sqn Ldr Truman RAF VR(T) Central & East Region Sports Officer

19 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Wing Blues come in Twos

Two Cdt Sgts from 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn have been awarded their ‘Wing Sporting Blue’s and have been selected to represent Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing in the Senior Rugby Team.

Sgts Alex Mutton and John Ormbsy attended the Wing trials at Sutton Coldfield Rugby Club. As Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing had a very successful junior team the previous year, most of whom were now qualifying as seniors, the competition was definitely tough. After participating in a short training session, as a team, they were split into backs and forwards and started working on some more positional and tactical elements of the game.

As they would be playing Rugby Sevens for the Wing at Regional level, it was essential that they knew what their role was. After learning some of the key elements of Rugby Sevens they moved onto more advanced aspects such as calls and moves. At the end of the session the staff selected both the Sgts to be in a squad of 10 players which they would be bringing to the Inter Wing Competition at RAF Brampton.

Flt Lt Nathan Adams, Officer Commanding 2438 Squadron, said: "This is the first time in recent memory that 2438 Squadron have gained a Wing Blue in Rugby, never mind two. This demonstrates both what is available to cadets in terms of sporting events, as well as a personal achievement for the two Sergeants in getting to a level which enables them to play for the Wing."
 

Image: Cdt Sgts Alex Mutton and John Ormsby

by: CI Roni Tillman Sqn MCO 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne) Sqn - W&B Wg

19 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Runaway Win For Swadlincote Cadets
 

1211 (Swadlincote) Sqn has won the annual South & East Midlands Wing Cross Country competition for the first time in its 68 year history.

The competition took place on Sunday 15th November at Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire and despite very muddy conditions, the twenty cadets from Swadlincote raced to victory, beating 28 other teams from within Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Northamptonshire to take home four out of six trophies.

The team of young men and women from South Derbyshire raced in five different age categories and successfully won three of them, the Boys, Youths and Junior Women classes. Cdt Nicole Sigston (17) from Swadlincote, who collected the Junior Women’s Trophy, said: “I was absolutely shattered at the end of the race, but it was really worth it and I felt so proud to collect the trophy on behalf of the girls.”

Winning three classes, combined with the fantastic effort from the cadets in the other two classes, saw the 1211 Sqn lifting the overall winners trophy, presented to team captain CWO Richard Gaskell (18) by Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson, Officer Commanding South & East Midlands Wing.

Squadron Sports Officer, Flight Sergeant (ATC) Ben Turner, who led the team to its success said: “The whole team approached this competition with a great deal of self-belief, enthusiasm and determination and to win 4 out of the 6 available trophies, the cadets should be extremely proud of their achievements. As well as this being a fantastic team effort, there were also some outstanding individual performances and Cdt Sgt Aaron Figuerola (16) and a number of other members from the team will now go on to represent South & East Midlands Wing in the Regional Cross Country competition.”

2009 has been a great year of sporting and physical achievement for 1211 Sqn. Not normally known for being a ‘sporty’ unit, the cadets have represented their Squadron and Wing in Hockey, Football, Rugby, Netball, Athletics and Swimming, achieving great success in all of them. Flt Lt Rob Moore, a member of staff said, “Our cadets have gone from strength to strength this year, they keep building on previous successes and this historic Cross-Country win is evidence of this. This win has been a long time coming and against the outstanding competition today, the cadets have done themselves, their Squadron and their community proud.”

In the tradition of celebrating success 1211 style and as a small thank you to the cadets for their brilliant performance, Officer Commanding 1211 Squadron, Flt Lt Alyn Thompson actually dipped into his own pocket and treated the tired but happy cadets to a celebratory meal on the way home from the competition.

Images: 1. CWO Richard Gaskell, receives the Overall winners trophy from Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson, Officer Commanding South & East Midlands Wing; 2. 1211 Sqn Cadets with the 4 winning trophies.  L to R: Cdt Luke Thorpe with the ‘Boys’ class trophy, Cdt Sgt Aaron Figuerolla with the ‘Youths’ class trophy, CWO Richard Gaskell with the Overall winners trophy and Cdt Nicole Sigston with the ‘Junior Womens’ trophy.
 

by: Flt Lt Rob Moore RAF VR(T) 1211 (Swadlincote) Sqn - South & East Midlands Wg

15 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Record-Breaking Success.

Fresh from their success in the Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing swimming championships, two cadets from 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn were back in record-breaking action again on Sunday 1st November when they represented their Wing at the Central & East Regional Swimming Championships at RAFC Cranwell.

Cdt Gemma Porter set an outstanding pace for the junior girls when she took the Gold in the breaststroke, setting a new Regional record breaking time of 38.44. The previous record for the race being 38.60 set in 2007. Gemma also swam for the Wing in the junior girls Medley Relay, propelling her team into third place, thus adding a Bronze to her medal tally.

Cdt Joe Peffers also put on a terrific performance in his race, taking Gold in The junior boys breaststroke.

Gemma and Joe will now go on to represent the Central & East Region at the forthcoming Corps Swimming Championship on November 14th.

Flt Lt Ian Crewe Officer Commanding Nuneaton Squadron said: “We are absolutely delighted with Gemma and Joe’s swimming successes. Hopefully they can pull out all the stops at the Corps Championships and come back with some Corps Gold’s to add to their collection."

Image: Cdts Joe Peffers and record breaking Gemma Porter with their Regional medals.

by Flt Lt Paul Hincks RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn - W&B Wg

11 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Trent Supreme at Inter-Wing Swimming

On a day that saw 8 previous swimming records broken, including three Wings breaking the existing record in one race, Trent Wing team were successful in their bid for the Region's Inter-Wing Overall Swimming Championship Trophy.

In a close fought competition that saw the records tumble, the Senior Girls Medley Relay race saw the record broken by 9 seconds, setting a new target for future Inter-Wing Swimming competitions.

Sqn Ldr Brian Shorter, Assistant Region Commandant, said: "I thoroughly enjoyed this years championship and thank all  for their competitive spirit, organisation and support, it all bodes well for the Region's teams attendance at the forthcoming Corps Swimming Championship on November 14th."

Image: Sqn Ldr Brian Shorter RAFR presents the Overall Champions Trophy to Trent Wing cadets.

by Sqn Ldr Alan Wiggins RAF VR(T) Region MCO Central & East Region

2 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

SEM win the Jon Ford Trophy

Following an extremely successful sporting year, South & East Midlands Wing were presented on Sunday 1st November with the Air Commodore Jon Ford Trophy for amassing the most points in the Region's Inter-Wing sporting competitions during the 2008-2009 season.

The presentation was made in person by Air Cdre Ford, at Central & East Region's Inter Wing Swimming Championship, to the Officer Commanding South & East Midlands Wing, Wg Cdr Nigel Dickenson, and the Wing's Sports Officer, Flt Lt Lynda Waplington.

Following the presentation, Wg Cdr Dickenson said: "This award marks the culmination of a tremendous amount of hard work and effort by not only the wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Lynda Waplington, but by her team of coaches, assistants and the cadets. They deserve great credit from what they have achieved and we as a Wing are very proud indeed."

Image: Air Cmdr Ford RAF (Rtd) presents the Jon Ford Trophy to Wg Cdr Nigel Dickenson, and Flt Lt Lynda Waplington.

by Sqn Ldr Alan Wiggins RAF VR(T) Region MCO Central & East Region

2 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Region Sports Cadets of 2009

CWO Joe Linnecar and Cdt FS Liz Tunnley were presented as the Male and Female, 'Region Sports Cadets of the Year' at the Inter-Wing Swimming championships held at RAFC Cranwell on Sunday 1st November.

Their citations read;

CWO Joe Linnecar of 384 (Mansfield) Sqn is his Squadron's Sports and Training Officer and performs his duties to an excellent standard. He is a qualified football referee and has carried out this duty at both Wing and Region level and has also been requested by RAF Cranwell to assist them at their football matches. He successfully coached Trent Wing athletics team enabling them to come away with the season's overall trophy.

He assists each year with marshalling at the Mansfield Half Marathon. He is a fully qualified pool lifeguard and works at his local swimming pool and fitness complex as a lifeguard and continually attends training sessions and activities to help with his professional development.

As well as working in the local leisure industry, a lot of his spare time is devoted to volunteering in the local community as a sports leader. This is organised through his local school where he goes to local primary and secondary schools as well as local youth groups to run sport sessions. It gives him an opportunity to use his leadership skills to help young people develop their skills and aspire to achieve greater things both within sport and education. CWO Linnecar gets great pleasure and enjoyment from this.

He hopes to study for an undergraduate degree in physical education and then complete a PGCE allowing him to work as a PE teacher in secondary schools to fulfil his ambition to become a teacher. Within the ATC, CWO Linnecar intends to progress into the VR(T) when his time as a CWO expires.

Cdt FS Elizabeth (Liz) Tunley of 2313 (The Chalfonts) Sqn has Captained Wing and Regional Netball and Hockey teams, helped with the Wing Swimming team and taken a lead in organising members of the Herts & Bucks Wing Netball team. As captain of Wing, Region and Corps netball and hockey teams she has played a full part in encouraging all cadets to achieve their potential, e.g., the Corps netball team won the representative fixture for the first time ever in 2009. she is a member of the Herts and Bucks Wing Sports Council.

Outside of cadets she has provided specific coaching in netball for Years 7 – 11 at school as well as participating in “Thames Valley Adventure Playground” voluntary work with handicapped children and young adults. She has provided coaching and run a modified sports day for them.

In addition, she was Captain of her schools 1st Netball team, Vice captain of the school 1st Hockey team and Captain of the school swimming team. She was also the first ever female member of Boys 1st VII school cricket team, played for Eagles “Premiership League’ netball, played for TOGS ‘Division 1’ Netball – league winners, a member of Ruislip Rifle Club – league winners, helped organise and run school junior and senior sports days, organised school sports scholarship assessment days and was awarded a 6th Form Sports Scholarship.

They have been recommended to HQAC for the award of 'Corps Sports Cadets of the Year', which will be announced at the Inter Region Swimming Championships, to be also held at RAFC Cranwell on 14th November.

The Assistant Region Commandant, Sqn Ldr Brian Shorter RAFR, presented CWO Linnecar and Cdt FS Liz Tunnley with their Trophies and commemorative certificates.
 

Images:  CWO Joe Linnecar and Cdt FS Liz Tunnley are presented with their awards by Sqn Ldr Brian Shorter ARC

by Sqn Ldr Wendy Truman RAF VR(T) Region Sports Officer Central & East Region

2 Nov 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Beds & Cambs Cadet leads Region to Victory

 
A first-time team Captain from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn lead Central and East Region’s Junior Hockey team to victory last Saturday at DCAE Cosford.

Cdt Cpl Evie Kyprianou, who is also currently her Sqn’s Sports Cadet, was very pleased with the team’s results. Many games were so closely contested that their final placing had to be determined by goal difference.

After damp weather at the beginning of the day, the cadets played in sunny, if windy, conditions as they progressed towards the finals.

The Region did not loose a contest all day, winning three of their games and drawing the other two. Cpl Kyprianou said: “It had been a great experience to lead the winning team for my first time as captain.” Central & East Region beat Wales & West into second place after their successful campaign.

Region Sports Officer, Sqn Ldr Wendy Truman, added: “It was a delight to work with these girls today. They really did not need much motivation as they created their own team spirit and camaraderie. They provided not only inspiration for each other but a great start to the Season for C&E Region. I was pleased to be able to share their success along with their Manager, Flt Lt Michelle Worsnop and selectors and coaches Flying Officer Rachel Needham, AWO Chris Bone and CI Ian Vickers. The girls deserve their well earned victory, they have had to work hard for it against some very good teams.”

The ACO’s Deputy Sports Officer Matt Lunn said: "Saturday had been a great start to the new season with lots of closely contested games. Some of the Soccer matches went to penalties and the Hockey being decided on goal difference."

Images: Cpl Kypriano receives the trophy from Cmdt South & West Region, Gp Capt Mike Remlinger RAFR.

by Flt Lt Philip Jones RAF VR(T) - Corps Photographer (South)

26 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Bassingbourn Bring Home the Silverware!

A team of 15 Cadets from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn made a real splash at the recent Beds and Cambs Wing swimming competition, beating the 28 other Squadrons from across the Wing to win the overall trophy.

There were many great individual performances on the evening with members of the team either winning or finishing in the top three of their events, resulting in the Squadron winning the overall competition with 72 points. The team beat their nearest rivals, runners-up 1406 (Spalding) Sqn, by a massive 26 points; in third place were 1003 (Leighton Buzzard) Sqn with 43 points. The overall success was achieved by all of the Cadets who swam putting in maximum event in their heats and finals to ensure that valuable points were gained.

The Squadron’s charge to victory was led by CWO Samantha Pink (Team Captain) who won a gold and two silver medals in the Senior Girls category, swimming in the butterfly, freestyle and individual medley races. This resulted in the Squadron winning the Senior Girls category of the competition.

The Junior Girls team also brought back the trophy to Bassingbourn, having won this category last year. A bronze medal was awarded to Cdt Evie Kyprianou for breast stroke, with Cdt Katherine Hanley winning gold in her freestyle race and Cdt Charlotte Johnson achieving two gold medals for butterfly and individual medley.

In the Junior Boys category, silver was won by Cdt George Spence in the backstroke and Cdt Cpl Luke Webb took home gold in the freestyle.

Success was also achieved by the Senior Boys Team with Cdt Sgt Ben Johnson winning silver in the butterfly and individual medley and Sergeant Dale Webb charging home to win gold in the freestyle.

Squadron Sports Officer, Officer Cadet Andrew Kyprianou said: “The team spirit at 2484 is fantastic, with two minibuses full of swimmers and supporters attending, there was no doubt out of the water that 2484 had arrived! In the water, te team pushed for personal bests on every swim , every heat was a final, and the cadets really dug deep to pull a great result out of the bag. They definitely gave their all for the Squadron and the results speak for themselves.”

CWO Samantha Pink said: “I’m extremely proud of our team of cadets; they all showed such great dedication and determination throughout the competition. The team performed well in all races and I look forward to representing the Wing in the Regional Competition.”

The Beds and Cambs Wing Team, selected from the winners and runners-up of the races at this competition, will now swim against the other Wings in Central and East Region in an effort to gain further success.

Image: Cdt Charlotte Johnson receives the Junior Girls Trophy from Wg Cdr Paul Bower, Beds and Cambs Wing Commander.

by CI Gemma Brown Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

14 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Junior Boys Succeed at Wing Swimming

Nine cadets from 10F (Luton Airport) Sqn participated in the Annual Swimming Competition held at Cambridge on Saturday 10th October 2009.

The cadets competed against 30 other Squadrons from around Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire and won the Junior Boys Cup with a count of 1 Gold, 1 Silver and 2 Bronze medals.

The Squadron Commander, Flt Lt Khalid Murad said: “The evening was a great success, with maximum effort from the team. I am very proud of the achievement today and over the year so far.”

Image: The Squadron Team Cdt Cpl Cogdale, Cdt Honour, Cdt FS Gibbons, Cdts McEntee, McNally, Ct Slater, Stein and Deacon.

by: Flt Lt Khalid Murad RAF VR(T) OC 10F (Luton Airport) Sqn - Beds & Cambs Wg

13 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Rugby Champs For First Time in a Decade

 
In an outstanding performance on the sports pitches of RAFC Cranwell, the rugby team from Herts and Bucks Wing have been crowned regional champions - for the first time in 10 years.

A fiercely-fought day of competition saw the Herts and Bucks team win every game they played and - incredibly - only concede one try in the whole day.

Resplendent in their new kit, the team, made up of cadets from squadrons across the two counties, eventually beat runners-up Trent Wing in the final by an impressive 12-0.

Their performance got the final seal of approval, were it needed, when the entire team was selected for regional trials, where the Central and East team will be picked.

Herts and Bucks Wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Andy Baker, said: "I was proud to take this Herts and Bucks Rugby Team with me to RAF Cranwell - not only because they were an excellent group of rugby players but their attitude and commitment to the game and each other was fantastic. Excuse the football metaphor, but I am 'over the moon'!"

Officer Commanding Herts and Bucks Wing, Wg Cdr David Henson, added: "This is a fantastic result and I would like to say well done to all the cadets and staff involved. It's been a long time since we dominated the rugby at Region, but hopefully this is a sign of things to come."

Image: Cdt FS Chris Marchant collects the trophy.
 

by: Fg Off Ben Wilkinson RAF VR(T) Wing MCO Herts & Bucks Wg
 

12 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Southam Cadets and Staff receive Kayaking Awards

On Thursday the 8th October, Flt Lt Daryll Moreton CO of 2028 (Southam) Sqn, accompanied by CI Rogers the Squadron D of E and Adventure Training Officer presented a number of 1 Star Kayaking Certificates.

These Awards were achieved by both Cadets and a member of staff back in July 2009 when they attended a day's training at Edgbaston Reservoir in Birmingham. The day had been organised by CI Steve Rogers to introduce the Cadets to Kayaking. WO (ATC) Storer-Rogers also took part in the training.

Coaches from Birmingham Canoe Club, one of the UK’s top Clubs had conducted the training throughout the day and the award of the 1 Star Certificates is the culmination of the day's efforts by all concerned.

CI Rogers commented: "I have always tried to get the Cadets involved in something different and challenging, these awards to both the cadets and WO Storer-Rogers demonstrate that they have achieved the right level of skill, my thanks also go to the Birmingham Canoe Club and their coaches without whom this would not have been possible.”

Flt Lt Moreton added: "These awards are something quite different for an air cadet but we always try to diversify our activities and I think kayaking is certainly different from the normal!"
 

Image: The 7 Cadets with their 1 Star Awards

by: Flt Lt Daryll Moreton RAF VR(T) OC 2028 (Southam) Sqn - W&B Wg

11 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Challenged at Wing Swimming Competition

Cadets from Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing took part in their Inter Squadron Wing Swimming Championships last weekend at the Parkside Pool in Cambridge.

Two records were broken in the Championships in the Senior Boys backstroke by Cdt C Haydock from 2524 (Oakington) Sqn and in the Junior Girls breaststroke by Cdt A Sweet from 511 (Ramsey) Sqn.

10F (Luton Airport) Sqn won the Junior Boys Trophy, 2524 (Oakington) Sqn won the Senior Boys Trophy and 1406 (Spalding) Sqn won the Overall boys competition.

It was a hard fought competition with 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn walking away with 12 individual medals and winning the Junior Girls, Senior and Overall girls and also winning the Overall Competition by 26 points, pipping 1406 (Spalding) Sqn into second place, with 1003 (Leighton Buzzard) Sqn gaining 3rd position overall. Medals and Trophies were presented by Wg Cdr Paul Bower, Officer Commanding Beds & Cambs Wing.

Congratulations to all participants, and thanks to all the Staff for their assistance during the Competition.

Image: Overall winners - 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn

by: Flt Lt Margaret Bell RAF VR(T) Wing MCO Beds & Cambs Wg

11 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Derby Girls are Swimming Sensations

126 (City of Derby) Sqn are celebrating their 8th consecutive victory in the South & East Midlands Wing swimming competition. Their success this year was largely down to the sensational efforts of their female swimmers.

In a very hot and humid pool in Nottingham on Sunday, 126 Squadron notched up another sporting win. Despite stiff competition from their friends and rivals 1211 (Swadlincote) Sqn, the team from Derby claimed a clear victory. They scored 70 points overall, a massive 16 points in front of 1211 Squadron.

The Derby Senior Girls and Junior Girls teams performed exceptionally well and claimed both category trophies on the final parade. CWO Elodie Marsh, Team Captain said: “We have a really strong female team. Some of us are ex-club swimmers but most of us just had to put in some hard training to make sure we got as many points as possible for the Squadron. It was a great honour for me to collect both the Senior Girls trophy and the Overall trophy.”

A special mention should go to two of the Junior Girls who showed incredible skill and speed in their individual races. The two girls are only 14 and were very nervous before the competition started. Cdt Katie Bissell came first in the final of the Freestyle and Cdt Alice Southall came top 5 in the finals of both the Backstroke and Breaststroke.

The Senior Girls team included two sisters, CWO Elodie Marsh and Cdt Sgt Taiziya Marsh. The Senior Girls were dominant throughout the competition and gave a spectacular performance in the Freestyle relay, setting a new Wing Record of 2 minutes 30 seconds.

The Derby Boys teams should not be forgotten. Both male teams performed well and put in the maximum effort. This helped to strengthen to overall scores.

Fg Off Jackie Barker, 126 Squadron Sports Officer said: “Every single member of the Derby team worked hard towards our win. The girls were incredible and I am hoping that some of them will be even more successful when they compete in the Regional competition in November.”

Image: Cdts Katie Bissell and Alice Southall

by: Fg Off Jackie Barker RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 126 (City of Derby) Sqn  - South & East Midlands Wg

9 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sporting Excellence Rewarded

South & East Midlands Wing Sportsman and Sportswoman of the year were presented with their Trophies by Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson, Officer Commanding the Wing after the Inter Squadron swimming Competition.

The Sportswoman of the Year went to a remarkable young cadet who, in her first year in the Corps, has already gained a Wing Triple Blue in Cross Country, Athletics, Netball and Hockey. She has also gone on the represent the Region twice. Cdt Pippa Ball (14) of 1084 (Market Harborough) Sqn has not finished yet, she broke two Wing swimming records for Junior Girls at the Inter Squadron Competition and will go on to represent the Wing at the Inter Wing swimming competition.

The Sportsman of the year was presented to Cdt FS Whitehead (17), a cadet from 348 (Ilkeston) Sqn. FS Whitehead has been around for several years and has a triple blue for Rugby, Football and Hockey. He has been a constant member of the Wing rugby Team over many seasons and participates in all sports. For the example he sets for the effort he always puts in, FS Whitehead is an inspiration to his squadron and the wing.

“The choices have been extremely difficult this year with so many cadets excelling in sport. The wing is so lucky to have this pool of talent readily available to keep South and East Midlands Wing at the front in all sporting competition,” said Flt Lt Linda Waplington, the Wing’s Sports Officer.

Images: 1. Cdt FS Whitehead dwarfs the Wing Commander Nigel Dickinson when receiving his trophy; 2. Cdt Ball receives her award from the Wing Commander.
 

by Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) Wing MCO South & East Midlands Wg

5 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                              Back to top of page

Swimming Record Breakers

South and East Midlands Wing girls showed the boys how it was done by breaking six of the Wing’s swimming records at the inter squadron competition held in Nottingham.

Six of the twelve female cadet records were broken in an exciting afternoon of competition to find the Wing’s best squadron in the water. Cdt Cpl Ianelli of 1(F) (City of Leicester) Sqn broke three records for the Senior Girls, Cdt Ball of 1084 (Market Harborough) Sqn broke two Junior girl records. The team from 126 (City of Derby) Sqn broke the Senior Girls Free Style Relay record.

The overall winners of the day, and winners for the eighth time, were 126 Squadron with 1211 (Swadlincote) Sqn chasing them to the finish and 1(F) not far behind in third place.

On presenting the trophies, Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson, Officer Commanding the Wing, spoke of the Wing’s achievements so far this year, adding: “With a strong team drawn from today’s competition, this wing will be hard to beat at the inter wing competition. There has been a tremendous effort by all who took part and I am proud to lead such a committed and successful wing.”
 

Image: CWO Elodie Marsh of 126 (City of Derby) Sqn collecting the overall Winner's trophy from Wg CDr Nigel Dickinson.

by Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) Wing MCO South & East Midlands Wg

5 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                              Back to top of page

Thurston Wipe The Floor

 
At the recent Norfolk & Suffolk Wing inter-Squadron swimming competition at Wattisham, 863 (Thurston) Sqn were eventually named the overall champions.

The day started with trials to whittle the numbers down to the final few to race at the finish. Thurston managed to enter a full team sheet having a person in every race throughout the day, a fact not achieved for a fair few years. Not all of these competitors reached the finals, there were many results which were not pleasing, but the whole team still cheered their team mates on to finish the race no matter what.

Plt Off Adam Martin said: “We always try our best to get a full team sheet, and when we succeed it usually is very worthwhile when the results are given. I am very happy with the effort everyone has put in.”

The support from the squadron was second to none. In every race which had one of their team participating in the room was filled with cheering and shouting for the Thurston cadet to try their hardest. No matter what the result, congratulations were always shown to the finisher.

Thurston have won the overall champions award many times before, and hope to continue their triumphant streak for years to come.
 

Image: Wg Cdr Tony Hipperson, OC  Norfolk & Suffolk Wg, presents the overall shield to the Thurston Team Captain

by Cdt FS Josh Clarke Davis Deputy Sqn MCO 863 (Thurston) Sqn - Norfolk & Suffolk Wg
 

2 Oct 2009                                                                                                                                                                                              Back to top of page

Swimming Success For the Nuneaton Eight

A group of eight cadets have recently managed to pull off an unbelievably outstanding performance at the Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing Swimming Championships.

The eight cadets who were representing 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn must have been one of the smallest teams the Squadron had ever fielded and they must have felt as if they had no chance of any success when they were faced by much larger teams from other units.

But the Nuneaton eight, determined to do their best just kept winning medals. Cdt Gemma Porter took the Gold in the junior girls breaststroke and then another Gold in the individual medley. Cdt Joe Peffers gained the Gold in the junior boys breaststroke and then went on to clinch a Silver in the individual medley. Cdt Sarah Painter added to the 121 Squadron medal tally by winning a Bronze in the junior girls freestyle.

With an impressive total of 3 Gold, 1 Silver and a Bronze medal together with the efforts of the other five team members, 121 Squadron eventually took Joint 1st in the junior girls and 2nd in the overall girls championship.

CI Hayley Etheridge who accompanied the 121 Squadron team said: “I was delighted with our performance. We only had eight cadets in our team and to end up coming 1st in the junior girls and overall 2nd in the girls championship is just unbelievable. I would also like to thank Cdt FS Dowdall for organising the team. Hopefully the achievements of our small team of eight cadets this year will serve to encourage more of our cadets to take part next year. Who knows, perhaps we could achieve even better results with a larger team.”

Image: 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn Swimming Team (front row from left) Cdts Alcock, Peffers, Porter, Painter, Jack (back row) Cdts Parkes, Peace and Lester.

by: Flt Lt Paul Hincks RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn - W&B Wg

29 Sep 2009                                                                                                                                                                                              Back to top of page

Sporting Success

2 Cadets from 495 (Sutton Coldfield) Sqn represented the Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing at the recent Central and East Region Junior Football Championships held at RAFC Cranwell.

Cdts Joe Copley and Luke Haywood were selected for the team after attending the Wing trials. Both received runners up medals for their efforts in 3 terrific matches. After a tight 2 - 2 draw with Trent Wing in their first match the signs looked good.

Trent Wing then beat Herts and Bucks Wing 4 - 0 meaning Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing needed to beat Herts and Bucks Wing by 5 clear goals in order to make the final, the Wing raced to a 4 - 0 lead eventually scoring the important fifth goal with minutes to spare.

This set up a challenging final match with Norfolk and Suffolk Wing who were comfortable winners of their league, after a close start Norfolk and Suffolk were eventual winners with a 3 - 0 score line, leaving Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing as Runners Up.

Flt Lt Nick Upton, Officer Commanding 495 Sqn said: "Having watched all the games I know that the standards were very high, I am very pleased for both of our cadets who came away with runners up medals."

Image: Cdts Joe Copley and Luke Haywood

by Flt Lt Nick Upton RAF VR(T) OC 495 (Sutton Coldfield) Sqn - W&B Wg

29 Sep 2009                                                                                                                                                                                              Back to top of page

Swimming 'Hat-Trick' for The Chalfonts

Cadets from 2313 (The Chalfonts) Sqn cruised to victory for the third year running at the Herts and Bucks Wing Swimming Competition on Saturday.

Winning with 157 points in total, the team from 2313 beat their nearest rivals, runners-up 2409 (Halton) Sqn, by a massive 45 points. In third place were 220 (St Albans) Sqn.

The overall result came as little surprise after the Chalfonts cadets took gold in four of the six categories: junior male, overall male, junior female and overall female. The almost clean-sweep left only senior female, which went to 220 (St Albans) and senior male, which was taken by 1563 (Buckingham) Sqn.

With 26 of the Wing’s 30 units competing, there were a total of 174 cadets in attendance. As well as outstanding team performances, 11 Wing records were broken. The event took place at Westminster Lodge Sports Centre in St Albans.

Flt Lt Richard Betts, officer commanding 2313 (The Chalfonts) Sqn, said: “Unfortunately I wasn’t able to see this outstanding performance from my cadets, as I was taking part in an ATC adventure training activity elsewhere – but that doesn’t detract from my pride in their phenomenal achievement. To win this competition once is a great result, but to do it three years in a row is just incredible.”

Herts and Bucks Wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Andy Baker, said: “Once again this was a very successful and enjoyable event and I would particularly like to thank the staff whose assistance made it possible. The large number of Wing records broken and the great competitive spirit at the event suggests Herts and Bucks Wing stand a very good chance at the forthcoming Regional swimming competition.”

Image (by Flt Lt David Smith RAF VR(T)): Herts and Bucks Wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Andy Baker, congratulates CWO Ben Button and Flt Sgt Liz Tunley from 2313 (The Chalfonts) Sqn.

by Fg Off Ben Wilkinson RAF VR(T) Wing MCO Herts & Bucks Wg

17 Sep 2009                                                                                                                                                                                                   Back to top of page