Edition 44

This week, we have updates on exciting opportunities to tackle the Assault and Endurance Courses at the Commando Training Centre, as well as news of enduring partnerships and remarkable efforts in support of the Royal Marines Family.

Thank you so much for your continued support.

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Running through the Sahara Desert

John Holley, from High Wycombe, is set to take on the toughest foot race on Earth, the Marathon des Sables, to raise money for RMA – The Royal Marines Charity in memory of his grandfather who was a Royal Marine.

On 21st April, John will run 156 miles in the middle of the Sahara Desert over 6 days. The Marathon des Sables is known to be one of the most gruelling races in the world and requires participants to be well-prepared both physically and mentally.

John has chosen to raise money for the Charity in memory of his grandfather Jim (Ivor) Pook who was a Royal Marine. His grandfather’s life was filled with determination, physicality, irreverence, acerbic wit, and intellect that he admires greatly. When his grandfather passed away, the Royal Marines sent a bugler to play the Last Post at his funeral, an honour which he found particularly touching.

Exciting and Innovative Learning

This week, our Employment & Education team visited SA Safety, based in Newton Abbot. During their visit, the team had the pleasure of meeting with Mark Shadick (right), the Managing Director, and Dave Tucker (left), the Operations Director.

SA Safety specialises in providing customised training that enables clients to develop their Health & Safety Policy. Their focus is on empowering clients with the knowledge and skills they need to create a safe and healthy workplace. Additionally, they strive to create an innovative, exciting, and enjoyable learning environment that caters to the needs of all learners.

“We are extremely proud to have the beginning of a great working partnership with SA Safety, the team at SA Safety have created a fantastic learning environment for those leaving military service”

Commando Training Challenge – 20th July 2023

Do you have what it takes to dig deep and be put through your paces by a Royal Marines’ PTI team?

This is a truly unique opportunity for you to pit yourself against the original and only Royal Marines Endurance Course.

The Royal Marines are an elite element of the UK Armed Forces and this event will give you the chance to test your resolve on the Corps’ own Endurance and Assault courses.

The winner of this event will carry home the Commando Training Challenge Cup and all participants will receive a commemorative medal and certificate, celebrating their outstanding achievement. 🥇

Spaces for this event are extremely limited.

Persevering Through Adversity

Craig Hunter has been adjusting to the altitude during his journey to base camp of Mount Everest and although it has been challenging, he is persevering.

During the previous day, Craig went on a hike for several hours, which went well and is now starting to acclimatise to the altitude.

“Unfortunately, we did get some sad news over the weekend, 3 Sherpas passed away. Our hearts go out to their families during this difficult time. Despite these circumstances, work continues and their resilience is truly remarkable.”

“We’re adjusting our plans to climb smaller peaks for acclimatisation. This means less journeys through the Khumbu Icefall. In the next few days, I’ll be considering this option.”

Danube Adventure

John Holden, one of our members and a regular volunteer is setting off on a Kayaking adventure in June down the Danube to raise funds for several charities including RMA – The Royal Marines Charity.

‘We’re raising £5000 to help selected Charities across Somerset, Motor Neurone Disease and RMA – The Royal Marines Charity. Dig Deep folks Thank you. Please donate to my JustGiving Crowdfunding Page and help make it happen”