Tbh I have never been that sure why we even do RM at all as an org!
It’s not my idea of fun
1 Like
I loved it as a Cadet, zero interest now though.
I’m sure that there are people in the ATC, and probably on here, who would argue the same about every activity that a cadet could do.
For me, it would be shooting; go and join the ACF 
They do things in greens.
1 Like
For me it would be Air Rec, we don’t need to spot incoming German air raids anymore.
3 Likes
That’s what Merkel wants you to think.
1 Like
I gave it a shot and enjoyed myself at first, but everybody on the team was just incredibly mean. I guess that’s the team spirit in action and they’d certainly claim it was all banter, but it wasn’t for me.
I think that was just kids being kids… I was constantly called ‘Gary’ for some unbeknownst reason and it really irked me and I don’t know why… my reaction probably made them do it more.
But overall the comraderie of road marching and the opportunity to meet other mad folks from all over the world is second to none, and a great achievement (specifically Nijmegen) but I’m sure these other events will also be a similar achievement.
I’m glad to be getting back into it!
I feel gutted for the staff who had put in so much work getting the new event to this point!
1 Like
if you’re referring to who I think you are then I totally understand and I’d agree with you
1 Like
Unless they plan to do it via Boeing 737 our air rec syllabus wouldn’t be of any use anyway 
Having been to Nijmegen twice, Cosford and Sandbach plus several dozen training walks and now currently putting together a pitch for this year’s training season, I’ll give you a few thoughts…
Why we do it…? Partly tradition. Our involvement at Nijmegen as part of the British Military Contingent has been going on for donkey’s years…
Ask cadets that have been to Nijmegen and (provided they trained well enough and were well supported by their team leaders) and they’ll all tell you that it’s a bit of a hoot.
While yes it IS a blooming long walk, you’re doing it not only as part of a team, but part of a recognised, uniformed organisation - the support and recognition you get from the crowd is incredible.
For those that haven’t been - cross Notting Hill Carnival with The London Marathon and a Summer Camp… and you’re probably getting close…
Our wing usually begins training in January (but we’re hoping to start sooner…).
We begin with short walks and build the distance up every fortnight…
The last couple of years we’ve had 100% success amongst staff AND cadets, because they stick with the training.
We support the cadets and (newbie) staff every step of the way.
It is brilliant exercise - it’s relatively low impact but moderate to high cardio over a sustained period of time.
As training progresses, all participants become leaner, stronger and fitter. Core strength is vastly increased as a result you find yourself walking everywhere in a more erect fashion - you stand taller, you convey greater confidence and increased presence.
The 2 day RAFWARMA Cosford event is used as an assessment for active service personnel to measure personal resilience…! This is not a namby pamby exercise.
If you can complete Cosford (or LaSER Longmoor, Lyneham, Waendel or Gaerloch) you WILL complete Nijmegen!!!
At the heart of our training are team building and team work as well as the development of personal resilience.
As a global population, we walk FAR less than we used to. The Nijmegen March was initiated as a response to a fear that Dutch military personnel might become weaker with the advent of motorised transport (yes its been going that long!).
Road Marching isn’t about being the fastest or even the best looking - it’s about achieving a major goal, as a team - together!
Bringing it back to local level… Road Marching is an activity that requires relatively little specialised equipment. It needn’t require onerous travel to events as Blue Badge training is intended to be delivered at a local or sector level.
From a public perspective - it’s about extending the “Blue Footprint” - being SEEN to be doing something in your local area… and CADETS being seen to be doing something “constructive…”, healthy and active…!
Don’t get me wrong, it isn’t for everyone, but it doesn’t need to be “for no one”.
Lastly - in our case - it’s a more regular opportunity for cadets across our wing to meet mates from other squadrons…
When you consider that not everyone is having a great time at school or at home, or sometimes, even in their own squadron - making connections with other cadets from outside of their town / county can often bring incredibly valuable opportunities for them to socialise!
Oh - and from a parent’s point of view… it’s a few hours more of their sons and daughters not being on devices, doing some Wholesome and getting some fresh air!!
4 Likes
This is great. If you need any help or advice, just ask.
What region are you in?
Me? SW
1 Like