- 40-mile endurance race draws competitors from across the Royal Signals including female, mixed and reservist teams.
- General Dame Sharon Nesmith DCB was at the 4am start to set off the teams.
- The winners were 216 (Para) Sig Sqn despite some horrendous weather conditions on Dartmoor.
In 1979, a young Royal Signals officer from 216 (Parachute) Signal Squadron called Pete Richards designed a competition that would challenge his comrades: a 40-mile race over the South Downs carrying 30lbs of weight in combat clothing, open to teams of eight people, all serving in the Royal Signals. It was named after the lanyard that the Squadron OC at Arnhem told his soldiers to make out of the cords of their parachutes, so has huge historical significance.
Forty five years later, the event still draws a huge amount of support and is a rite of passage for many in the Royal Signals. This year, the race took place on Dartmoor and saw 25 teams take part.
In shocking weather conditions which included hail, rain and driving wind, the teams lined up for the 4am start where the Deputy Chief of the General Staff, General Dame Sharon Nesmith DCB set them off. Lieutenant General Dame Sharon Nesmith DCB said, ‘Lanyard is such a great event, as it encapsulates everything good about the Army, offering challenge and competition whilst building teamwork. Everyone who attempts it feels a sense of achievement, and that they are part of something really special. I am so proud of everyone that put themselves forward to take part in this fantastic annual competition.’
Captain Joe Cripps of 216 (Para) Sig Sqn who, alongside his Training Team, organised this year’s event said, ‘Lanyard Trophy is historic military competition within the Corps. It develops confidence amongst the competitors in their ability to push their bodies and minds over Dartmoor’s arduous terrain. It is great to have both regular Army and reserve teams taking part, and this year has easily been one of the best, but I might be biased.’
The full results are as follows:
First Place - 216 (Para) Sig Sqn, awarded the SAXONY Trophy as well.
The SAXONY trophy is awarded to the team the completed the course with all 8 team members.
Second - 11 Signal Regiment A Team.
Third - 1 Signal Regiment
RESERVE + MIXED
37 Signal Regiment
FEMALE TROPHY
30 Signal Regiment
