Race the Sun took place yesterday in glorious sunshine with 14 Signal Regiment taking home the overall prize, closely followed by a composite team from 39/71 Regiment (Reserves) and 3DSR third.
The annual Royal Signals challenge included orienteering, mountain biking, cross-country running and a stretcher race, with a gruelling 'warrior fitness' segment being added for the first time. Three hundred athletes from the Corps - both regular and reserve - took part, racing in mixed teams against the clock to complete the elements, all taking place within the York garrison, in the lowest combined time.
“I had heard about Race the Sun from some of the older members of the unit, but I didn’t really know what to expect," said Sig Coleman from 2 Signal Regiment. "It was really good fun competing against other units and great to see friends from other regiments. I’d never been on a proper cross-country event before… it was cool to run around Dalby Forest!”
Race the Sun was started as an inter-squadron competition in 1990 with the aim of allowing soldiers the opportunity to demonstrate athletic talents and enjoy the Yorkshire countryside. Since then, the event has run on 31 occasions in various guises, only missing one year due to the COVID pandemic and last year being run virtually.
“Returning Race the Sun to a physical event in North Yorkshire has been a great challenge for the organising team and would not have been possible without the assistance and support of the England Forestry Commission, York Sports Village, BLKBOX, Moette Clothing and the wider York Garrison Community," said race organiser Major Andy McGrane. "We have changed the format this year to better reflect the physical demands required and sporting preferences of our soldiers, specifically with the inclusion of British Army Warrior Fitness and Triathlon, whilst maintaining the essential elements of teamwork and resilience. These changes were well received by all the teams and made for a great occasion.”
