Current Sporting News from Central & East Region

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Fourteen Firsts for Derby

126 (City of Derby) Sqn has won the South & East Midlands Wing Athletics competition for the 14th consecutive year. 126 Squadron is the only unit to have ever won the Wing Athletics competition since the South & East Midlands Wing was formed in 1999.
 

The competition took place on a very warm and sunny Sunday at Saffron Lane Athletics Stadium in Leicester. The cadets from Derby delivered amazing results on the track and field and won the competition by almost 30 points. As well as walking away with the overall title, the squadron won the Youths age category and came second in the Junior Men, Girls and Junior Women categories.

Facing incredibly stiff competition from 1211 (Swadlincote) and 1359 (Beeston) Sqns, the Derby team had to work hard to retain their title. The field events brought in vital points with cadets performing exceptionally well in the High Jump and Javelin. On the track, the team scored vital points in the relays and sprint areas.

The team from 126 Squadron believe their continued success at Wing Athletics is not just down to training but dedication, determination and above all a team spirit that is unique to Derby.

Sgt (ATC) Elodie Marsh, Sports Officer at Derby Squadron said: “Our cadets are proud to represent their squadron. Every single cadet is aware of Derby’s sporting achievements and none of them want to let the squadron down. On the day, despite two late changes due to illness, they pulled together, produced some unbelievable results and came away with another outstanding win.”

by: Fg Off Jackie Glover RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 126 (City of Derby) Sqn - SEM Wg

21 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

759 on Track for Gold

In May, 759 (Beccles) Sqn went to Northgate, Ipswich with 8 cadets, all taking part in the Norfolk and Suffolk athletics tournament. The cadets all tried their hardest and participated in events such as high jump, long jump, javelin, discuss, shot put and track events.

Cdt Cpl Sophie McGregor said: “Athletics this year was a very challenging and competitive event. The eight cadets that took part did extremely well representing the squadron. I enjoyed athletics this year, trying out new events was interesting however, I wish to do better next year.”

The squadron returned with two bronze and a gold medal in the 1500 won by Cdt Sparks. A huge well done to all those that participated in the day.

by: CWO Chloe Smithson Sqn MCO 759 (Beccles) Sqn - N&S Wg

20 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sporting Progress for 487 Squadron

The Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing inter-squadron 5-a-side football and netball competitions were held on Sunday 19th May, at Stockland Green School.

487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn turned up in numbers and were able to enter full teams into all three competitions; the junior and senior boys 5-a-side and the girls netball. Despite forecasts to the contrary, the weather was kind and the sun shone all day on the competitors.

The junior boys 5-a-side team showed they meant business from the off, beating 165 Sqn 7-1 in their first game. They carried that success all the way into the quarter-finals of the competition, an achievement that was also emulated by the senior boys’ team.

By far the surprise package of the day was the girls’ netball team, who reached the semi-finals of the competition. A remarkable achievement when you consider many of the team had never played netball prior to the competition!

FS (ATC) Steve Taylor, bus driver, team manager and admin assistant on the day, was reflective of the days events: “The best thing about today was the number of 487 cadets who turned up to take part and support their squadron. To reach the quarter and semi finals in all three competitions was a great result.”

The squadron hope to use today’s near-victories as a springboard to success in other sporting competitions.

by: Sgt (ATC) Nicky Gallivan Sqn MCO 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn - W&B Wg

19 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

864 in Sports Success

On the 12 May 2013. thirteen cadets from 864 (Watton) Sqn braved the weather at Ipswich Northgate arena to participate in the Inter squadron Norfolk and Suffolk Wing athletics.

864 squadron had some excellent results with up to four cadets going on to partake in the regional completion on the 2nd of June. Cdt Cpl Alice Macloughlin won the senior girls javelin throwing 25m, less than one meter from the wing record. Cdt Lee also received gold for the junior girls with her discus throw and silver for her javelin. Cdt Anscombe came second in the junior girls 1500m and Cdt Sgt Batty also got silver in 1500m for the junior men’s. Cdt Batty came third in junior girl’s long jump.

Overall the squadron was awarded 3rd place for junior girls and 3rd place for overall girl’s achievements. Cdt Everitt said: “It was a fantastic day! I got to see some friends from other squadrons and the sports competition was excellent. The sportsmanship between all of the squadrons was brilliant.”

by: Cdt Sgt Anscombe 864 (Watton) Sqn - N&S Wg
 

17 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Region Football Success

Last Saturday saw Cdt Samuel Avent from 51 (Orton) Sqn make his way to RAFC Cranwell to compete in the Inter Region football competition for Central and East Region.

The Region had their work cut out for them, after they were told that our Region had not won since 2004 and oh what a challenge that gave them. With the target set, Central and East boys hit the ground running, and soon started to make their mark as they won both of their group games in quick succession, which in turn earned them a place in the final.

Their opponents in the final were London and South East region, who had also been dominant in their qualifying group so the game was clearly going to be tough.

The game was tough from the onset, with it looking as if it was going to go to penalties, right from the beginning. It was close with London and South East hitting the cross bar inside five minutes. This close shave obviously caused Central and East to react as a free kick from Cdt Avent found a strikers head, which helped the ball into the back of the net, this first goal started the dominance from Central and East who managed to score two more to win the final 3-0.

Cadet Avent said “The whole event was great fun, with a good team spirit, and I am now looking forward to next year.”

by: CI Natasha Robinett Sqn MCO 51 (Orton) Sqn - B&C Wg

15 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Bury Cadets Strike Gold

Cadets from 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn have enjoyed a gold rush at the recent Norfolk and Suffolk Athletics Competition, when the cadets come away with thirteen medals and two trophies in the annual event at Northgate Sports Centre.

28 cadets from the squadron travelled to Ipswich on the morning of 12th May to compete in numerous different events on both the field and track. The strong squadron team participated in a host of different events including the javelin, long jump and track events over a number of different distances.

The effort put into the training at Abbeycroft Leisure Centre in Bury paid off with the cadets sweeping the table with 13 medals. The track events proved a particular success with eleven of the medals coming from the track.

In the male events, Cdt Jack Scott was named the Best Cadet at the event coming home with 2 gold medals and an invitation to represent Norfolk and Suffolk at Saffron Lane Stadium in Leicester. Cdt Sgt Glenn MacLoughlin and Cdt Matt Osbourne both came away with both gold and bronze medals. The female events saw a similar success with Cdt FS Sara Cross obtaining a bronze medal in the Long Jump. Cdt Chloe Turner Dockery finished second in the shot put event.

The squadron finished third overall from a twenty nine strong representation from across the area. Two trophies came from being the Junior Boys overall winners.

Following the success at the event, Sports Officer, Matthew Drewry, said: "It was fantastic seeing our cadets standing on the first place spot on the podium to collect their medals! They all put in a lot of hard work which can be seen from our medal tally. They are a real credit to the squadron and I hope the cadets heading to compete in Leicester have a similar success!"

Images: 1. Bury Cadets with their trophies; 2 Cdt Jack Scott collects the 'Best Cadet' from Wg Cdr David Miller

by: CI Dan Garlick Sqn MCO 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn - N&S Wg

14 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Going For Gold

Cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn arrived at the Bedford International Athletics Stadium on Sunday ready to represent their squadron with pride, the cadets assembling for the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing annual athletics tournament.

The cadets competed in a range of track and field events with the squadron winning three Bronze, four Silver and eight Gold medals in the process. Gold medal winners were Cdt FS Matt Richards in the Men’s 800m, Cdt Sgt Alex McIntyre in the Youth’s 400m, Cdt Nathan Monck in the Youth’s Discus and the Youth Relay team consisting of Cdt Sgt Alex McIntyre, Cdt Cpl Robbie Neal, Cdts Hugo Barker and Nathan Monck.

The squadron was also proud to have been placed third in the Junior Women age group, first in the Youth Boys age in addition to coming third in the competition overall. Staff from the squadron supported the event by helping to run the javelin, shotput and discus field events.

Cdt Nathan Monck who won Gold in the 4x100m Relay and Discus and Bronze in the 200m said: “I really enjoyed representing the squadron and was so proud of the medals I won. When we found out about the trophies it was excellent news for the team.”

Flt Lt Keith Hicks added: “The cadets have done so well to achieve what they did today; they worked together throughout the day helping and supporting each other. It is the kind of camaraderie that makes the cadets bond.”

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

14 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Gold and Silver for Arden’s Aimee

On what is beginning to look like the only hot day of 2013, cadets from Warwickshire and Birmingham came to Solihull to compete at athletics. Nine of 2286 (Arden) Sqn’s cadets participated under the watchful eye of manager CI Ellen Seymour.

With cadets making a number of finals and enjoying a number of events, the squadron was very pleased with the turnout and effort, and delighted when Aimee Hollingsworth first took gold at javelin and then silver at 300m. Aimee will now be representing the wing at Athletics in the forthcoming Regional Athletics competition.

CI Ellen Seymour said: "The results were fantastic and thank you to all the cadets for their participation in the event."

by: Fg Off Julie Seymour RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 2286 (Arden) Sqn - W&B Wg

14 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

It’s Raining 'Cups and Medals!'

Sunday 12th May saw twenty cadets from 1406 (Spalding) Sqn make the relatively short trip to Bedford International Athletics Stadium for the annual Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing athletics competition. The cadets competed in a range of events ranging from 100m on the track to high jump on the field.
 

High spirits were definitely required on the day as the rain set in for the afternoon, but it did not dampen spirits, moral or motivation from all the cadets, and their sheer determination and resilience throughout the day was outstanding.

Despite some tough competition the squadron was able to come home with a large haul of medals and trophies! Three of these were gold earned by Cdts Steve Wilson (Shot put junior Boys), Emily Ransome (300m) and Ruth Sandford (Shot put, both Junior Girls). All three now go on to represent the wing next month at the Inter-Wing Competition to be held at Leicester Stadium.

The final surprises of the day for the squadron were yet to come, when the final results were announced. The Squadron was rewarded for their hard work with the announcement they were 'Winners of the Junior Girls and Overall Girls Shields'!

If that was not enough to be going home with, the final accolade came when the squadron were crowned as the Overall Athletics Champions for Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing of 2013. The look of surprise on the cadets and squadron staff alike was priceless.

Afterwards Cdt Cpl Oxby said: “The squadron were so proud to be confirmed the winner of the competition for this year, it goes to show that with good old team work, determination and the support of our staff what can be achieved, all the cadets would like to thank Mr Aluzzi (team manager) and Mr and Mrs Nell (coaching staff) for their efforts in getting us to this level."

Image by CI Jeffrey Henshaw 22 (Sandy) Sqn: Winning Team with Far Left Team Manager Mr Aluzzi, Centre Left and Right of Trophies Mrs and Mr Nell Respectively

by WO (ATC) Chris Bone Sqn MCO 1406 (Spalding) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

14 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sandy Cadets Take Home Gold, Silver & Bronze

On Sunday 12th May, cadets from 22 (Sandy) Sqn took home a staggering haul of 18 medals at this year’s Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire wing athletics competition. Competing against cadets from across Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire, the cadets managed to impressively win nine Gold medals, five Silver and 2 bronze, doubling the Squadron’s previous best ever result of eight medals.

The squadron won the first event of the day, with Cdts Connor Kilby (13), Peter Hessey (14), Matthew Foster (14), and Ian Mansion (14) taking first place in the Class A Boys 4x100 metre relay, each receiving a gold medal. In Class A Boys, Cdt Kilby also took the bronze in the Discus, and Cdt Mansion won gold in the 800 metres, and silver in both the Shot, and Javelin.

In the Class B Youths, Cdt Cpl William Clubb (16) took two impressive wins in both the 100 metre and 200 metre sprints, as well taking silver in the long jump.

The Class E Junior Women also took a haul of medals, with Cdt Cpl Lauren Barton (16) taking Gold medals in the 800 metres, and long jump for the second year running, as well as a Silver in the 100 metres, and Cdt FS Laura Dorrell (16) received Silver in the Shot, and bronze in the Discus.

Cdt Cpl Lauren Barton commented: “A very good job done by all! Especially pleased to see the effort from the cadets and having achieved as much as they did.”

Many of the medal winning cadets will now have the opportunity of going on to represent Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire wing at the Inter-Wing athletics competition on the 2nd June.

by: CI Jeffrey Henshaw Sqn MCO 22 (Sandy) Sqn - B&C Wg

13 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Double Sporting Success at Wisbech

Representing the Wing at one sport is an ambition for many cadets, but doing so twice in quick succession is a bonus. Cdt Maddie Callaghan (16), from 272 (Wisbech) Sqn, represented the Wing at both Inter-Wing Hockey and Netball held at RAFC Cranwell in Lincolnshire recently.

The Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing netball team finished fifth in their competition but the experience gained was valuable and will help the team focus for next year. However it was in the inter-wing hockey that the team really shined through as they came second in the competition. Hard work and determination by all the players saw their efforts rewarded.

As well as a silver medal for the performance cadets were presented with the coveted ‘Wing Blue.’ This is awarded when an individual represents the Wing and is very much sought after.

"Cdt Callaghan has only been with the squadron for nine months and it is quite a feat for her to be representing the Wing at two different sports," said CI Laura Nixon: “This is the first time in a several years that a cadet has represented the wing at two different team sports." Attention now turns to the Inter-Squadron Athletics in May.

Image: Cdt Maddie Callaghan with her wing blue and silver medal

by: CI Laura Nixon Sqn MCO 272 (Wisbech) Sqn - B&C Wg

09 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

More Wing Blues for 1360 Squadron

As 1360 (Stapleford and Sandiacre) Sqn have shown their ability in sports this year the achievement was finally awarded to the cadets that had represented the squadron.

Cdt Cpls Jade Cox (14) and Shannon Conway (15) received their wing blue badges to show how they had represented South and East midlands wing in the junior girl’s hockey and junior girl’s netball. Each time the sporty pair represents the wing they will receive these badges to proudly show off. We as a squadron are really proud of our Corporals for their efforts and taking up their weekends to show what their made of.

We hope to push more of our new recruits to follow in their footsteps and achieve as many wing blues as they can. It has been a tremendous few months for the squadron when achieving high in the sports area. We are looking forward to the rest of the year bring on some more sports stars to represent the squadron!

Cpl Jade Cox said: “I love representing the squadron and I also love playing netball, nothing is going to stop me representing the squadron and wing in the future.”

by: Cdt FS Abbie Jones Sqn MCO 1360 (Stapleford and Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg

09 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sporting Success for Brigg Cadet

A cadet from 2222 (Brigg) Sqn has been selected to represent the Region in the Corps Junior Football Competition after recently representing his Wing. Cdt Bradley Campion (15) was selected for the Junior Football team after several matches representing Trent Wing.

Cdt Campion said: "I felt lucky and privileged to be selected from the other cadets in the Region. There were some really talented players on the pitch so I am really happy to have been selected.”

Bradley’s sporting talents also excel within his school environment where he has represented the school in cricket, badminton, handball and rugby.

Flt Lt Gill Wills Commanding Officer of Brigg Sqn said: “This is yet another fantastic achievement for the Squadron. We have some extremely talented young sportsmen and women within the squadron and the Air Cadets help them reach their potential. I wish Bradley the best of luck in the forthcoming football competition.”

by: FS (ATC) Fiona Bayes Sqn MCO 2222 (Brigg) Sqn - Trent Wg

07 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Fun Run Experience for 1360

As if competing in Cadet Sports wasn’t enough for the cadets from 1360 (Stapleford and Sandiacre) Sqn, on Friday 19th April nine of them set upon competing in the Erewash Fun Run! This is a local event where friends and family can get involved, getting fresh air to their lungs and doing some exercise.

Cadets from 1360 Squadron had volunteered themselves to run that day, who thought running could be fun? But the cadets weren’t running to try and prove that running can be made fun, they were running to raise money for the Squadron. Added incentive for the Cadets to do well was the guest appearance of the Commanding Officer Flt Lt Gareth Fowler who entered the event alongside the cadets. The Run itself was 5km Run around the hilly Hemlock Stone Park which each cadet ran, walked or crawled to make it over the finish line. It was really a great event for the squadron.

Cdt Oliver Kirk (15) who took part in the fun run said: “I had a really good time at the fun run I enjoyed the support from friends and family, I found the run challenging but it didn’t stop me from completing it.”

Flt Lt Fowler said: “This was the inaugural event for the squadron but is definitely one that we will repeat in the future. I am very pleased that only one of the cadets beat me round the course, so special congratulations go to Cdt Dinsdale. I look forward to competing against more of the cadets next year, Well done 1360!"

by: Cdt FS Abbie Jones Sqn MCO 1360 (Stapleford and Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg

05 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

5-a-Side for Trent Girls!

On 28th April, four girls from 2222 (Brigg) Sqn joined by two girls from 1265 (Horncastle) Sqn joined forces to compete in the Girls 5-a-side football competition at RAFC Cranwell.

The team consisted of Cdt Sgt Lottie Yates, Cdts Rebecca Hopper, Jamie Parrott, Savannah Wesson and Molly Baker all from Brigg and Cdts Kerri Roberts and Tyne Stedman from Horncastle. Overall the team had a good day with the star scorers being Sgt Yates and Cdt Kerri Roberts.

The team won 1 match, but sadly lost the remaining 3 games. Although no further matches were won after the first, the team did extremely well in ensuring they kept to a minimum the amount of goals that went into their net.

Sgt (ATC) Michaela Harris, Brigg Squadron's Sports Officer, said; “It was a great day and the team played really well. Considering the team had never played together before the girls put in a fantastic effort. I am very proud of them all.”

Image: Back row Cdt Sgt Lottie Yates, Cdts Rebecca Hopper, Jamie Parrott, Savannah Wesson and Molly Baker: Front row Cdts Tyne Stedman and Kerri Roberts.

by: FS (ATC) Fiona Bayes Sqn MCO 2222 (Brigg) Sqn - Trent Wg
 

02 May 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Bury Enjoy Rugby Success

Last weekend a team from 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn travelled to Diss Rugby Club to participate in Norfolk and Suffolk’s Air Cadet Sportivate Cup. The cup brings together cadets from all over Norfolk and Suffolk to participate in a tag rugby competition.

Sportivate is a national campaign that aims to capture the excitement of sport, providing opportunities for teenagers and young people to receive six weeks of sport. Sportivate saw Bury Squadron team up with Bury Rugby Club, with Ben Scully from the club coaching the cadets for six weeks.

Bury joined 10 other squadrons from across East Anglia to participate in the annual event. Bury met teams from Sudbury, Lowestoft, Dereham and Wattisham in the group stages, winning two of their four games and finishing second. In the Semi Final they met 188 (Ipswich) Sqn, beating them 1-0 before losing out to 2470 (Sudbury) Sqn in the Final. Bury hope to push for the cup next year having finished as runners up to Sudbury for the past two years.

Sports Officer, Matt Drewry, said following the success: "It’s great to see the cadets competing against other squadrons from the area. The cadets have done both themselves and the squadron proud with the effort that they have put into both the training and this weekend’s competition! We aim to take the cup home next year! I would like to thank both the squadrons from the Norfolk and Suffolk Wing for their co-operation and also Sportivate for making the event possible."

Image: Cadets from 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn finish runners up in the Norfolk and Suffolk Air Cadet Sportivate Cup.

by: CI Dan Garlick Sqn MCO 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn - N&S Wg

23 Apr 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

1360 Go Regional at Netball

From rugby to football to hockey and netball successes, 1360 (Sandiacre and Stapleford) Sqn have had a cracking start to the year when it comes to sports trials.

Just when we thought we’d topped the sports, Cdt Cpl Jade Cox (14) pushed us further up the sports table! After playing in the South and East Midlands Wing Junior Girls Netball Team she was picked for the Regional trials which took place at RAF Wittering.

It was an early morning start and a long drive to Peterborough, but she arrived ready and determined to make the Regional Team! After a long day of playing numerous netball games changing positions and lots of running back and forth, eyes being scratched out and nails being broken it was cutting time for all the hopeful cadets!

It was decision time for Cpl Cox, standing there hoping to make the team she jumped with achievement as her name was called out, she had made the Regional Girls Netball Team! It was well worth the time and effort she had put into that day! CpL Cox had really done 1360 Squadron proud!

Cpl Cox said: “It was a long hard day for me as I had a long travel up to RAF Wittering to compete in the trials but it was so worth it! I’m really proud of myself that I have made the Regional Netball Team it’s a great achievement for me and now I’ve done it for the squadron. I can’t wait to get stuck in at the Regional Netball Competition.”

by: CI Abbie Jones Sqn MCO 1360 (Stapleford and Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg

16 Apr 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Wing Blue For Ben

Congratulations go to Cdt Ben Allen of 1300 (Sutton-in-Ashfield) Sqn, who has recently represented the squadron by playing for Trent Wing in the Wing Rugby finals at RAFC Cranwell.

He has been selected now represent the Region at the Regional finals at RAF Brampton in April!

He was presented with his Wing Blue for competing at Wing Level on Squadron Parade Night Monday 25th March 2013. Well done Ben, if it all goes well enough you could end up representing the Corps!!!
 

Image: Cdt Ben Allen's Wing Blue for Rugby

by: WO (ATC) Amanda Coleman Sqn MCO 1300 (Sutton-in-Ashfield) Sqn - Trent Wg

10 Apr 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

The Team Needs You!

After recent success at the cross country competition, cadets from 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn got stuck into yet more sports!

With the competitions fast approaching, South and East Midlands Wing set out the trials for a Junior Boys Football team and a Junior girls Hockey Team. 1360 sent 4 cadets to RAF Wittering to try out. The great talent of the squadron was proved when Cdt’s Ongoma and Kirk as well as Cdt Cpl McPherson made the Football team. Meanwhile on the astro turf, Cdt Cpl Conway was selected as the Hockey teams goal keeper.

With 4 years wing football experience, 3 of those as captain, Cdt FS Osbiston also attended to help coach the football team. He will also attend the competition at RAFC Cranwell in 2 weeks’ time.

by: Abbie Jones 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg

03 Apr 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sprint Finish at Region Cross Country

It was a mild day at RAFC Cranwell and three of the top athletes from 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn were up bright and early ready to run for South and East Midlands Wing.

Cdt FS Liam Osbiston (17), Cdt Cpl Shannon Conway (14) and Cdt Joel Terry (15) ran a 3 mile cross country course. After long intense running the athletes came to a quick finish as FS Liam Osbiston sprinted to the finish to claim 6th place. Cpl Shannon Conway led behind in the junior girl’s category sprinting to a close 7th place.

We congratulate all three of the road runners! After results were counted in it was time to announce which wing had won the Regional Cross Country. With a huge roar of excitement South and East Midlands had been placed 1st Place!

What a great day for the cadets! Well done to everyone! Cpl Conway said: “I love running and when it comes to cross country I love a challenge I always push myself to the limit to try and reach the closest place if not 1st!”

by: Fg Off Gareth Fowler RAF VR(T) 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg
 

25 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Blues Trio

Three cadets from 1406 (Spalding) Sqn were recently in action for Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at the Inter Wing Junior netball competition held at RAFC Cranwell.

Cdts Emily Brand, Emily Ransome and Megan Aluzzi who have only been with the Squadron for four Months were selected to represent the Wing following the Inter Squadron competition held earlier this year.

Despite their young age, all three cadets performed strongly against some very well drilled teams from across the region, and can take away from the competition some valuable experiences for their budding sporting careers within the cadet organisation.

The cadets can be seen proudly showing off their Wing team Colours before later getting presented with their Wing Blues awarded for representing the Wing at this level.

Image: Cdts Emily Brand, Emily Ransome and Megan Aluzzi

by WO (ATC) Chris Bone Sqn MCO 1406 (Spalding) Sqn - B&C Wg

24 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Take To… Water?

12 cadets and 6 members of staff from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn and 2484 (Cambourne) DF teamed up to raise funds for The East Anglian Air Ambulance Service, Headway and Rotary Club of Royston Trust Fund at a Swimathon hosted by Royston Rotary Club.

The teams were made up of 6 members who swam for an hour completing as many lengths as possible. The staff team where beaten by the younger cadet teams but all had great fun and their efforts where after all for the charity. 2484 Sqn would like to thank the Rotary club for their continued support and we will endeavour to continue supporting them in the future.

Flt Lt Andrew Kyprianou said: “It was really good to see how many cadets and staff made the effort to help support the Royston Rotary Club in their fund raising efforts for these very worthwhile causes."

Image: The 2 teams of cadets, each team swam over 100 lengths

by: CI Sam Scowen Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn and 2484 (Cambourne) DF - B&C Wg

21 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

First Wing Blues at the Double

Cdts Lammas & Sinfield of 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn are celebrating receiving their first Wing Blues this month, and then both went on to receive a second.

Cdt Lammas’ first Wing representation was for cross country having finished in 3rd place in the inter–squadron competition. Attendance at the junior girls hockey trials resulted in Cdt Sinfield being selected for the Wing team and awarded her first Wing Blue.

Both of the girls were then successfully for the Wing junior netball team. The Regional competition saw the Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing finish in second place, on goal difference, with them having beaten the winning team. Cdts Lammas & Sinfield were presented with their second Wing blues of the month along with their silver medals. The girls were also delighted at being selected to attend the Regional netball trials at RAF Cranwell on Sunday.

OC 163 Squadron, Flt Lt Les Vile said: "I’m delighted to see the success of these junior girls. It’s a great achievement to receive two Wing Blues in a month and a hopefully the start of a new era of sports successes for 163 Squadron.”

Image: Cdts Lammas & Sinfield with their Wing Blues

by Flt Lt Mandy Sinfield RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn - W&B Wg

21 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Tackling Down A Gold

Two cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have been representing Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at Junior Rugby this weekend.

Cdt Tom Ellis- Daish and Cdt Cpl Alex McIntyre represented Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at Junior Rugby at RAFC Cranwell. The team played well throughout the day winning in the tournament by points scored, earning Gold medals.

Col Alex McIntyre has also been selected to attend the regional trials and therefore have the chance to represent Central and East Region at the Corps Championships.

Cdt Tom Ellis-Daih said: “The team played extremely well to win in the tournament by only a few points. I am looking forward to hopefully playing next year”

CI Ian Griffiths added: “There is a long history of competitive sport within the Air Cadet Organisation. It helps to promote teamwork, organisation and pride, along with fitness.”

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn B&C Wg

20 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Running A Bit Further

Three cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have been representing Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at Cross Country.

Cdt Cpls Cameron Gibson and Alex McIntyre along with Cdt Sgt Oscar Waldron represented Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at Cross Country at RAFC Cranwell. They all put there all into the course and Cpl McIntyre came 5th in his category for Youth Boys.

Sgt Waldron said: “Everyone did really well, the course was quite challenging but we all made it through and were happy with where we came.”

Fg Off Christian Bates added: “Cadets jump at the chance to do sport in the Air Cadet Organisation. It is a great chance for them to keep fit, win medals and meet new friends, we are really proud of what the boys have achieved.”

Image: Cpl Gibson running in the Junior Boys Catergory

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

20 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Josh Represents the Wing

Cdt Josh Loosemore from 272 (Wisbech) Sqn recently represented Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing in Inter-Wing junior football held at RAFC Cranwell.

This is the first time that a cadet from Wisbech Squadron has represented the squadron at Wing level in the junior football competition for a number of years and earnt Josh a coveted 'Wing Blue'. In a hard fought campaign against the other 5 Wings Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire finally came 4th.

"Although I was nervous representing the Wing for the first time it was made easier by the other cadets on my team. It was a great experience and I would like to go again," said Cdt Loosemore.

Image: Cdt Josh Loosemore with his 'Wing Blue'.

by: CI Laura Nixon Sqn MCO 272 (Wisbech) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

18 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sporting Try-Outs & Cold Cross Country Running

March normally signals the beginning of spring but as the typical English weather defies us, this weekend saw winter temperatures engulf the country and snow showers made an appearance. This did not mean defeat for the Beds and Cambs Wing Cross country teams as they headed for RAFC Cranwell on Sunday 9th March to compete against other runners within the Central and East Region.

Cdt FS Jess Danells (17) from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn, was selected to represent the Wing after coming second in the selection race held in February. She said: "It was like running in arctic conditions, your toes and fingers were numb but we all gave it 110% to get the best possible placing."

Jess, a natural leader, was seen to be helping other runners around the course and motivating them along the way. This help was returned when Jess was poorly during the race but managed to continue to the finish line with the support and encouragement from those who she had assisted during the day. Jess finished in a fabulous fourth place in her age group and will go on to represent the Region at the Corps cross country race which is to be held in a couple of weeks.
 

Image: Cdt FS Jess Danells

by: CI Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

17 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

487's Wing Junior Football Team Success

At this year’s Central & East Region Junior Football Competition played at RAF Cranwell on Sunday 3rd March, the Wing repeated the achievement of last year and retained the trophy.

487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn had two cadets selected to play in the 2013 competition; Cdt Sgt Nick Johnson, playing in his normal striker’s role and Cdt Josh Green, slotting in at right back.

The competition comprised a 'Round Robin' tournament, where each Wing plays others in the Region in a series of twelve-minute games. With only 12 players available on the day, team manager Sqn Ldr Pat McCarroll had few options available for changing game plans in the course of the competition and little scope should there be any injuries.

The Warwickshire & Birmingham Team started the tournament in fine style with a 3 – 0 win over Herts & Bucks Wing. In all W & B Wing won Four and drew one of their games, without conceding a single goal all day and only Trent Wing managing to keep the Bears from the door. Wins over Beds & Cams, Norfolk & Suffolk and South & East Mids sealed the trophy for the Wing.

Following the competition the Regional Sports Officer, Sqn Ldr Kevin Bunn, awarded the team with the Cup and Winner’s Medal for all who had taken part. Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill, 487 Sqn, acting as bus driver, assistant coach, photographer and linesman on the day, said: “I’m delighted with the overall result and particularly proud of the 487 Sqn contribution to the Wing's success.”

Image: The Warks & B’ham Junior Football Team – Regional Champions

by: Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill RAF VR(T) OC 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn - W&B Wg

15 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sixth Year 'Running' Success

For the sixth year in succession South & East Midlands Wing fought off teams from the five other Wings to win the Central & East Region Cross-Country Championships,

In appalling conditions of snow, rain and freezing wind, the cadets of the Wing stormed home taking all the trophies for the female categories and were runners up in two of the three male classes.

The Wing won the hotly contested competition by an amazing fifty seven points, beating Warwick and Birmingham Wing into second place. “I couldn’t be more proud of every single cadet that turned up on Sunday and gave their all. I couldn’t have asked for any more. We put out a strong team and they didn’t let themselves or the Wing down. There was stiff competition from other wings on the day, but the end result went in our favour due to the hard work and dedication of every single cadet who represented the Wing. As always it goes to show, when we put our best forward and enter every team, we come out on top,” said Wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Lynda Waplington,

Five of the Wing’s runners in this competition will go forward to represent the Region in the Corps Championships

Image: The winning team with Sports Officer Flt Lt Lynda Waplington and Team Manager Sgt (ATC) Jade Brock

by: Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) Wing MCO SEM Wg

14 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Bronze for Oakley Girls.

On Sunday two cadets from 2462 (Oakley) Sqn represented Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing competed in the Inter Wing Cross Country competition at RAF College Cranwell.

Joining other cadets from the Wing in the Junior Girls, Cdts Emily Spencer and Indie Jaques brought home Bronze medals after the team achieved 3rd place. Well done!

Image: Cdts Emily Spencer and Indie Jaques

by: Plt Off Steve Tyrrell RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 2462 (Oakley) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

14 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Arden's First Rugby Wing Reps

Two of 2286 (Arden) Sqn's cadets have been picked to play rugby for Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing.

Cdts Karl Weston and Adam Sadler will be travelling to RAFC Cranwell on Sunday. These are the first wing representatives on squadron for some years so everyone is very excited. CI Dave Wheatley, the squadron's Sports Officer, said: “It’s brilliant they have been picked, and we wish them and the wing good luck.”

Image: CI Dave Wheatley with Cdts Karl Weston and Adam Sadler

by: Fg Off Julie Seymour RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 2286 (Arden) Sqn - W&B Wg

13 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Corps Sporting Fixtures

Despite temperatures only just above freezing the ATC's Soccer and Hockey teams gathered at RAF Cosford on 23 Feb for their representative matches to allow them to earn their Corps Blue awards.

The Hockey team was to play an 'ATC Veterans' side who were relying on 'old age and treachery' to beat the 'youth and skill' of the current cadets. The score remained close for much of the game but in the second half the cadets edged a head winning 6-3. Meanwhile the ATC's Soccer players were competing against a team from the Cosford-based No1 Radio School. This was another game that saw the score line remain close but the cadets eventually came out on top winning 4-3.

For the second year, the Hockey team's captain was Cdt Cpl Alice MacLoughlin from 864 (Watton) Sqn. She said: "I was happy as we have not won for ages! The team was good and everyone played really well.” Fg Off Kat Rattle who captained the Corps Veteran's side said: "It was a fantastic match and a great chance to get the staff playing hockey, some who had not played for quite a few years. This is something we hope to continue and get more hockey playing staff involved. Bring on next year!"

Soccer Captain, Cdt Cpl Sean Kinsella (1966 (Wavertree) Sqn) said: "I was very proud to captain the team, it was a good team and I was happy to win this year." West Mercian Wing's Sqn Ldr John Feast who helps with the soccer selection and training added: "In short, an excellent performance. The match was played in a fantastic spirit and with so many players under 16 things bode well for future years."

The Hockey team's "players' player" (chosen by the Veterans' team was Joy Wakeling from 1211 (Swadlincote) Sqn
The Hockey veteran's player's player (chosen by the cadets) was Sgt Savanna Palmer 491 (City of Birmingham) Sqn.
The veterans' player's player was Tony Feeney 1966 (Wavetree) Sqn.
The Soccer team's man of the match chosen by No 1 Radio School was Cdt Cpl Reece Ibbotson from 103 (Doncaster) Sqn.

Alex Maddison the ATC Sports Officer at HQAC said: "Both ATC Corps teams demonstrated incredible skill and maturity. Given that the players met for the first time the day before their match, they showed a great team spirit and work ethic resulting in well deserved victories."

Image: 1. Hockey, 1032 (Yeovil) Sqn's Cdt FS Zoe Wilson-Challen challenges Fg Off Kat Rattle whilst team captain, Cdt Cpl Alice MacLoughlin (L) watches on. 2. Football; Cdt Sgt Yaya Hanyana from 290 (Weston-super-Mare) Sqn, Devon and Somerset Wing, defends against players from No1 Radio School.

by: Sqn Ldr Philip Jones RAF VR(T) ACO Photographer South for Central & East Regn
 

12 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sporting Success For Thurston

Three cadets from 863 (Thurston) Sqn have represented the squadron and Norfolk and Suffolk Wing at sports this month.

Cdt Cpl Ben Last and Cdt Bronwyn Jacobs attended the inter-squadron cross country trials at RAF Barnham at the beginning of March, both coming first in their age groups and were selected to represent Norfolk and Suffolk Wing at RAF Cranwell last weekend.

At these trials, Cdt Cpl Last came 16th in his group, despite two falls and a knee injury, and Cdt Jacobs came second in her group. Cdt Jacobs will now go on to represent the Central and East Region in the inter-region trials.

Back at the Squadron following her success, she said: “I am happy with my result and am looking forward to the next round.” Cdt Samantha Miles was also selected to represent Norfolk and Suffolk Wing in the Hockey trials, in which the team won a Gold medal in the Junior Girls category.

by: CI Claire Marks Sqn MCO 863 (Thurston) Sqn - N&S Wg

11 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Arctic Cross Country at Ice Station Zebra!
(Or Inter Wing Cross Country at Cranwell)

Three cadets from 1406 (Spalding) Sqn battled bitterly cold conditions at the Inter Wing X Country event held at RAFC Cranwell on Sunday. Cdts Emily Brand, Emily Ransome and Cdt Cpl Steven Barnett were selected to represent Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing. Not only did they have to do battle with the elements, sleet, snow and a biting wind, but also the best Cross country runners from across the Central and East Region from the remaining five Wings.

Cdts Emily Brand and Emily Ransome were both in the Junior Girls event. Not daunted by the conditions, the elements or the opposition, the young cadets who have been at the squadron less than a year, called upon every last ounce of energy, courage and determination to help the Wing team come a creditable and well-earned 3rd place and Bronze medals for all. To add to her medal haul, Emily Brand called upon the crowds support, and used every last piece of energy and effort to come in as 3rd Individual, and another Bronze for those efforts, and automatic selection for the Regional team.

Emily Brand can now look forward to representing the Region at the Inter region event, again to be held at Cranwell, this time against the best Cross Country runners from the Air Cadet Organisation from across the UK.

Cdt Cpl Steven Barnett represented the Wing at Senior Boys event, in what is likely to be his last event before he leaves the Squadron to join the RAF later this month. The squadron wishes him well, and hope that he enjoys his Air Force Career as much as he has his Air Cadet Career.

Image: Cdt Emily Ransome with Wing Blue and certificate, Cdt Emily Brand and Cdt Cpl Steven Barnett

by: WO (ATC) Chris Bone 1406 (Spalding) Sqn - B&C Wg

11 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Action Alex Represents The Wing

Last weekend a cadet from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn spent an eventful day at RAFC Cranwell representing Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at Junior Football.

Cdt Cpl Alex Jenvey represented Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at Football. The team played well throughout the day finishing fourth in the tournament.

Cpl Jenvey said: “The team played extremely well to gain second place in the tournament, although of course we are disappointed not to win gold.”

Fg Off Christian Bates added: “There is a long history of competitive sport within the Air Cadet Organisation. It helps to promote teamwork, organisation and pride, along with fitness.”

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

07 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Watton's Sports Success

This past weekend saw 864 (Watton) Sqn cadets competing in sports at several levels and Cdt Cpl Alice Macloughlin had been selected to play hockey for the Corps team after trialling for the Wing and Region teams and being picked to represent both as team captain.

Alice was selected to captain the Corps team representing the Air cadets at National Level, no mean achievement when you consider there are around 35000 cadets in the ATC. Alice travelled to RAF Cosford and played against the ATC Veterans. The Corps team led by Alice played very well and managed to secure a convincing 6-3 victory, walking away with the Winner’s trophy. Playing at this level also entitled Cpl Macloughlin to a Corps Blue.

The Corps Hockey Coach and selector Flt Lt Worsnop said: “Your cadet clearly had a great tournament and I congratulate her for her exemplary performance. She is a credit to herself, her squadron and her wing.  Alice captained the team and held it all together well and was a good role model. Please pass on my congratulations on her Corps Blue.”

Cpl Macloughlin Said: “As a whole considering we had never played together as a team before, we played brilliantly together. Our passing and team tactics were good, the only hard part was learning everyone’s names.”

Throughout 2012 and 2013 Cpl Macloughlin has represented the Corps in hockey twice, Regional athletics once and was picked for the regional netball team. This weekend’s events adds another feather in the cap for Cpl Macloughlin who will no doubt go onto bigger things in the sporting world.

Image: Cdt Cpl Alice Macloughlin

by: CI Daniel Fishlock Sqn MCO 864 (Watton) Sqn - N&S Wg

04 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cross Country Running

On Sunday cadets from 864 (Watton) Sqn took part in the wing cross country event fielding three teams junior girls, senior girls and junior men’s and also individual runners. Competing against over 150 other cadets from across the wing, the cadets ran a three mile course around RAF Barnham.

In the team events the junior girls won overall, as did the Senior Girls and the junior men came second, earning the squadron an overall second place, losing out by only 3 points.

In the individual races three cadets from Watton were selected to run for the wing, two in the junior girl’s category Cdts Anscombe & Cox who finished 2nd & 5th respectively and in the senior Girls Cdt FS Steven who finished fifth.

Cdt Cox said: “I'm so pleased that I have been picked for the wing cross country team, I’m really pleased with my result today, all the cadets who ran today have done really well.”
 

Image The Cross Country Girls

by: CI Daniel Fishlock Sqn MCO 864 (Watton) Sqn - N&S Wg

04 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Muddy Good Show

This years Cross Country Championships were moved from their usual November spot to the new February date to allow the Wing Sports Officer to pick a team for the Regional Championships, 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn had taken eleven competitors in the various classes, managing to enter full teams in most categories.

Due to the intemperate climatic conditions on the day, the move was universally unpopular with all who took part, the organisers, the course marshals, Sqn supporters, but most of all the competitors. The recently melted snowfall and a period of rain had turned the fields into a muddy quagmire. The clinging earth weighed down the runners, making it a very tiring experience. In addition it was a very cold day and the rain fell constantly throughout, making it the worst conditions in many a year. But, through adversity comes glory.

The first taste of success came when Cdt Ebony Evans, in her first representation for the squadron since her recent enrolment, finished third in the Senior Girls race. She has been selected to represent the wing in the forthcoming Regional event. Later in the day, the older members of the squadron won the Junior Mens race, emulating the success of 2011. Cdt FS Andrew Nye, Cdt Cpls Matt Bell and Ryan Borhara were the likely lads on the day.

After the event came the awarding of trophies and medals by Wg Cdr Stuart Iles. Cdt Evans collected her Bronze Medal, hopefully, the first of many accolades in her Cadet career. Cpl Bell picked up the Cup for the team in the Junior Mens event.

Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill OC 487 Sqn commented: “We have for many years entered the male competitions in good numbers; this year was particularly pleasing in that for the first time in some years, we were able to enter full teams in both the female age groups. The new cadets have shown themselves willing to give things a try, this spirit, augers well for the squadron in the next few years.”

Image: The 487 Sqn Team: Cdt FS Nye, Cdt Green, Cpl Bell, Cdt Hughes, Cpls Borhara, Small, Edmonds, Cdts Evans,  Cusack, Cdt Sgt Johnson, Cdt Baigent
 

by: Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill RAF VR(T) OC 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

03 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Running Success!

Sunday 17th February saw six cadets from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn competing against other cadets from the area to gain a prestigious place on the Wing Cross Country teams.

Held at Hinchinbrooke School, cadets from Beds and Cambs Wing ran a two mile course across the neighbouring country park, through woods, puddles and mud! The sun was shining on all of the runners but they were presented with various running conditions underfoot, such as hard paths, grass, sodden mud and various dogs and their owners – great, realistic cross country elements!

Cdt FS Jess Danells (16) came second in the Senior Girls category taking home a silver medal from the competition. She said: "It was a great course, we all ran home covered in mud but extremely pleased with ourselves for completing the event. To have made it through to the next round is a great achievement."

Cdt FS George Hodgkin (18) came home in fourth place in the Senior Boys competition and secured the last available place in the Beds and Cambs Wing team. They will compete against other squadrons in the Central and East Region cross country tournament to be held at RAFC Cranwell on 10th March.

With Jess and George securing their places, the Senior Girls team, which consisted of Jess, Cdt Darcy Russell (16) and Cdt Cpl Megan Brown (16), earned enough points to come second overall in the Senior Girls Team Competition.

by: CI Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg

02 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Semi Final Glory

As this year’s Wing Football competition advanced, the games have got harder. 487(Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn had repeated their achievement of 2010/11 by reaching the Semi-Finals, where they narrowly lost to an extra time penalty. This year they hoped to go one stage further and make the Final Tie at RAF Cosford in April.

The draw had the Kingstanding Squadron tied against 29F of Rugby, who also have had a good string of results to arrive at the Semi’s. Although from Rugby they had a decent set of Soccer players on their books and looked a likely team in the pre-match warm up to upset the 487 rhythm.

The game was played on Sunday 24th February and although bright enough, the weather was bitterly cold, with a biting wind. There were a few snow flurries prior to kick-off, but both sides were keen to play the game with the prospect of the Final to come. A large crowd had gathered at the Castle Vale Stadium, unfortunately the tie was played on Pitch Nr four. In addition to the 29F contingent of fans, there were a few hardy souls in support of the 487 lads, braving the inclement conditions.

Despite the possession, the Kingstanding side had not created any clear cut chances, until in the 9th minute a vicious shot from the edge of the penalty box was inexplicably handled on the line by a 29F outfield player, a penalty kick had been awarded to 487, the Ref raised the red card and the fickle finger of fate pointed in the direction of the sidelines. The 487 Skipper, FS Kenny Morris, took the ball and the keeper anticipating the speed and direction of the spot-kick got to the ball. Unfortunately for him it had enough pace and squirmed under his body into the net, allowing the 487 crowd to breathe again. 1:0

The second goal came in this period of indecision, in the 21st minute, a high hopeful cross from the left, looking a safe catch for the keeper, was allowed to bounce over his head into the 6 yard box. Captain Kenny Morris anticipating the mistake charged in from the inside right position and slotted home the unattended object. 2:0. The half time team talk centred on maintaining the pressure and to keep working to ensure that an early goal was not conceded letting 29F back into the game.

As expected the second half began furiously, 29F trying hard to notch a goal to give them something to fight for. But it was not until the 55th minute that the 29F defence was breached for a third time, 3:0. The last 15 minutes of the game saw 487 holding what they had, 29F at this stage offering little to alter the score line. On the final whistle the 29F team were gracious in defeat and wished the Kingstanding side the best of luck in the Final.

After a few choruses of “Wembley Wembley” and some congratulatory words, the panel unanimously voted Cdt Cpl Ryan Daly as Man of the Match. He said: “Although I’m very pleased to be named man of the match, I must praise the whole of the back four who stood square and restricted opportunities for 29F to score. I’m particularly pleased we have kept a clean sheet, in recent games we’ve lapsed a few times and put pressure on ourselves. The whole squadron, not just the team will be very proud to step onto the pitch at RAF Cosford in the Final.”

Image by Sgt (ATC) Nicky Gallivan: The 487 Team Back; CI Reynolds, Pearse, Johnson, Small, Bell, Holsey, Harris, Nayyar, Bhakta, Flt Lt O’Neill. Front; Brookes, Shepherd, Fahey, Morris (Capt), Green, Farr, Daly.

by: Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill RAF VR(T) OC 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn W&B Wg
 

01 Mar 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Beating Cardiac Hill

With the Regional Cross Country fast approaching Trent Wing recently held its own event at RAFC Cranwell. Cdt Cpl Alex Sellers of 2160 (Sleaford) Sqn retells her experience of the event.

Being cold, tired and covered in mud didn’t stop Cdt Cpl Davies, Cdt Davies and me smiling as we marched up to receive our medals and trophy at Trent Wing Cross Country on the 10th February.

Typical British weather meant that we were running in the bitter cold, and the rain and other races combined, meant the three mile course was extremely muddy and slippery, so as we stood on the start line, moral did not appear to be very high.

Despite the unfavourable conditions and of course the dreaded 'Cardiac Hill' half way around the course, the first three girls from 2160 arrived back in one piece, bringing along high positions with us; myself in 4th place, Cpl Davies in 6th and Cdt Davies in 7th. Our senior girls team had managed to land a score of 17 points, a score that we were hoping would help our squadron with the overall ranking.

Although nobody from Sleaford Squadron had achieved a medal in the individual rankings, we pulled together amazingly as a group; three of our teams came home with medals, and the senior girls’ team managed to bring a trophy back as well. Having Sleaford announced as being in the overall 3rd place concluded the event on a definite high.

It’s an amazing sense of achievement even just to represent the squadron, but coming back with results as fantastic as the ones that we got makes it even more worthwhile. It’s time to focus on the Region now, and if everyone performs at the level that was shown at wing, there are high hopes for Trent Wing coming out on top!

Image: The Sleaford team

by: Cdt Cpl Alex Sellers Sqn MCO Team 2160 (Sleaford) Sqn - Trent Wg
 

28 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Bury Crowned Cross Country Champions

Cadets from 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn were crowned Norfolk and Suffolk Cross Country Champions at the annual area event at Barnham Camp, near Thetford.

A team of 15 from Bury joined over 150 cadets at Barnham to compete in the championship which is held every year, with Bury last winning the trophy in 2007.

The bitter cold morning saw individual successes for Cdts Victoria Wain and Madeline Byford finishing 4th and 8th, respectively. Cdt Wain’s success will now see her go on to represent Norfolk and Suffolk Wing at the Central and East Region event. The male category witnessed a similar story with the Junior Boys finishing second and the Senior Men winning their category.

The squadron trophy cabinet continues to grow, with the Cross Country trophy joining a variety of victories throughout the year throughout the activities offered by the Air Training Corps.

Sports Officer CI Matt Drewry said: "I was very pleased to take the largest team out of all the Squadrons within the Wing and the cadets can be very proud of themselves for coming away with so many medals and the overall champions. I now wish that I hadn’t promised the cadets a McDonalds if they won!"

Image: Norfolk and Suffolk Cross Country Champions

by: CI Dan Garlick Sqn MCO 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn - N&S Wg
 

26 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Wing's Cross Country

It was a beautiful sunny day for the cadets from Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing ATC to take part in the Cross Country Championships, held recently at Hinchingbrooke School and Country Park.

However, the cadets had to battle through mud, some losing trainers during the event, but still came away smiling with some brilliant results.

Individual results Gold winners :-
Junior Boys - Cdt Jobblin 207 (Cranfield) Sqn
Youths – Cpl McIntyre 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn
Senior Boys – Sgt Waldron – 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn
Junior Girls – Cdt Brand 1406 (Spalding) Sqn
Senior Girls – Cdt Simmons 1985 (Flitwick) Sqn

Team results:-
Junior Boys - 73 (Huntingdon) Sqn
Youths – 134 (Bedford) Sqn
Senior Boys – 1406 (Spalding) Sqn
Overall Boys – 1406 (Spalding) Sqn
Junior Girls – 207 (Cranfield) Sqn
Senior Girls 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn

Medals and Trophies were presented by OC Beds & Cambs Wing, Wg Cdr Paul Bower. All cadets are to be congratulated on their participation.

Image by Flt Lt Andy Mason: Runners at the start

by: Flt Lt Margaret Bell RAF VR(T) Wing MCO - B&C Wg

24 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cross-Country Running at Wing

Sunday saw a great success for 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn as they ran from the school grounds of Hinchinbrook School, through challenging terrain of Hinchinbrook County Park, to the finishing line back on the school grounds, during this year’s Cambridgeshire Wing Cross-Country competition.

Hundreds of cadets from all over Cambridgeshire came and participated in the Cross-Country, with hopes of winning an award but many just to represent their squadrons.

At the end of the day all the cadets gathered in the School Gym for the award presentation. Cdt FS Katherine Hanley, Cdt Sgt Bryony Weavers, and Cdt Cpl Kimberley Hughes saw Bassingbourn Squadron win the Senior Girls (over 16) Trophy.

Image: Bassingbourn's Senior Girls Team being presented with the Trophy by OC Wing, Wg Cdr Paul Bower

by: CI Sam Scowen Sqn MCO 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn - B&C Wg

22 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Wisbech Run at Wing

What better that to go for jog in the countryside on a bright Sunday morning - and that's just what 5 cadets from 272 (Wisbech) Sqn did recently as they took part in the annual inter-squadron cross country event.

The cadets competed against 29 other squadrons around a 3km course set out in the picturesque Hinchingbrooke Country Park. It was a challenging course with some particularly muddy sections through the wooded areas. Cadets being cadets rose to the challenge and ploughed their way through it all despite a few falls and the inevitable mud bath.

Competing for 272 were Cdt Cpls Ross Chadney and Josh Garner with cdts John Goude, Ryan Newman and Benjamin Ayling. Taking part for the first time they all managed respectable mid field places.

Cpl Ross Chadney remarked: "It was a great course with plenty to look at as you ran around but take your eyes off the route in the woods for too long and you can end up in all sorts of mess."

Image: Cdt J Goude and Cdt Cpl J Garner.

by: CI Laura Nixon Sqn MCO 272 (Wisbech) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

21 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Bury Cadets Sportivate

Cadets from 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn have been offered the chance to participate in five touch-rugby sessions through the Sportivate scheme funded by Sport England.

Ten cadets will have the opportunity to take part in five training sessions held at Bury Rugby Club ran by club coach Ben Scully. Thirteen Air Cadet squadrons from throughout Norfolk and Suffolk are participating in the venture, with the aim of competing in an area competition to be held at Diss Rugby Club in April. Bury shall take ten players to the competition, fielding seven at a time.

The aim of the programme is to create a link between the cadets and local sports clubs in the Bury area.

301 Squadron Sports Officer, Matt Drewry, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for our cadets to participate and try different sports which are offered in the area. We would like to thank both Sportivate and Bury RFC and hopefully we can add the Air Cadet Sportivate Cup to our trophy cabinet."

by: CI Dan Garlick Sqn MCO 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn - N&S Wg

19 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Photo Finish!

A team of 13 cadets from 1406 (Spalding) Sqn took part in the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing cross country competition at Hinchinbrook Country Park recently.
 

Cdt Emily Brand won gold for the individual junior girl’s category with Cdt Emily Ransome coming second and gaining a silver medal! The Senior boys’ team consisting of Cdt Cpls Andrew Oxby, Steve Barnett and Nick Fletcher won further Gold for coming first in the team element.

To add to the success of the day the Trophy for the combined overall Boys event also went to 1406 (Spalding) Sqn. Cpl Nick Fletcher commented: “It was a great day out with the team and even better that we were able to come away with such a range of silverware.”

by: Cdt Maria Lockie Sqn MCO Team 1406 (Spalding) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

19 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sports Trials Success'

Cadets from 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn enjoyed success at the recent Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing hockey and football team trials.

The weather was kind and the trials took place on a gloriously sunny Sunday afternoon, although with it being February there was still a nip in the air. Seven Kingstanding cadets travelled to Wyndley Leisure Centre in Sutton Coldfield for the opportunity to represent their Wing in team sports. Three tried out for Junior Girls Hockey, a further three tried out for Open Age Boys Hockey with the final cadet trying out for Junior Boys Football.

There was success in the Open Age Boys Hockey as Cdt FS Andrew Nye was selected for the team. FS Nye was reflective on his success: “There was a good turn out today so I am very pleased to have been selected. Sqn Ldr McCarroll told me that my experience from previous years in the team would be of value this year, I hope to prove him right.”

487 also enjoyed success in the Junior Boys Football with Cdt Thomas Farr making the reserves list. An impressive achievement as competition for places in this team is always fierce, especially as this is Cdt Farr’s first attempt at making the team.

A big well done and thank you to all the cadets who turned up and gave it a go; this embodies the spirit of 487 Sqn!

by: Sgt (ATC) Nicky Gallivan Sqn MCO 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn - W&B Wg

18 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Running For Victory
 

A team of fifteen cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have continued their winning start of the year at the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing Cross Country championships held at Hinchingbrooke Country Park.

The cadets won a total of nine medals of which two were gold and were further rewarded by coming second in the trophy for the team event in the Youth Boys competition. Individual medals were won by Cdt Cpl Alex McIntyre and Cdt Sgt Oscar Waldron who surged home first in the Youth Boys and Senior Boys categories whilst Cdt Cpl Cameron Gibson, Cdts Bella Shallcross and Lily Grimshaw came third in their respective categories; Junior Boys, Senior Girls and Junior Girls.

Other notable performances were Cdt Sgt Matt Richards coming in the top 10 of the Senior Boys and Cdt Rory Godwin coming in the top 15 of the Youth Boys.

Cpl Alex McIntyre said: “The cadets representing the squadron ran with pride and were duly rewarded with medals and trophies. The Squadron so far this year has been doing very well at sports and we hope this continues.”  CWO Jess Bradshaw added: “It was really good to see so many cadets willing to represent the Squadron at Cross Country and achieving such an excellent result.”

A selection of cadets will now go forward to represent Bedfordshire and Cambridge Wing at RAF College Cranwell.

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

18 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sandy's Wing Cross Country

On Sunday 17th February, cadets from 22 (Sandy) Sqn took part in the Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing Cross-Country competition held at Hinchinbrook School, Cambridgeshire.

The course started from the school grounds, taking the cadets out into Hinchinbrook County Park, running through some challenging terrain, and around some of the picturesque lakes and paths in the park, before reaching the finish line back on the school grounds. The day ended with a parade in the School Gym, in order to hand out medals and trophies for each age group.

Cdt Conner Kilby (14) said: “The course was quite an enjoyable run through the park, despite some mud, and the weather really helped make it a good day. The day was also a great chance to meet other cadets from across the area.”

The weekend prior to cross country, cadets also took part in hockey, and junior boys rugby trials, also held at Hinchinbrook School. Well done to Cdts Callan Whitbread (15) and Jakub Grabowski (15), who were both selected to play on the wing Junior Boys Rugby team at RAF Cranwell in March.

Cdt Whitbread commented: “I was really surprised to find out that I made the wing team, and it’s great that I will go on to represent the wing next month.”

by: CI Jeffrey Henshaw Sqn MCO 22 (Sandy) Sqn - B&C Wg

18 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Run Corby! Run!

On Sunday 10th February seventeen cadets from 422 (Corby) Sqn braved the freezing cold temperature and rain to take part in South and East Midlands Wing’s Annual Cross Country event at RAF Wittering.

Arriving early the cadets were keen to get off the coach and start warming up and compete against the 28 other Squadrons there on the day.

The course of 3.5 miles took many of the cadets by surprise as this would be the first time they had competed in this event. However, they approached the event with great determination, even supporting their neighbours 1101 (Kettering and District) Sqn, along the way and all teams that took part successfully completed the course.

Plt Off Kevin Ritchie said: “I am very proud of the effort, determination and camaraderie the squadron displayed on the day despite the terrible weather. The squadron and I were also thrilled to hear we had placed 13th overall; a huge improvement on last year’s result.”

by: Plt Off Kevin Ritchie RAF VR(T) 422 (Corby) Sqn - SEM Wg

15 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Derby Take The Spoils. Again

In the wet and cold of a Wittering February morning, 126 (City of Derby) Sqn snatched the South & East Midlands Wing’s Overall Cross Country trophy. Again!

This is the third successive occasion on which the Derby Cadets have lifted this hard fought trophy. On this occasion the squadron could only manage one outright category win in their quest for victory, but scored well in the other four categories. Four other squadrons shared the other categories.

Possibly proving that the cold and wet suits the Northern end of the Wing, 348 (Ilkeston) Sqn took a commendable second place with Nottingham’s 209 (West Bridgford) Sqn coming a valiant third.

Officer Commanding the Derby Squadron, Sqn Ldr Ian Marshall said: “I was very pleased with the performance of the cadets running in poor weather conditions. We had been unable to train due to snow the weeks before and I was very pleased with the way the cadets put in a maximum effort to achieve the result they did.”

Officer Commanding South & East Midlands, Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson was full of praise and admiration for the cadets who competed in such awful conditions and thanked the supporting staff for their endurance.

The winning cadets from each category will go on to compete in the Inter Wing Competition with the hope of the wing retaining the trophy it has won on several occasions.

by: Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) Wing MCO SEM Wg

15 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sporting Try-Outs

Sunday 10th February saw six cadets from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn competing against other cadets from the area to gain a prestigious place on the Wing Hockey and Rugby teams.

Held at Hinchinbrooke School, cadets from Beds and Cambs Wing braved the elements and donned mouth guards and shin pads to show the selection team that they would be good enough to make the team. Out of the six cadets from 115 Squadron, there were three under sixteens trying out for the junior rugby team and three cadets for the Hockey team.

After playing several games in freezing rain, all three cadets in the Rugby trials were selected and will compete against other regions on 17th March. Cadets Liddle, Cook and Stanford all reached the required standards.

Cdt Cook was extremely pleased to have made the grade. He said: "It was great rugby conditions on Sunday, cold, wet and very muddy. We all played our best and are happy to have made the team – roll on the 17th March when we compete at the next level."

Meanwhile on the Hockey pitch, Cdt FS George Hodgkin and Cdt Van De Shans were battling against other male cadets to be selected. Unfortunately, they were pipped at the post to gain selection into the team this year. However, CWO Callum Rigby, who plays county level hockey, was selected to coach the wing teams.

Callum Rigby, who coached the individuals before the trials said: "I was impressed with the standards of all of the players who attended today, however, there are only so many places on the team and to be in with a winning chance, we have to look at those individuals who will work together and hopefully form the winning team."

The hockey team will go on to play the next round in the competition which will be held on 24th March at RAF College Cranwell.

by: CI Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg

15 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

209 Sqn Running Like It’s 1999

Two cadets from 209 (West Bridgford) Sqn competing in the South and East Midlands Wing Cross Country event finished first and second in their group to help 209 Sqn achieve it’s best sporting result since 1999.

Cdts Suzannah Horn and Rosie Dawson completed the 3 mile course at RAF Wittering in freezing cold rain to come first and second in the 13-14 year old girls category. Cdts Mollie Dawson and Laura Toplass were also in the team and finished strongly to help the team come first in the Girls Category. Their contribution significantly helped 209 Sqn to come second in the overall competition between the 29 Squadrons in the South and East Midlands Wing.

209s Sports Officer Sgt (ATC) Jade Brock said: “I was so proud of the achievement of the whole squadron. I was literally jumping with excitement when I heard the Girls team had come first.”

Flt Lt Steve Richards, Commanding Officer of 209 said: “All the cadets that represented 209 Sqn at Wing Cross Country have done themselves proud. Well done the Girls team for 1st place and an again excellent result, 2nd in the Wing overall one of 209s best results since 1999.”

Image: Cdts Laura Toplass, Rosie Wildman, Suzanne Horn and Mollie Dawson with the trophy for 1st Place in the Girls Category at Cross Country.

by: Sgt (ATC) Richard Vincett Sqn MCO 209 (West Bridgford) Sqn - SEM Wg

14 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

138 Wing It At Cross Country

Cadets from 138 (1st Nottingham) Sqn represented their squadron with distinction at the Wing Cross country to win silverware at RAF Wittering on Sunday after a ten year wait.

On the coldest of winter mornings, eight brave cadets from 138 squadron all donned their sports kits to do battle with the other cadets from the wing. 138 squadron was up against some serious competition from other squadrons from South and East Midlands Wing.

Cdt Louis Pfister did extremely well and took second place in the boy’s race. The day was rounded off with a ceremony and trophies being awarded by the OC Wing, Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson, to all the successful squadrons and individuals.

Cdt Cpl Colin Huthwaite quoted after the event: “I'm honoured to be here, it’s great to be bringing back the trophy for the first time in my cadet career. It was worth braving the freezing conditions.” Cdt Pfister said: “Despite the winter conditions we were all looking forward to the race. The competition was fierce, We all at 138 pulled together as a team and put in 100% effort to secure the win.“ The contestants who took part were met with applause back at the squadron by other cadets from 138

Image: Front Row: Cdt FS Aaron Rawson ,Cdts David Makoti & Louis Pfister, Cpl Colin Huthwaite; Rear Row: Cdts Connall Glover & Alexander Kieme, Cdt Sgts Conrad Goetzee & Lauren Priest.

by: CI Brian Layton Sqn MCO 138 (1st Nottingham) Sqn - SEM Wg
 

13 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

A Successful Sports Sunday

Cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have attended the recently Wing Junior Rugby and Boys Open Hockey trials.

Cadets gathered at Hinchingbrooke School in Huntington to take part in trials for junior rugby and open hockey. This was the first boys event of 2013 and so everyone was keen to be picked for the teams

After a few hours of trials for the junior rugby Cdt Cpl Alex McIntyre was picked for the team for a second year running and hopes to carry on the success he had last year of getting through to represent the Region. Cdt Tom Ellis-Daish was picked as a reserve for the team and will be ready on standby when they need him.

After the rugby trials had finished it was time for the open hockey trials and once again Cdt Cpl Alex McIntyre was picked to represent the Wing making it two selections to represent the Wing in one day.

Cpl McIntyre said: “I was pleased to get through a very tough morning of trials and will be proud to represent my squadron and Wing in the upcoming junior rugby and open hockey tournaments”

Fg Off Christian Bates added: “The cadets worked very hard to achieve what they did on the day. The boys were put through rigorous trials they should all be proud of their achievements.”
 

Image: Cdt Cpl Alex McIntyre

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn B&C Wg
 

13 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

A Wet Wing Cross Country!

On Sunday the 10th February several Cadets from 2028 (Southam) Sqn accompanied by CI Carroll Dyer braved a very wet and cold day to take part in the Wing Cross Country Championships at Tudor Grange Leisure Centre in Solihull.

The conditions were typical for Cross Country, rain and muddy for most of the route which was challenging for everyone who took part. Seven cadets from 2028 Squadron volunteered to take part and gave everything they could but on this occasion weren’t able to gain a winning place.

CI Dyer commented: "They all did fantastic today. The weather was horrendous the course was like Glastonbury! The cadets did well to get round in one piece."

Flt Lt Daryll Moreton, CO of 2028 Squadron, on hearing the news remarked: "Cross Country was never my thing at School, you either like it or hate it, so my cadets did really well to volunteer for what turned out to be really awful conditions."

Image: Cdt Sam Barley Morey

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

12 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

My Corps Netball Experience

Cdt FS Hazel Mann of 2028 (Southam) Sqn

On Monday 4th February, I received a message from the Corps Sports Officer saying I had been called up for the Corps netball team. I was ecstatic and that Friday, travelled up to RAF Cosford to stay the night before the tournament on the following day.

Nine girls made up the Corps team and we all had great fun on the Friday evening getting to know one and other. The Saturday morning was an early start, breakfast and then a training session with the Corps Vets. a team made up of staff within the ATC. The session gave us all new tips and tricks and enabled us to warm up and play together as a team before the tournament.

After lunch, we warmed up and met the competition - three local teams and the Corps vets. The games were twenty minutes long and our first was against the Barr Beacons, unfortunately the ATC team lost to an incredible and solid side. Our second game was against AMEC ladies, another team from the area, the ATC team were down by four goals at the end of the first half however, turned it around to win the match by four goals!

Our third match, against the Yendys was another tough game that we unfortunately didn't win, but the opposition were a young, speedy, close team and they commented on how good we were only having played together for a few hours! The Corps team's final match was against the Corps Vets, who we really wanted to beat! But knew after the mornings training session that it was unlikely! Both teams played well but the Vets came out on top.

The Corps Vets were the defending champions; however, they lost to Barr Beacons and came second, the ATC team finished fourth in front of AMEC ladies.

Once the games had finished, the Corps Sports Officer, Alex Maddison, presented Barr Beacons with the ATC Challenge Shield and also the Corps team with their Corps blues. We then all went to Finnigans on base for a buffet. I really enjoyed playing for the Corps netball team, it was a once in a lifetime experience and a true honour. Hopefully I will be back there next year and will make even more new friends!

Image: Cdt FS Mann is pictured on the front row second from the left.

by: Cdt FS Hazel Mann 2028 (Southam) Sqn - W&B Wg

12 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Go Cross Country

On Sunday a team of well-trained athletes from 1360 (Stapleford and Sandiacre) Sqn woke up early and raring to go. They began the morning by travelling down to RAF Wittering (Peterborough) where they took part in the Cross Country Competition.

The cadets were up against others from different squadrons around the Wing so the pressure was on. The cross country distance that all cadets ran was 3.5 miles and the squadron had some very impressive results from certain runners in the team. Cdt FS Osbiston (17) from the youth’s category was placed a credible 3rd along with Cdt Joel Terry (15) who came sprinting behind in 4th place. Cdt Cpl Shannon Conway (14) was the squadron’s fastest girl coming 3rd in the Junior Girls category.

These three successful runners have made it into the Regional Competition which will be taking place in the next month. We wish them the best of luck! With all the running over all squadrons formed up ready for the overall scores to be announced, it was great to hear that 1360 Squadron came 2nd in the junior girl’s category out of 29 competing squadrons that day.

FS Osbiston said: “I really enjoy cross country as my strong sport is running, I’m proud of all the cadets that took part that day as they put all their best efforts in. I’m now looking forward to competing in the Regional competition.”

Flt Lt Gareth Fowler, Officer Commanding 1360 Sqn, said: “I am so proud of all the cadets that ran on the day, they put in a huge effort. The Unit is growing week by week; I am looking forward to the future and 1360 becoming a force to be reckoned with.”

by: Flt Lt Gareth Fowler RAF VR(T) OC 1360 (Stapleford and Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg

11 Feb 2013                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Into the Semi-Finals of Wing Football

487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn progressed into the Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing Football semi-final on Sunday. A 5 - 1 win over 2504 (Archbishop Grimshaw) Sqn saw the Royal Blues of Kingstanding through to their second semi in three years.

The game was played on the Castle Vale Estate, where seventy years before, Spitfires built at the nearby Castle Bromwich factory were roiled across the road to make their maiden flights. The day was bright and sunny, following the recent rains, ideal conditions for a competitive quarter final.

The early stages of the game followed 487’s recent experiences of dominating early play without putting much pressure on the opposing keeper, until the tenth minute when following a piece of neat 487 forward interplay, Kurte Harris running from midfield received a pass allowing him to place a beautiful chip over the advancing goalkeeper, the ball hit the back of the net, rolled down and nestled in the corner, 1-0. Four minutes later 487 went two up, the goal coming from Nick Johnson, the 4-goal hero of the previous round. 2-0.

The demons that haunted the 487 side from the previous game versus 8F Sqn returned, and whether, through over complacency or loss of concentration, allowed 2504 to pull a goal back within 2 minutes. 2-1. The goal raised morale in the 2504 team and they pressed for the equaliser. The reshuffled 487 defence, coaxed by the replacement goalkeeper maintained an unbroken wall for the rest of the half. Half time score 2-1.

The brief half time interval allowed 487 to re-focus and ensure that the slip up allowing 2504 a first half goal was not repeated. The second half was played in the same vein as the first, with 487 forwards having the majority of the goal mouth action, although it was not all one-way traffic; Atkinson, the tall number 9 for the 2504 team went close on several occasions and was extremely unlucky not to add to the sky blue tally.

With the second half progressing, suddenly 487 broke from midfield allowing Nick Johnson to notch his second of the game. 3-1. The goal was a blow to the 2504 lads, and with confidence slipping away Johnson scored a third and seven minutes from time secured victory, latching on to weak back pass and with only the keeper to beat slotted the ball home for his 4th and Kingstanding’s fifth. Final Score 5-1. The game was a competitive encounter played in good spirit, both teams fighting for their Squadrons honour.

Cdt Josh Green was voted man of the match, showing remarkable skill at left back, charging forward, overlapping the winger, Kieran Small, to support the midfielders and forwards at every opportunity. The choice was a difficult one for the MOM Panel, with Nick Johnson repeating his achievements of the earlier tie, by scoring 4 goals, coming a close second.

The small crowd included Sqn Ldr Pat McCarroll scouting for likely players for the Wing team. The main selection trials will take place in January, but no harm in looking at the likely lads early.

487 Team Captain, Sgt Kenny Morris, said in the post match interview: “I’m ‘over the moon’ with the win, 2504 were gritty opponents, who made life difficult. It was frustrating that we had to wait until well into the game to finish ‘em off. I’m looking forward to the Semi-finals.” 487 will play either 29F or 479 Sqn following their quarter-final game, due early in the New Year.

Image: The 487 Sqn Team: Back Row; Shepherd, Bell, Belhana, Harris, Nayyar, Holsey, Daly, Morris (Capt). Front; Edmonds, Small, Green, Fahey, Bhakta, Johnson, Brookes.

by: Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill RAF VR(T) OC 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

20 Dec 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Mann Leads The Winning Team for Region

Cdt FS Hazel Mann from 2028 (Southam) Sqn was recently selected to represent Central and East Region for the Open Age Corps Netball competition on the 1st December. Chosen at the regional trials in November, FS Mann has represented various levels of the corps for netball over the years, resulting in her being chosen to captain the team this year.

Arriving at RAFC Cranwell early in the morning, the first match began at 9am with a win of 9 – 6 by the team against LASER. They went on to win the next two matches against Scotland and Northern Ireland (a massive 16 – 0), and Wales and West (6 – 4).

After lunch, the team faced their hardest opponents North Region, who had also won all their matches. After a tough game, C&E came through with a 7 – 6 win, putting them in a strong position for the trophy. The final opponents to face were South West Region. Fortunately, the C&E team managed an easy success and became Corps champions! As captain, FS Mann had the honour of receiving the well-deserved trophy from Commandant Air Cadets, Air Commodore Dawn McCafferty, who congratulated her on a great performance by Central and East.

Each member of the team was given a gold medal and travelled home knowing they are the best team in the Corps for 2012! On hearing the news Flt Lt Daryll Moreton, CO of 2028 Squadron remarked: "FS Mann is one of a number of very keen sports people we have here at Southam and to know that she was not only appointed Captain of the Central and East Netball Team but that they came away Champions is great news."

2028 Squadron is also proud to announce that FS Mann has been selected as a non-travelling reserve for the Corps team.

Image: FS Hazel Mann receives the Trophy from Commandant Air Cadets

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

05 Dec 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

485's Football Team Outplayed!

Saturday 10th November saw the 485 (Harbourne & Quinton) Sqn football team play their first game in the Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing football tournament, and unfortunately for them, they had been drawn against last year’s winners of the competition, 194 (BSA Small Heath) Sqn!
 

The game started quickly for 194 Sqn as they went into a 3-0 lead within the first 10 minutes. The 485 Sqn team pegged them back and just before half-time, they were awarded a penalty which was duly put away. At half-time the score was 4-1 and some re-organising was done by the football captain, Cdt Cpl Hitchman.

The second half started off with both teams playing the ball around in midfield, but the quality of the 194 Sqn shone through and they started to score some good quality goals. The final score was 10-1 to 194 Sqn.

Flt Lt Simon Jennings. OC 485 Sqn, commented: “Although the score suggests a hammering by 194 Sqn I thought that the 485 Sqn team did well and with some extra practice I’m sure they will start to gel as a team. However, what I am more impressed with is the number that turned up on the day. Cpl Hitchman had a total of 17 cadets to choose from for the team, and we also had three of the female cadets for vocal support! This is a great turnout from the Sqn.”

by: Flt Lt Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) OC 485 (Harbourne & Quinton) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

30 Nov 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Silver Medal for Peterborough Cadet

Cdt FS Jess Danells, who attends 115 (Peterborough) Sqn spent the day at RAFC Cranwell recently competing in the Region Open Netball competition. She was selected to represent the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing after competing at the Netball competition back in September.

Jess is an active netball player and was able to play in her favourite position of ‘Centre’ in which she was narrowly pipped to the post to move through to the next level. However, Jess came away from the competition with a Silver Medal for her participation in the competition. and was presented with it by Commanding Officer Flt Lt Stephen Dalton on parade at the squadron.

FS Danells said: "I was really happy that I got the opportunity to play for the Wing and compete at Regional level, it is great to say that I have got that far and I will be back in next years competition to see if I can get selected to represent the Region."

Image: Cdt FS Jess Danells proudly displaying her medal

by: CI Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg

29 Nov 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

In The Swim

The swimming team from 1220 (March) Sqn recently took part in the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing Swimming Gala. A team of 15 travelled to Peterborough Regional Pool where the gala was hosted.

The cadets were split into four groups by age and sex and competed against the 30 other squadrons in the Wing. Events included freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke and the dreaded butterfly; the 1220 team was able to enter a cadet into most races. On the day Cdt Joe Goodman won a Bronze medal in the junior boys breaststroke.

Following the Wing Gala the Wing Sports Officer selected cadets from around the Wing to represent Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing at the Region Swimming competition, Cdt FS Lauren Arnold was chosen from 1220 squadron.

The Region competition was held at RAFC Cranwell and Cdt FS Arnold competed in the freestyle and individual relays. She earned a Bronze medal for the freestyle event and was also presented with a Wing representation certificate.

Image: The 1220 (March) Sqn Swimming Team

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

25 Nov 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

At The Head of The Field

On Friday the 16th November two cadets from 864 (Watton) Sqn boarded a bus that would take them to RAFC Cranwell to play in the Regional Hockey Team. The two, Cdt Batty (14) who played in goal and Cdt Cpl Macloughlin (17) who played as team Captain both had an exceptional time.

In the first game they played, the Central and East team lost, but went on to win their next three games 3-0, 1-0, 1-0, Cpl Macloughlin in the last game managed to score in the closing minutes of the game to take the win and give the team an overall first place finish in the competition.

Cdt Batty said: “This is the first time I have represented the squadron at this level, it’s a great experience working with other cadets from all over the region to get this great result is amazing, thanks to all the other cadets in the team who made the win possible.”

After the matches were over Cdt Cpl Macloughlin was informed that she had been picked to play for the Corps at a national level on the 23rd of February 2013. On the Sunday Cpl Macloughlin was again playing sport, trying for a place on the Regional netball team at RAF Brampton, and was again successful and was picked for the Regional Netball team.

Cpl Macloughlin said of the weekends sports: “The hockey was brilliant, the team work was really good, considering we had never played together as a team before. Overall this weekend has been exhausting but well worth it especially to come out with representing the Corps and getting into the regional team on my first try in my three years as a cadet.”

Image: : Cdt Cpl Macloughlin. and Cdt Batty

by: CI Daniel Fishlock Sqn MCO 864 (Watton) Sqn - N&S Wg

19 Nov 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Football Victory

Games of football between 301 (Bury St Edmunds) and 863 (Thurston) Sqn have become tradition following parades, seeing the two squadrons taking it in turn to host the game. This Remembrance Sunday saw Bury host Thurston at King Edwards Upper School.

301 Squadron fielded a very strong team with a mix of new faces, who were representing the squadron for the first time, amongst the derby old timers.

The first half was fairly evenly matched with Cpl Sam Pennell snatching the opening goal. Unfortunately Thurston equalised before half time, seeing the two teams go into the break equal.

The two teams continued to battle in the second half. Cdt Cpl Pennell grabbed his second of the game, half way through the second half and 301 defended excellently to take the win.

The victory was a rarity for 301 Squadron, which has boosted the spirit of the team significantly after a 6-1 defeat in September following the Battle of Britain parade.

CI Matt Drewry, Sports Officer at 301 Squadron said: "I was extremely confident going in to the game as I knew we had a very strong team. The team played extremely well with outstanding performances from Cdt Bower (Goalkeeper), Cdt Osborne in centre midfield and Cdt Fairchild (new cadet) up front. Cdt Cpl Pennells determination throughout the game paid off with two important goals. Opportunities for us to increase the score line in the first half stacked up, including hitting the cross bar twice. Thurston squadron piled on the pressure in the last 15 - 20 minutes however a solid performance from the defence kept the lead ours. Cadet Wappett made two outstanding blocks on the goal line to keep Thurston out. The team can build on this and look forward to the matches next year."

by: CI Dan Garlick Sqn MCO 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn - N&S Wg

15 Nov 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Netball Trio Win Silver

Three girls from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have been representing Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at Netball this weekend

Cdts Lily Grimshaw, Ellie Hennessey and Isabella Shallcross represented Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at Netball at RAFC Cranwell. The team played well throughout the day finishing second in the tournament, earning Silver medals.

Cdts Ellie Hennessey and Isabella Shallcross have also been selected to attend the regional trials and therefore have the chance to represent Central and East Region at the Corps Championships.

Cdt Ellie Hennessey said: “The team played extremely well to gain second place in the tournament, although of course we are disappointed not to win gold. I am looking forward to the trials.”

Cdt FS Rhuben Smith added: “There is a long history of competitive sport within the Air Cadet Organisation. It helps to promote teamwork, organisation and pride, along with fitness.”

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

15 Nov 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Armistice Day Football Victory

487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn played their first game in this years Wing Football competition with a 4 – 2 victory over 8F (1st City of Coventry) Sqn. The game was played at Bishop Ullathorne School in Coventry, the home of 2438 (Bishop Ullathorne School) Sqn.

In unusually mild weather for the time of year. This was a repeat of the first round fixture in December 2010. Both squadrons had attended their respective Armistice Day parades in the morning before the scheduled 2:00 pm kick-off and were keen for the match to begin.

8F won the toss and elected to kick up the slope in the first half, with the low autumn sun at their backs. 487 took advantage of the terrain, having a number of attacks at the 8F goal. A combination of poor finishing and fine work from Edward Towers, the Wing & Region goalkeeper, prevented 487 from taking an early lead. As the half wore on 487 maintained the upper hand without any reward until, in the 20th minute, a piece of fine interplay from the 487 forward line allowed Cdt Cpl Nick Johnson to get in a shot which zipped in under the 8F keeper.

The goal settled the 487 team and as the half drew to a close Nick Johnson using his skill and tenacity forced in another two goals for the Birmingham side, claiming a hat-trick before the half-time whistle. The score line seemed to suggest that 487 had total domination, however 8F had their moments and forced 4 or 5 corners and peppered the 487 goal on several occasions during the half. Half-time score 3:0.

If the 487 side thought the game was in the bag at half time, they were in for an early shock. Within minutes of resuming hostilities, 8F had dragged a goal back. The goal lifted the Coventry lads and with renewed confidence surged forward pressing the 487 goal at every opportunity, eventually the 8F team got the reward their efforts deserved, another goal, suddenly at 3:2 the 487 team knew they had a battle on their hands.

The Birmingham side now knuckled down and recovered their first half composure, the game now ebbed and flowed, but toward the end of the half, 487 found again the key to unlocking the 8F defence. A jinking run from inside left, Edmonds tripping around defenders resulting in a save from the keeper, and a Nick Johnson shot against the bar were the highlights of the spell. Then 10 minutes from time Nick Johnson, 487’s star forward, found himself through on the goal with only the keeper to beat, maintaining his composure he slotted the ball home for his and 487s fourth of the game.

The game was a hard fought affair, but both teams were able to display a high level of skill made difficult on a sloping pitch with a few boggy patches at the lower end to contend with. It was an entertaining spectacle.

A delighted Nick Johnson, awarded the coveted Man of the Match Award after the game, commented: “You normally get a bottle of champagne and all I got was a tube of deep heat, but that’s football.”

487 will meet 2504 Squadron in the next round, who themselves notched six goals in their encounter with 163 Squadron. We look forward to the match.

Image by Sgt (ATC) Steve Mason, 163 Sqn: The 487 Sqn Team: BACK: Pierce, Jeffries, Nayyar, Holsey, Small, Daly, Bhakta FRONT: Fahey, Edmonds, Johnson, Morris (Capt), Sidhu, Shepherd

by: Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill RAF VR(T) OC 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

14 Nov 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

1360’s Netball Girls Score Again

Last weekend 1360 (Stapleford Sandiacre) Sqn’s four Netball fighting girls were waking up to the darker mornings, ready for another Sunday of Netball, but this time they would be competing for Victory at Wing level.

The competition took place at RAFC Cranwell where Cdts Shannon Conway (15), Abigail Stubbs (16) and Lauren Everett (15) were now working together with the chosen team to beat the other 6 wings in central & East Region. They were also fighting for a place in the Regional Netball Team to compete in the national competition. The four girls all enjoyed the day and kept smiling throughout!

It was great news for one of our girls, Cdt Shannon Conway has been selected for the Regional Trials. Fg Off Gareth Fowler, Officer Commanding 1360 Squadron said: “We are very proud of all of our girls who competed in the Wing Games and especially of Shannon who did very well to get chosen for regional selection.”

Cdt Conway said: “It was an amazing day with all the South and East Midland girls even though the rest of the Teams came off with sad faces our Wing were always cheering and smiling. By the end of the day we had become a little family.”

Image: Cdt Shannon Conway

by: Fg Off Gareth Fowler RAF VR(T) OiC 1360 (Stapleford Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg
 

12 Nov 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

We Have Our Netball Team

It was another early morning for six of 1360 (Stapleford and Sandiacre) Sqn's female cadets who had the long journey to RAF Wittering, where they would take part in fighting for a place in the Wing's Girls Netball Team.

Cdts Abigail Stubbs (16), Shannon Conway (15), Jade Cox (14), Charlotte Lee (15) and Lauren Everett (15) were against a number of girls from different squadrons, some small some tall, it was time to get tough. The girls played different games and various positions to see how well they played. At the end of the day the team was chosen and three of our girls made into to the Wing Netball Team, Shannon Conway, Abigail Stubbs and Lauren Everett.

The competition will take place on Sunday 4th November 2012 at RAFC Cranwell. We wish the girls best of luck! Well done

by: Cdt FS Abi Jones Media Team 1360 (Stapleford and Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg

31 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Henlow Cadet Receives Top Award

Cdt Sgt Jessica Richards (16) has been working toward her swimming teaching qualifications in her own time and all the hard work has finally paid off with Jess receiving the Top award.

She said “It has been a long hard few months but thankfully I have passed my exams and received my award but I am not stopping there I want to progress further and gain further qualifications."

Fg off Nigel Rowland added: “It’s an exciting time for Jess to gain the qualification, we know at the squadron how hard she has been working to get the award and its all paid off. We are looking to assist with funding for her to move forward and gain the next level.”

by: Flt Lt Dave Robinson RAF VR(T) OC 2482 (Henlow) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

21 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

A Swimming Success For Nuneaton’s Nine

Nine Nuneaton cadets have recently managed to pull off an unbelievably outstanding performance at the Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing Swimming Championships.

The nine cadets who were representing 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn must have been one of the smallest teams at the Wing championships 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 nine, determined to do their best, just kept winning medals. Cdt Matthew Waudby took the Gold in the junior boys freestyle and then went on to win a silver medal in the breaststroke. Then when the junior boys relay team, Cdts Samuel Baynes, Cameron Bennett, Adam Harris and Matthew Waudby took to the pool they clocked up another silver with a truly outstanding performance.

Cdt Sgt Sarah Painter who was the only girl representing 121 Squadron, put on a sterling performance in both the freestyle and the breaststroke, battling not only the opposition but also difficulties with her health to reach the final in one of her heats.

The senior boys team of Cdts Daniel Game, Michael Griffiths and Cdt Cpl Matthew Carrington also did Nuneaton squadron proud when they managed to get through the heats and into the finals. Then with only moments to spare another of 121 Squadrons senior boys Cdt FS Michael Hadley flew in to make up the numbers so that the lads could compete in the senior boys relay. When I say, flew in, it was quite literally that, FS Hadley had just arrived at the last moment, still wearing his flying suit after a day at RAF Cosford where he serves as a staff cadet with 633 VGS. Unfortunately, despite every effort from the senior boys they were unable to add to the squadrons medal tally.

With an impressive total of 1 Gold, and 2 Silver medals between them, the four junior boys team members from 121 Squadron eventually took 2nd place in the junior boys overall championship.

Flt Lt Paul Hincks Officer Commanding 121 Squadron, who accompanied team said: “I was delighted with our team’s performance. We only had nine cadets in total and to end up coming 2nd in the junior boys championship with a junior team of only four cadets is just unbelievable. I would also like to thank Sasha Dowdall for organising the team and cadet Amy Bloxham and members of the Squadrons Civilian Committee who provided some extremely enthusiastic support for the team.

“Every single one of our swimmers did their absolute best and that’s what sport in the Air Cadets is all about and we can’t ask more that that, but I must single out two of the team for special credit and they are Cadet Matthew Waudby who came away with 3 medals and was selected to represent the Wing at the Regional championships and Cadet Sergeant Sarah Painter who courageously overcame difficulties with her health to get into the finals as the sole female to represent her Squadron.

“Hopefully the achievements of our small team of nine cadets this year will serve to encourage more of our cadets, both boys and especially girls to take part next year. Who knows, perhaps we could achieve even better results with a larger team.”

Image: Nuneaton’s swimming team, (back row) Supporter Cdt Amy Bloxham, Swimmers, Cdts Adam Harris, Matthew Waudby, Cameron Bennett, Samuel Baynes, Cdt FS Michael Hadley. (front row) Cdt Sgt Sarah Painter, Cdts Michael Griffiths, Daniel Game, and Cdt Cpl Matthew Carrington.

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

21 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Triumph at Region Trials

Cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have recently attended Regional hockey and football trials at RAFC Cranwell.

Cdts Lily Grimshaw and Bella Shallcross despite not playing at the Inter-Wing Competition were picked to go forward to the Regional trials after standing out at the Wing trials. After a day of hard playing they sadly were not picked but they were proud to get as far as they did.

Whilst the girls were playing on the hockey pitch, outside the boys were taking place in trials for junior football with Cdt Cpl Adam Brown representing the Wing and trying to win himself a place on the Region team. Showing his skill and determination he was selected for the Region Team and will play next month at the Inter-Region Competition.

Cpl Brown said: “Both of the girls and myself were very proud to represent the Wing. I am very happy to have been picked for the Region Football and I cannot wait to play.”

Cdt FS Smith the squadron’s Sports Officer added: “The cadets have all put lots of effort to succeed at the weekend’s trials. They all should be very proud.”

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

19 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

104 Swim Their Way to Victory

A team of three cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have taken part in the Central and East Region Inter-Wing Swimming championships held at RAFC Cranwell in Lincolnshire.

The cadets were representing Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing after being selected at our Inter-Squadron championships held at the beginning of September. Cdts Catherine Watson, Rory Godwin and Hugo Barker proudly represented the squadron and wing pulling out some spectacular performances.

Cdt Catherine Watson was the high achiever for Cambridge on the day, getting a Silver in Senior Girls Breaststroke. Cdt Godwin swam in the Junior Boys Freestyle just missing out on a top 3 spot and Cdt Barker swam in the Junior Boys Backstroke.

Cdt Catherine Watson said: “Representing the squadron and wing was gave me a great sense of pride and I was rewarded with a Silver medal. The rest the of the cadets from the squadron swam really well.”

Cdt FS Rhuben Smith, the squadron Sports Officer, added: “It's good to see the cadets represent the squadron and wing at swimming, they have achieved a lot getting so far and getting some great results.”

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

18 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

One Point Secures Wing’s Victory

South & East Midlands Wing secured victory in the Inter Wing Swimming Competition over arch rivals, Trent Wing, by the narrowest of margins.

Just one point separated the two teams at the end of a hard fought, nail biting contest that saw the cadets fight hard for every podium place in a contest that saw four records broken, one by the Wing’s, Cdt Cpl Pippa Ball, from 1084 (Market Harborough) Sqn.

The Wing took both the Senior Girls and Senior Boys Trophies, came second to Trent Wing in the Junior Girls Class and joint second with Trent in the Junior Boys, victory going to Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire Wing.

The broad grin on the face of Officer Commanding the Wing, Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson said it all. He told the team: “ I am proud of you all and thank you for all the effort you have put in to this victory, at last we have got the swimming trophy.”  Cadets who won their races will now go on to represent Central and East Region in the Inter Region Championships.

Image: The winning Team with Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson and Staff

by: Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) Wing MCO - SEM Wg

09 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Success In The Hockey

On Sunday the 30th September four cadets from 864 (Watton) Sqn took part in an inter-wing girls Hockey tournament held at RAFC Cranwell, representing Norfolk and Suffolk Wing.

The four cadets were Cdt Cpl Alice MacLoughlin, centre midfield, who was also given the honour of captaining the Norfolk and Suffolk team, Cdt Cpl Beth Anscombe, right defence, Cdt Hadiee Anscombe, a forward & Cdt Pollyann Batty team goalkeeper.

The team managed to score 8 goals and only conceded one goal this led to the Norfolk and Suffolk team coming a closely contested first place drawing on games won (three won and one draw) but beating the second place team by just one goal.

Three of the Cadets Cpl Alice MacLoughlin, Cpl Beth Anscombe & Cdt Pollyann Batty were picked by Flt Lt Michelle Worsnop, a Region scout to go forward and trial for the regional team and if successful would play against the other five regions from all across the country.

Cpl MacLoughlin said: ”It was a really great competition, all the girls played really well, and to have three cadets from our squadron picked to try for the regional team is a fantastic result, I’m so happy to have played as captain of this great team.”

Each Player from the day was awarded a players medal and as captain of the winning team. Cpl MacLoughlin was presented with the winner’s trophy by the Officer Commanding Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire wing.

by: CI Daniel Fishlock Sqn MCO 864 (Watton) Sqn - N&S Wg
 

05 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Stapleford Cadet Captains Football Team for 3rd Year

Cdt FS Liam Osbiston (17) of 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn recently excelled at the South and East Midlands Wing Senior football trials.

The trials involved a comprehensive warm up, then skill drills ranging from shooting, to passing and heading. Players were then split into teams and played against each other 7-a-side games. To his delight, Liam gained a place in the team for the fourth year in a row and he also was told that he would captain the team for the 3rd year running.

He will now go on to play at the inter wing competition at RAFC Cranwell competing against teams from throughout Central & East Region.

Fg Off Gareth Fowler, Commanding Officer of 1360 Squadron said: “Football is just one of the many activities that the air cadets has to offer and Liam is particularly outstanding at this. Congratulations to him and I’m sure that he lead the Wing Team to success.”

by: Fg Off Gareth Fowler RAF VR(T) OiC 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg

04 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

1360 Cadets Swim to Success

Cadets from 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn have just had a trip to Leicestershire’s Braunstone Swimming Baths for the Wings Inter-Squadron swimming competition.

The cadets took part in different heats against other squadrons in their age category. There were four different heats for all age groups covering the events of Butterfly, Breaststroke, Backstroke and Freestyle.

Cdt FS Abigail Jones (17) was 1360 Squadron’s best performing, successfully qualifying for the final of her two events. Fg Off Gareth Fowler, Commanding Officer of 1360 Squadron, said: “All of our cadets did fantastically well in their heats and we couldn’t have asked for any more effort than they put in. The performance gives us something to build on for future competitions.”

by: Fg Off Gareth Fowler RAF VR(T) OiC 1360 (Stapleford & Sandiacre) Sqn - SEM Wg
 

01 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cambridge Corporal Kicks Away

The Olympics in London may have passed by but cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn cadets are still enjoying sporting achievements.

Cdt Cpl Adam Brown represented Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at Football at RAFC Cranwell. The team played well throughout the day finishing second in the tournament, earning Silver medals.

Cpl Brown said: “The team played extremely well to gain second place in the tournament, although of course we are disappointed not to win gold.”

Flt Lt Richard Slack added: “There is a long history of competitive sport within the Air Cadet Organisation. It helps to promote teamwork, organisation and pride, along with fitness.”

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

01 Oct 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Kettering's Cadets - Best Swimmers in Northamptonshire

1101 (Kettering) Sqn cadets are celebrating after being highly placed in a prestigious swimming competition.

Cadets from the squadron gathered at a swimming pool in Leicester to take part in the South & East Midlands Wing Swimming Championships 2012. During the event the cadets were delighted to scoop 12th place out of the 29 squadrons taking part.

Squadron commanding officer, Flt Lt Guy Slack, said: “To come 12th in this annual competition is a real achievement for us here in Kettering. I am proud of my cadets who can now proudly declare that they are the best swimmers in Northamptonshire!”

by: CI Abi Goldson Sqn MCO 1101 (Kettering) Sqn - SEM Wg

24 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Swimming for Six!

Last Saturday evening, 21 cadets from 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn headed to Stetchford Baths for the Wing Swimming Championships.

The cadets had decided to train for the event this year and had put in a worthwhile training session demonstrating a fantastic commitment to be the best they could on the day.

Flt Lt Les Vile, OC 163 Squadron said: " I'm very pleased that every cadet, who promised to swim, turned up on the day along with some enthusiastic supporters. It demonstrates the excellent 163 team spirit and every cadet gave 100% and can be duly proud of their efforts."

The senior girls' team, consisting of just 3 swimmers, successfully defended their title and walked away, for the 6th consecutive year, with the Senior Girls trophy. CWO Tabram, Cdt FS Messam & Cdt Sgt Hughes were duly proud of their achievement and FS Messam hopes to go on to success at the Regional Championships.

Image: Alongside the girls and their trophy is Cdt McKernan who also had a very successful evening, reaching all of his individual finals and picking up a silver medal in the freestyle event.

by: Mandy Sinfield Sqn MCO 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn - W&B Wg

21 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

485's Way to a Trophy!

Saturday 15th September saw 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn reach another milestone in their long history when the Sqn once again started to bring home the silver!

The squadron was competing at the Wing swimming championships which were held at the Stetchford swimming pool in Birmingham. It was a fantastic attendance at the pool from right across the wing and the noise levels were great as the events got under way, was this legacy of the Olympics?

Cdt’s Szucs, Mccabe, Woolley and Cdt Cpl Kettle made up the small team from the Sqn, and Cdt’s Manson and Toolan were there to give them loud support during the evening. The stars of the evening were Cpl Kettle and Cdt Szucs who came away with the overall Junior boys trophy, what an effort!

Cdt Szucs, who has only been with the Sqn for a few months, finished with three gold medals. He finished first in the Butterfly, Backstroke and Individual Medley. Cpl Kettle finished 2nd in the Backstroke, giving the Sqn a 1st and 2nd prize in that event.

Cdt’s Mccabe and Woolley also competed fantastically well producing a great effort for their Sqn. Cdt Szucs will now go forward to represent the Wing at the regional swimming championships.

Flt Lt Simon Jennings, OC 485 Sqn commented: “Once again these swimming championships have proved that if you have got talent on your Sqn you don’t need masses of cadets to come away with a trophy. I am immensely proud of the cadets who competed for our Sqn and in particular, Cpl Kettle and Cdt Szucs. The team wanted to leave at the end of the night before the prize giving was completed, but I had a feeling we were in with a chance of certainly getting in the top three, but to win the trophy was fantastic. Well done to all the team and to our two supporters. Thanks also to CI Ellen Seymour for looking after the cadets whilst I was getting thoroughly wet by the pool.”

by: Flt Lt Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) OC 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

19 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Swimming Success For Cambridge Cadets

A team of nine cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have taken part in the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing Swimming championships held at Peterborough Regional Pool.

The cadets won a total of five medals and were further rewarded by coming 2nd in the trophy for the team event in the Senior Girls competition and 2nd in the Overall Girls competition. Individual medals were won by Cdt Catherine Watson who stormed home first in the Senior Girls Breaststroke and will now go forward to represent Bedfordshire and Cambridge Wing at the Regional competition, whilst Cdt Cpl Julie Nash won two Silver’s in the Senior Girls Butterfly and Individual Medley.

Other notable performances included Cdt Lewis Francis coming second in the Junior Boys Butterfly and Cdt Hugo Barker coming second in Junior Backstroke.

Cdt FS Rhuben Smith, the Squadron Sports Officer said: “The cadets representing the squadron swam with pride and were rewarded with medals and trophies. The squadron this year has been exceptional at sports.”

CI Ian Griffiths added: “It was really good to see so many cadets willing to represent the Squadron at Swimming and achieving such an excellent result.”

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

19 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Goal Attack for Peterborough Cadets

Eight female cadets from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn spent the day at RAF Brampton recently competing in the Wing Open Netball competition.

The competition is open for all females, aged 13 and 3 months up to age 18 who are active members of the ATC. The selection process is for each squadron in Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing to submit a team of seven cadets to play against each other. From these games, the cadets will be selected to represent their Wing at the Regional Netball Competition which is being held at RAFC Cranwell on 4th November.

The team was made up of team captain, Cdt Sgt Jess Danells (16) and Cdts Ellie Simpson, Chloe Garner, Gemma Beales, Vicky Jackson, Nadine Ward, Annabelle Taylor and Becca Schofield – a team of seven cadets and one reserve.

The cadets played a total of nine games. From these games, Sgt Jess Danells was selected from the 72 girls who were participating in the competition to go on to the next round which is to represent the Wing at RAF Cranwell. During the competition, she was playing in the position of ‘centre’ which she hopes to continue to play at the next competition.

With Sgt Danells safely selected, two more females, Cdts Ellie Simpson and Chloe Garner were picked to be reserve team members. Sgt Jess Danells said: "I was really impressed with the team throughout the day, they worked really well together and played with their heart and soul. It is fabulous that out of the 30 Squadrons in our Wing, we have had three cadets selected to form the team which will represent them all."

Flt Lt Stephen Dalton, Officer Commanding 115 Squadron, said: "I'm very proud to have such determined cadets who will participate in sporting events, not only to support their squadron but who progress through and end up representing the Wing, or even the Region or Corps later on – they are an asset to the squadron!"

by CI Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg

18 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Golds Galore For 104

Cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn can celebrate after winning gold in the open netball held at RAF Brampton.

The team, which included members of 1985 (Flitwick) Sqn swept aside the competition from the other squadrons within Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing for a second time after winning the junior netball in January. The team was strong in defence whilst in attack Cadet Elspeth Hennessey seemed to score every time she had the ball in her hands.

After winning the competition Cdts Elspeth Hennessey, Lily Grimshaw and Bella Shallcross were delighted to hear they had also been selected for the Wing team.

Whilst the girls were storming to victory inside, outside the boys were taking place in trials for junior football with Cdt Cpl Adam Brown representing the squadron, showing the skill and determination to be selected as a reserve to represent the Wing.

Cdt Cpl Julie Nash said: “The cadets at the squadron were ecstatic to win the competition and get a second gold and will represent the Wing with the same pride, courage and determination.”

Cdt FS Smith the squadron’s Sports Officer added: “The cadets have all put lots of effort to succeed at the weekend’s competition and trials. The netball team especially showed not only individual skill but excellent teamwork and communication as they earned their victory.”

by: CWO Jess Bradshaw Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

18 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Swimming Success For Ramsey

In September, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing held their Inter Squadron Swimming Gala at Peterborough Regional Pool. 3 Cadets from 511 (Ramsey) Sqn participated and won two silver and a bronze medal.

Cdt Cpl Jack Mandley (16) won two silver medals in the 50metres Butterfly and the 4x1 length Individual Medley, Cdt Sean Naisby (14) competed in the 50 metres backstroke winning a bronze medal.

The other member of the team was Cdt Rachael Hatzfeld (15) although did not win a medal did exceptionally well in her events.
Plt Off Helen Roseman said: “Although we were not a big team we certainly did very well, I am extremely proud of the effort that the cadets put in this evening, well done."

Image: Cdt Sean Naisby and Cdt Cpl Jack Mandley

by: Plt Off Helen Roseman RAF VR(T) OiC 511(Ramsey) Sqn - B&C Wg

17 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Swimming Success at 487

Sixteen cadets from 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn recently travelled to Stechford baths for the annual Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing swimming competition. Competition was fierce but the squadron managed to come away with five medals, a great achievement.

The event was well attended by the wing as a whole with a great atmosphere throughout. The excellent numbers in attendance saw a later-than-expected finish, although no-one seemed to mind too much. On the contrary, the final event of the relay had as much energy and spark as the first race had earlier.

OIC 487 Plt Off Cotton said of the event: “Once again 487 have shown their have-a-go philosophy at it finest with a great turnout for the swimming competition this year. I know I echo the sentiments of all the staff team when I say I am proud of every single 487 cadet here, irrespective of whether they finished first or last in their races.”

Congratulations go to CWO Lycett for his third place finish in the senior boys freestyle, and Cdt Uppal for her second place finish in the junior girls backstroke. 487’s stand-out performance on the day belonged to Cdt B Edmonds who finished second in the senior girls freestyle and individual medley, and stormed to first place in the breaststroke. Cdt Edmonds’ medals helped 487 to a second place finish in the overall senior girls competition.

Well done and thank you to all who turned up on the day.

Sgt (ATC) Nicky Gallivan Sqn MCO 487 (Kingstanding & Perry Barr) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

16 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

March Take To The Pool For Annual Swim Tests

The George Campbell swimming pool in March was recently taken over by the cadets of 1220 (March) Sqn so that they could complete their swimming proficiency tests. These tests are at three levels Basic, Intermediate and Advanced and each year the cadets have the opportunity to complete the award.

The basic award involves swimming two lengths of the pool, floating for a timed period and then exiting the pool unaided. After completing this cadets are invited to try the intermediate award, along with those that achieved the basic in previous years.

The intermediate award is completed wearing a t-shirt and involves a longer swim, another float, retrieving an object from the bottom of the pool and the use of some lifesaving techniques. Other cadets attempted the advanced award which is increasingly difficult as it also involves wearing trousers as well as a t-shirt and has some timed elements.

The safety of the swim was taken supervised of by lifeguard Cdt FS Lauren Arnold (19) who also assessed the proficiencies achieved at intermediate and advanced level. Other squadron staff were on hand to co-ordinate the training, and after completion of the proficiencies the cadets were given time to make use of having the pool to themselves.

A total of nine Basic awards were completed, eleven Intermediate and two Advanced. Cdt Kyle McLean (13) demonstrated that he is a strong swimmer by completing all three proficiency levels on the same day.

Cdt Cpl Alex MacRae (16) who also completed the Advanced award said: “Gaining a swimming proficiency is useful as it demonstrates your ability in the water and allows us to do other activities like canoeing. I did my Basic and Intermediate last year and I’m pleased I managed to complete the Advanced award this year, even though I found it quite difficult.”

Image: The 1220 swimmers

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

14 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Make A Splash At Swimming Gala

863 (Thurston) Sqn won 25 medals and became the overall swimming champions at the Wings recent Inter-Squadron swimming competition.

12 cadets from the squadron took part in the gala, competing against cadets from 28 other squadrons across Norfolk and Suffolk. They competed in various individual and group relay races in four categories and came home with 8 gold, 7 silver and 10 bronze medals, in the butterfly, backstroke, medley and relay events.

The team consisted of Cdt Sgts Stephen Handleigh and Stephen Yates; Cdt Cpl Adam Pepper; and Cdts Kristian Royal, Samantha Miles, Megan Hood, Moraine Pepper, Georgia MacDonald, Ewan Gadd, Robert Hall, Matthew Skoyles and Ryan Tutthill.

Officer in Charge, Fg Off Adam Martin, said: "The cadets who represented the squadron put in 100% effort throughout the day and came away with a well deserved result winning the Junior Girls category and becoming the overall swimming champions for Norfolk and Suffolk Wing 2012. Every cadet from Thurston Squadron who participated in the event came away with a medal which was fantastic."
 

Image: The Thurston Sqn Swimming Team

by: CI Claire Marks Sqn MCO 863 (Thurston) Sqn - N&S Wg

13 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Triple Gold and Double Bronze for Oakley Cadets

Cadets from 2462 (Oakley) Sqn recently competed in the Wing's Inter Squadron Wing swimming event at Peterborough Regional Pool.

During the evenings activities Cdt James Merriman won Gold medals in the Freestyle, Breast Stroke and Butterfly, winning overall 1st place in the under 16 Boys Category, while Cdt Cpl Tim Funnell achieved bronze medals in Freestyle and Butterfly Finishing 3rd Overall in the Over 16 Boys Category. Cdt Merriman will now go on to represent the Wing at the Regional competition.

The Squadron finished in overall 3rd place out of 29 squadrons.
 

Image: Cdt Cpl Tim Funnell  & Cdt James Merriman display their medal haul

by: Steve Tyrrell 2462 (Oakley) Sqn - B&C Wg

12 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Bronze for Oakley Cadets in Netball

Cadets from 2462 (Oakley) Sqn recently competed in the Inter Squadron Wing Netball Competition at RAF Brampton.

Winning their first three matches and finishing in overall 3rd place, Cdt Cpl Ellen Dewson led the squadron team including Cdts Lucy Breed, Holly Crane, Amy Hall, Emma Hall, Micaella Joaquim and Alzbeta Nelson all of which received Bronze Medals.

Cpl Dewson was also chosen to represent the Wing at the Regional Netball competition later in the year.

by: Steve Tyrrell 2462 (Oakley) Sqn - B&C Wg

12 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Success in the Pool.

Move over Adlington and Phelps, there are some new swimmers in town. 301 (Bury St. Edmunds) Sqn took to the water this weekend in Norfolk and Suffolk Wing's annual swimming event at Wattisham Airbase.

11 cadets travelled to Wattisham to participate in the seven events and performed extremely well for a small team.

The Junior Boys category finished third out of the fifteen, with the Senior Boys finishing first. Cdt Jack Treacy came away with four medals in his first swimming event for the squadron. Jack finished first in the freestyle, second in the medley and butterfly, respectively and third in the freestyle medley. The top performances in the pool lead to the boys finishing as overall winners in the Wing.

Similar success was witnessed in the girls category, with Cdt Jessica Osborne broke the Wing backstroke record by 6 seconds. Some of the cadets have now been asked to represent Norfolk and Suffolk Wing at RAFC Cranwell on the 7th October for the Inter Wing Competition.

Sports Officer Matt Drewry added: "This is the best performance from the squadron for the last few years, all the cadets done fantastically well and can be very proud!"

by: CI Dan Garlick Sqn MCO 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn - N&S Wg

11 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Silver Swimming Success for 1239

Cadets from 1239 (Broxbourne & Hoddesdon) Sqn were runners up at the 2012 Hertfordshire & Buckinghamshire Wing Swimming Competition held at the Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, St Albans on 8th September 2012.

1239 Squadron was one of 26 squadrons that competed for the medals and silverware, and finished overall second to 2409 (Halton) Sqn, who were again crowned the Wing Swimming champions for 2012 – a replication of last years’ result when 1239 Squadron were also runners up.

The squadron put in some strong performances and won eight medals; five gold and three bronze. In addition to achieving overall second for the competition, the squadron also achieved second in the Senior Female category, the Junior Female category and the overall Female category.

Cdt Cpl Pickering and Cdt Metin will now go onto represent Hertfordshire & Buckinghamshire Wing at the Central & East Region competition at RAF College Cranwell on the 7th October 2012.

Flt Lt Mark Richards, Officer Commanding 1239 Squadron, said: "I am delighted with the team's performance. We only had eight cadets representing the squadron, and they did an excellent job, winning eight medals, five of which were gold. Special mention has to go to both Cdt Metin who won three gold medals and to Cdt Cpl Pickering who won two gold medals and a bronze medal. These performances, along with the others in the team helped the squadron to overall runners up for this years' competition. We're proud of each and every one of them, a great team effort and we wish both Cdt Metin and Cpl Pickering all the best at the Region competition next month".

Image: Members of the 1239 Squadron Swimming team who came overall runners-up at the 2012 Hertfordshire & Buckinghamshire Wing Swimming Competition.

by: Flt Lt Mark Richards RAF VR(T) OC 1239 (Broxbourne & Hoddesdon) Sqn - H&B Wg

10 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Swimming Stars!

Cadets from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn turned out recently in force to participate in the Wing swimming trials in a bid to secure a place in the Wing Swimming Team. Cadets from various squadrons across the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing descended on the Regional Swimming Pool in Peterborough to race against their fellow air cadets to see if they were the fastest within their age group.

Overall, the squadron came second in the Junior Girls category (under 16 years old) and came home with three individual medals.

Cdt Katie Hutchinson was awarded two Gold medals for winning her races in the Under 16’s female categories of Freestyle and the Individual Medley. Cdt Declan Liddle was awarded a Silver medal for his Breaststroke in the under 16’s male category. Both cadets will hopefully go on to represent the Wing in the Regional competition to be held at RAFC Cranwell.

Cdt Liddle said: "I was delighted to have gotten a silver medal and representing my squadron at the event. It is great to meet fellow cadets from around the area and there is a great sense of team and individual camaraderie displayed at these events."

Flt Lt Stephen Dalton Officer Commanding 115 Squadron said after the races: "All of the cadets put in a superb effort during the evening’s races with all of them finishing their allocated race. We had a great number of supporters in the viewing gallery and were by far the loudest supporters with the squadron Mascot 'FS Rodney’ Bear' and the 115 Battle Banner being proudly displayed."

by: CI Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg

06 Sep 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadet Receives Award from Kriss Akabusi

At 51 (Orton) Sqn we are not only proud of what our cadets achieve through the ATC but also their achievements outside of the squadron, it is with this in mind that we would like to congratulate one of our newest members Cdt Kieran Robinett.

Kieran was nominated for three sports awards recently, through his school Stanground Academy. These nominations were for the following, Fair play, Under 14 Rugby Team, and Most Improved Sports Boy. It was to Kieran’s great shock and surprise that he received the award of Most Improved Sports Boy.

Kieran said: “I really did not expect this. Even though I try my hardest as sport, and enjoy playing Badminton and Rugby I did not realise that I must have come such a long way. What really made this award so special was the presentation of it by Kriss Akabusi. Kriss is a lovely man who believes that everyone can achieve.”

Kriss is famous for his achievements in athletics and he is an inspiration to all youths, his dedication has shown that anyone can achieve anything that they put their mind to with hard work and dedication, which is what Orton squadron cadets give to the ATC.

by: Tasha Robinett Sqn MCO 51 (Orton) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

09 Aug 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page\

Cadets Get Into The Olympic Spirit

Cadets from 1101 (Kettering) Sqn are celebrating after beating off stiff competition to win a local volleyball tournament.

A group of 12 cadets recently took part in Kettering Borough Council's Urban Beach Volleyball competition and achieved sporting glory after coming first and second in the 14 – 16 age group section.

Flt Lt Guy Slack, Commanding Officer at Kettering squadron said: “I am delighted that cadets have been able to get involved in this community event, get into the Olympic spirit and score so highly. The two trophies are now proudly displayed at the squadron.”

Image: Cadets from Kettering squadron proudly display their medals.

by: Abi Goldson Sqn MCO 1101 (Kettering) Sqn - SEM Wg

30 Jul 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Wings Top Female Sports Cadet

Cdt Sgt Elloise Messam, (16) of 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn is celebrating having been named as the best 'Female Sports Cadet' of the year in Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing for 2011-12

24 Jul 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of pageHaving represented 163 Squadron in all sports, Sgt Messam was also selected to represent Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing at all sports; swimming, cross country, hockey, netball and athletics, before being chosen to represent Central & East Region at the Corps Swimming Championships.

Officer Commanding 163 squadron, Flt Lt Les Vile, said: “Sgt Messam is a very talented sports cadet who shows a high level of motivation and the determination to succeed. She also takes the time to encourage other cadets on the Squadron to get involved in sports activities and she has recently completed her Community Sports Leaders Award.”

Sgt Messam was recently presented with her award by Wg Cdr James Tomlinson RAF, Officer Commanding No.1 School of Technical Training at Defence College Aeronautical Engineering (DACE) Cosford, at Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing’s annual Wing Training Day at Bramcote Barracks.

Image: Trophy presentation to Sgt Messam by Wg Cdr Tomlinson RAF

by: Mandy Sinfield Sqn MCO 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn - W&B Wg

24 Jul 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Holbeach Cadet Spears National Success

Cdt Sgt Philip Ford from 2430 (Holbeach) Sqn has scored national success with the javelin. Having gained a Silver Medals for the 800 meters and javelin at the Beds and Cambs wing and Regional Athletics competitions, Sgt Ford was entered into to the Inter Region Athletics competition representing Central and East Region in the javelin and won a bronze medal.

Holbeach squadron commander, Flt Lt Andy Mason, said: “I am very proud of Sgt Ford, he has proved that even a smaller squadron like ours can produce cadets who can compete and win at a national level.”

Image: Cdt Sgt Phil Ford with his medals.

by Flt Lt Jeff Goodley RAF VR(T) (Retd) 2430 (Holbeach) Sqn - B&C Wg

22 Jul 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Peterborough Cadet is Champion!

A cadet from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn has been crowned champion after smashing her way to a gold medal. Running at the Corps Athletics Championships at DCAE Cosford on 30th June, Cdt Katie Hutchinson powered her way around the 1500m course to finish in first place.

Cdt Hutchinson has worked her way up to this event, by smashing all of the other competitors at wing and regional level. She was representing her squadrons region at the event, Central and Eastern. She is now the 1500m Under 15’s Girls Corps Champion – a proud moment for the squadron and her family.

Cdt Hutchinson said: "I was very excited to have got this far in the athletics competition. I have been preparing for this for several months now and it is excellent that I have come so far and can say that I am the fastest at running the 1500m in my age group for the Air Cadets!"

Image: Cdt Katie Hutchinson after her winning race, when she had just been presented with the trophy.

by: Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg

Olympic Fever Comes Early for Felixstowe

The Corps Athletics was held at DCAE Cosford, near Telford on the 30th June 2012. Cdt Cpl Sophie Leigh-Pearson and Cdt Sgt Jack Moore, travelled the four hour coach journey from Felixstowe on the 29th June.

The competition started at 8 am on the Saturday, we were representing 356 (Felixstowe) Sqn and the Central & Eastern Region, quite an honour.

My event, the Discus, didn’t start until 2:30 so I had time to watch and cheer our teams. Then it was my turn with the Discus. After a bit of a battle I came 5th overall. Not bad for 5th in the whole of the Air Cadets!

Cdt Cpl Leigh-Pearson was competing in the 4x100m relay later in the afternoon. A strong competition and after a tough battle her team won the event, winning the ‘Gold’.

Winning ‘Gold’ is a massive achievement for both her and the squadron. 1st place in the Air Cadets. The whole day was a great success with Central and East Region coming 2nd Overall.

Images: 1. Cdt Cpl Sophie Leigh-Pearson, 2. Cdt Sgt Jack Moore - both with C&E Region Certificates and Regional 'Blues.

by Cdt Sgt Jack Moore 356 (Felixstowe) Sqn - N&S Wg
 

04 Jul 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Going for GOLD

119 (Scunthorpe) Sqn were pleased to be told that one of their cadets, Thomas Henton, has now won a total of 7 medals for sport this year.

It all started at Quibell Park, Scunthorpe for the Trent Wing Sports Competition on Sunday 27th May 2012 where he won Gold in both 100 metres and 400 metres.

He then went on to win Gold in 100 metre relay, Silver in both the 100 metre and 400 metre and Bronze in the 5 x 400 Relay. This was for the Regional Sports Competition. Cdt Henton then went on to the Corps Sports Competition at DCAE Cosford where he won Silver in the 4 x 100 metres.

Cdt Henton was congratulated by Scunthorpe Squadron's Officer Commanding, Flt Lt Jackie Naylor, on final parade and the cadets gave a loud cheer of acknowledgement for Thomas' achievements.

Image: Cdt Thomas Henton with one of his medals.

by: CI Teresa Price Sqn MCO 119 (Scunthorpe) Sqn - Trent Wg
 

04 Jul 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

2028’s Ace Athlete Wins Again!

At the recent Inter Region Corps Athletics meet held at RAF Cosford, Cdt Sgt Alex Caves of 2028 (Southam) Sqn represented Central and East Region in two events.

Once again he triumphed; he won a Silver Medal in the 100 meters and was part of the winning relay team, coming home with a Gold Medal. The hope is he may now be selected to represent the ATC running against cadets from all the Cadet Forces.

Sgt Caves has continued to win medals in virtually every sport he's been involved in but athletics has been his greatest success. He is by far and away the best athlete at 2028 squadron with a haul of almost 30 medals to date in various sports.

Flt Lt Daryll Moreton, Commanding Officer of 2028 Squadron, commented on hearing the news: "Alex Caves will always give his best in spite of not always being 100% fit, he has represented 2028 Squadron at all levels within the ATC and we are all very proud of him and his continued success. The eagle eyed will notice he is wearing the new squadron hooded top in his picture!"

Image: Cdt Sgt Alex Caves with his two medals wearing his new squadron hooded top

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

04 Jul 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Norfolk & Suffolk Wing Athletics

West Suffolk Athletics Arena at Bury St Edmunds recently hosted the Norfolk & Suffolk Wing Athletics Championships. Squadrons from across the Wing competed in track and field events officiated over by some existing and newly qualified Wing Staff after they completed their Sports Official qualifications early in the year.

The day was supported well by the cadets taking part and their Squadron staff some as team managers and others helping with scoring and making sure all the event competitors were in the right place at the right time.

The meeting was fiercely competed and as the end of the day progressed all eyes were on the scoring tent to try and get an idea of possible finishing positions and it was close at the top with the first three Squadron’s being separated by only 10 points and at the end of the day and presented with The Charlesworth Bowl as overall Squadron Champions were 863 (Thurston) with 122 points, closely followed by 222 (Broadlands) on 113 and 301 (Bury St Edmunds) Sqn on 112 points.

The Wing also had some good success with those selected to go to Region Athletic meeting held in Leicester and they have now progressed on to the Corps Championships, good luck to them all.
 

Image: Female Sports Cadet of the Year – CWO S Bromley 2470 (Sudbury) Sqn being presented by Wg Cdr David Miller

by: Flt Lt Jason Robinson RAF VR(T) Wing MCO - N&S Wg

26 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Henlow Hits The Premier League

Cadets from 2482 (Henlow) Sqn recently assisted with the organisation and running of Derwent Lower School's football tournament.

Football teams from around Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire descended on Derwent Lower School in Henlow for a football tournament which was the first to be hosted by the school. Over 200 players and spectators attended the event which ran smoothly thanks to the organisation from the school and the assistance of the Henlow cadets who managed to meet Andy Johnsen, Queens Park Rangers striker and England capped premiership football player.

Cdt Tom Nixon (15) said: “The players and staff and our cadets have really enjoyed the event, it has been a great success and we have been invited to come back and assist again in future events at the school. What a bonus meeting Andy Johnsen from Queens Park Rangers, a great surprise."

Mr Kevin Smith, the Derwent Football team manager, added: “The football team and school approached Henlow Air cadets to see if they could assist with this community project and they have been so supportive, we have had several meetings with Plt Off Dave Robinson and his staff from 2482 squadron. We would not have been able to run this event without the help of the air cadets, we have forged a bond which will most definitely extend into other future events and we will be inviting them back. A massive massive thank you to Henlow Air Cadets.”

by: Plt Off Dave Robinson RAF VR(T) OiC 2482 (Henlow) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

24 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Success at Wing & Region Sports
A Cadets Tale
 

My name is Ben Simpson and I am a member of 198 (Hinckley) Sqn, part of Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing which in turn, is part of the Central and East Region.

One of the sports activities is athletics, where you are able to complete in all the different track and field events. I recently completed in the Wing athletics competition, held at the Solihull Sports Centre, and it was here that I represented my squadron at Wing level, competing against the other squadrons in my wing. I narrowly missed out on a medal in both 100m sprint and the discus events, however I was successful in winning a silver medal for the squadron in the 200m sprint.

Following this success I was selected to represent Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing in the Regional competition held at Saffron Lane Sports Stadium in Leicester, here I also won a silver but for the 4x100m relay.

Both of my silver medals were presented to me by my Commanding Officer, Flt Lt Chris Parry, at my squadron. It was fantastic and an honour to represent both my squadron and wing, and to get medals was even better, something that I can hope to improve on for next year.

by: Cdt Ben Simpson 198 (Hinckley) Sqn - W&B Wg

20 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Small Team - Big Results

The Norfolk and Suffolk Wing Inter-Squadron athletics competition recently held at the Bury St Edmunds Sports Centre saw 42F (King’s Lynn) Sqn gain a number of Gold Medals.

Their team of six was only a quarter the size of some of the other 26 teams competing but their enthusiasm and determination meant that they still managed to gain an impressive 4 Gold, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze medal.

Medal winners were Cdt Katie Cook (17), 800 metres - Gold medal and Long Jump - Silver medal. Cdt Luke Blatch (16), Javelin - Gold medal. Cdt Cpl Richard Mohan (15), Long Jump - Gold medal and 100 metres - Silver medal. Cdt Cpl Jack Savage (15), 400 metres – Gold medal.

Following on from the Wing inter-squadron competition the team’s performance ensured that Cdt Cpl Mohan plus Cdts Cook and Blatch were selected for the team to represent Norfolk and Suffolk Wing in the Central and East Region inter Wing athletics competition at Leicester on 10th June.

Here Cdt Blatch won Silver in the Javelin, Cdt Cook took Bronze in the 800 metres and Cdt Cpl Mohan also gained a Bronze in the Long Jump. These results, together with the raft of further medals won by the rest of the Norfolk and Suffolk team ensured that the team was placed third in the inter Wing competition.

Back at the Lynn Squadrons HQ the team were proud to show off their medals to everyone. Whilst addressing the squadron the CO, Flt Lt Pauline Petch, said: “Having only been able, due to a number of other commitments, to field such a small team at the Wing athletics it is a real credit to you that you pulled out all the stops and not only gained four Gold there but your results were deemed worthy enough for three of you to go on and represent not only 42F but also the Wing at the Region competition. Well done to all of you.”

Image: Medal winners proudly show them off.

Article & Image by: Mike Lister Sqn MCO 42F (King’s Lynn) Sqn - N&S Wg

14 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Inter-Wing Athletics

Cadets from Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing travelled to the Saffron Road Stadium in Leicester to compete in the Inter-Wing Athletics last Sunday.

Although the weather forecast looked set to be wet, the actual day could not have been more different, warm and sunny.

Twenty two medals were awarded for various track and field events during the day, and a new record was set by Cdt Hutchinson in the 1500metres for the senior girls. Several cadets will go on to represent the Region at Corps level shortly.

The Wing Team were presented with their certificates and Wing Blues following the athletics by the Officer Commanding Beds & Cambs Wing, Wg Cdr Paul Bower. All cadets are to be congratulated on their efforts and achievements throughout the day, with high hopes from the team of a trophy win next year.

Image: The Wing Team

by: Flt Lt Margaret Bell RAF VR(T) Wing MCO B&C Wg

14 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Athletics Success Again For 864

Two cadets from 864 (Watton) Sqn who earlier in the month were selected to represent the Wing at the Regional Athletics Meeting, attended the event in Leicester last weekend.

Cdt Anscombe represented Norfolk & Suffolk Wing at Javelin and managed an impressive 3rd place. Whilst Cdt Noble represented the Wing in the 200m event and finished in first place and will go onto represent the Region in the same event.

Cadet Nobel said: “I’m really pleased to have done so well, it was a really good day for all who attended, and I am so happy to represent the squadron this way.”

Both cadets returned to the squadron parade night on Monday with news of their success, sporting their medals, and were congratulated by cadets and staff with a round of applause.
 

Image: Cdts Anscombe & Noble with their Region medals

by CI Daniel Fishlock Sqn MCO 864 (Watton) Sqn - N&S Wg
 

14 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Inter Wing Athletics Championships

On Sunday the 10th June Cdt Sgt Jack Moore and Cdt Cpl Sophie Leigh-Pearson of 356 (Felixstowe) Sqn travelled to the Regional Inter Wing Athletics Championships, representing Norfolk & Suffolk Wing. Their day began at 5am, travelling to Bury St Edmunds for the coach, sleeping and snoring on the journey to the Leicester Stadium.

Sgt Moore said: “Our events did not start until the middle of the day, so we were giving our wing the best support and the loudest cheers. As I had injured my hand playing football I did not think I would do that well. However, I came 2nd in the Discus out of six competitors gaining the ‘Silver’ Medal.”

Cpl Leigh-Pearson said: “My race, the 200m, did not start until after lunch, so I was getting more and more nervous about it. Race time arrived and I came 2nd gaining the ‘Silver’ Medal. My relay race was one of the last races and we were coming last out of six until the third leg where we moved up to first position and won the 'Gold’ Medal.”

Overall, Norfolk and Suffolk Wing came 3rd in the Central & Eastern Region and as a Wing we won 46 medals and the ‘Class E Girls’ (16yrs+) won their class. Both of us will be attending the Corps competition on the 30th June – Wish us Luck….

Image: Cdt Sgt Jack Moore & Cpl Cpl Sophie Leigh-Pearson with their Medals

by: Cdt Sgt Jack Moore 356 (Felixstowe) Sqn - N&S Wg

13 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadet Record Smashed!

Sunday 10th June saw Cdt Katie Hutchinson from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn smash the regional record for the fastest 1500 meters at the Central & East Regional Athletic Championships.

The tournament, held in Leicester where cadets from the six wings across the region were blessed with sunshine and warm weather, unlike the wing qualifiers, held in April, which were a complete wash out with torrential rain. However, the weather did not stop Katie Hutchinson from powering her way to the regional event.

Representing Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing, Cdt Hutchinson (16) broke the current record, crossing the finish line in 5.02 minutes.

Cdt Hutchinson is fast becoming a sporting asset to Peterborough Squadron, Katie is always keen to represent her Squadron in the various Air Cadet sporting activities. She has represented the Squadron, the Wing, Central & East Region and now the Corps itself in both cross country and athletics.

She said: "It is such an achievement to break the record and to represent both my squadron and the wing in this weekend’s athletics tournament. I did not set out to break any records, I just gave it 110% and focused on finishing as quickly as possible – to beat the previous record is wonderful."

Image: Katie Hutchinson proudly displaying her medals from the athletics event

by: Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

13 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

More Medals For Cambridge Cadets

Four cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have represented Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at the Central and East Region annual athletics meeting held recently in Leicester.

CWO Jess Bradshaw, Cdt Sgt George Metcalfe, Cdt Cpl Ellie Murray and Cdt Lily Grimshaw were selected after the Squadrons recent success at the Wing athletics meeting which saw the Squadron win twenty medals along with trophies for the senior girls age group, overall girls and overall competition winners.

During the event Cdt Cpl Ellie Murray won Bronze and Silver medals in the 100 meters and 200 meters whilst Cdt Lily Grimshaw won a Bronze medal in the 4 x 100 meter relay.

Cdt Cpl Ellie Murray, the current holder of the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing best female sports cadet trophy said: “The cadets from the squadron worked hard along with other members of the wing to earn their Wing Blues.”

Flt Lt Richard Slack added: “Sport plays an important part of life with the Air Cadets, not only does it help fitness but improves communication, leadership and teamwork by working together for a common aim.”

Image: Cdt Sgt George Metcalfe, Cdt Lily Grimshaw, Cdt Cpl Ellie Murray and CWO Jess Bradshaw at the Region athletics tournament.

by: Fg Off Chris Cox RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

12 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Silver Medal Winners at St Neots

Two cadets from 2500 (St Neots) Sqn took part in the Inter-Wing Athletics held at the weekend at the Saffron Road Stadium in Leicester. Representing their Wing they both walked away with Silver Medals.

Cdt Sgt George Watson was awarded a Silver in the High Jump and Cdt Cpl Jack Rogers a Silver in the 200metres event. Congratulations to them both.

The Annual event sees cadets from all over the Region representing their Wings in various track and field events during the day to vie for points for their particular Wing.

by: Flt Lt Margaret Bell RAF VR(T) Wing MCO B&C Wg

12 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Medals Galore

It was a mini Olympics for the cadets of 2160 (Sleaford) Sqn at the recent Trent Wing Athletics competition. With a haul of four Gold, five Silver and six Bronze medals, the young team finished joint second in the overall trophy competition out of the thirty Squadrons in Trent Wing.

On one of the hottest days of the year so far they battled against many teams containing far more experienced athletes than themselves. Undaunted, they pulled off some stunning performances with Cdt Sam Daffey winning Gold in the blue ribbon event, the junior girls 100 metres. Sam followed this up with a further Gold in the Javelin, Silver in the Long jump and a Bronze in the 4 x 100metres relay.

Not to be out done by the youngsters, the 'grand old man' of the team, CWO Ryan Brindley (18), had a stunning victory in the junior men’s long jump. This was to be Ryan’s last appearance for the Sleaford team as he joins the RAF in August.

As a fitting finale for Ryan’s ATC Athletics career he will be joining a number of his fellow ‘Sleafordians’ in the Trent Wing Athletics team to compete in the Central & East Regional championships at Leicester this month.

Flt Lt Mel Walker OC 2160 said of the team: “I really could not have asked more of the team, they ran, jumped and threw like heroes. I am very pleased for those who won medals in their events but am equally proud of those who gave their all for no other reward than supporting the team effort.”

Image: Medallists all

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

07 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sporting Success For Nuneaton Cadets

Cadets from 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn have Run, Jumped and Thrown their way into medal winning places in the recent Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing athletics championships.

The 16 strong team of cadets from were up against stiff competition from cadets of 26 other Air Cadet units in both track and field events and did extremely well to come home with an impressive haul of no less than; three Gold, one Silver and four Bronze medals.

Flt Lt Paul Hincks Officer Commanding Nuneaton Squadron said: “I am so proud of the effort put in by all our cadets both those who won medals and those who didn't. Everyone in the team did their very best for the Squadron. We may not have come home with any of the major trophies this year but we certainly gave the opposition a good run for their money.”

Images: 121 (Nuneaton) Sqn 2012 Athletics Team

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

03 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Competing For The Lush Cup

During May 759 (Beccles) Sqn went to Bury with 11 cadets, all taking part in the Wings athletics tournament.

The cadets all tried their hardest and participated in events such as high jump, long jump, javelin, discuss, shot put and track events. The senior girls category put forward a relay team and they all ran to represent the squadron.

Cdt Cpl Sophie McGregor said: “Athletics this year was a very challenging and competitive event. The eleven cadets that took part did extremely well representing the squadron. I enjoyed athletics this year, trying out new events was interesting however, I wish to do better next year.”

Overall the squadron came third in the competition for the 'Overall Boys Small Squadron trophy' (The Lush Cup). Cdt FS Kyl Klingsick and Cdt Cpl Liam Klingsick both came away with medals. A huge well done to all those that participated in the day.

by: Flight Sergeant Chloe Smithson Sqn MCO 759 (Beccles) Sqn - N&S Wg
 

01 Jun 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Ebony's Bronzes
 

On Sunday 27th May 2012, 10 cadets from 1300 (Sutton-in-Ashfield) Sqn attended the Trent Wing Athletics Championships at Quibell Park, Scunthorpe.

Cdt Cpl Liam Chamberlain and Cdts Andrew Burton-Johnson, Ross Challands, Ebony Smith, Joe Stocks, Eleanor Rowarth, Ben Allen, Josh Middleton, Olivia Jeffery and Jack Philbin along with Staff, Flt Lt Roxanne Woodburn, Sgt Kirsty Newton (ATC) and CI Luke Chadburn attended the all day event. Cdt Ebony Smith (16) won 2 Bronze medals in the Senior Girls category in Long Jump and Shot Putt events.

Flt Lt Woodburn, said: “The cadets all had a fantastic day and she was proud of Ebony for winning 2 bronze medals. Congratulations Ebony and great effort to everyone who attended."

by: WO Amanda Coleman (ATC) Sqn MCO 1300 (Sutton-in-Ashfield) Sqn - Trent Wg
 

30 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Lucky '13' For Derby Cadets

For the THIRTEENTH Year in succession 126 (City of Derby) Squadron ran away with Overall first place at the South & East Midlands Athletics Championships.

In blustery and unseasonable cool weather, Derby cadets beat of stiff competition to take home the winner’s trophy which they have made very much their own.

The quality of the wing’s athletes now spans the wing and only two of the class trophies will adorn 126’s trophy cabinet, the other three trophies were shared between 1211 (Swadlincote), 1359 (Beeston) and 2070(Glenfield) Sqns. Even in the difficult conditions, FOURTEEN of the wing’s track and field records across all classes were smashed.

“With results like this in the not ideal conditions, bodes well for the Wing’s continuing success in the forthcoming Region Championships,” said the Wing's Sports Officer, Flt Lt Lynda Waplington.

by: Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) Wing MCO SEM Wg
 

30 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Kettering Gets Into the Olympic Spirit

1101 (Kettering) Sqn cadets are getting into the Olympic spirit after achieving sporting glory when they took part in the Wing Athletics Competition and beat off competition from cadets across the South and East Midlands to be ranked 5th out of 29 competing Squadrons.

Cdt Lauren Mehmet scooped a special prize and was awarded the Best Overall Female Trophy after finishing first in the 200m and 1500m runs and the long jump.

Squadron commanding officer, Flt Lt Guy Slack, said: “I am absolutely delighted that our cadets have been able to showcase their sporting talents in this prestigious competition. We work hard to allow our cadets to develop their sporting skills and this achievement is testament to that. My congratulations go out to Cadet Mehmet who once again has shown she has a real passion and skill for sports.”

by: Abi Goldson Sqn MCO 1101 (Kettering) Sqn - SEM Wg

28 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Athletic Success for Wymondham Cadets

1986 (Wymondham) Sqn attended the Norfolk and Suffolk Wing Inter Squadron Athletics Event held at Bury St Edmunds Sports Arena on Sunday 20 May 2012.

The team was made up of nine cadets who each participated in two events, and were delighted to achieve two Gold Medals, one Silver medal and 4 Bronze medals. Cdt Cpl Welstead, who was the team manager for the day, commented: "That the determination and enthusiasm of the team was fantastic.”

The squadron have since been advised that three members of the team have been chosen to represent the Wing on 10 June 2012 at the Regional Athletics Event due to be held at Leicester.

by: Heather Brown Sqn MCO 1986 (Wymondham) Sqn - N&S Wg
 

26 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Watton Cadets in Athletics Success

Last weekend a team of cadets from 864 (Watton) Sqn travelled to bury St Edmunds to take part in the Norfolk and Suffolk wing athletics competition.

Watton’s 'Junior Girls' team did really well and came first in the Junior Girls competition, all received medals. The 'Girls Team' finished second overall out of all the squadrons that turned up to compete.

Cdt Nobel said: “I’m so pleased with the results we got, it was a great result for the girls and the squadron, and it’s great to come away with medals and a trophy it makes all our training worthwhile.”

Two members of the team impressed the wing staff with their efforts and they have been selected to try out for the Inter-Wing Athletics Competition.

by: Daniel Fishlock Sqn MCO 864 (Watton) Sqn - N&S Wg

24 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sporting Success For Thurston

Cadets from 863 (Thurston) Sqn won 18 individual medals and five trophies at the annual inter-squadron athletics competition on May 20th.

Thurston cadets competed against 28 other squadrons in Norfolk and Suffolk Wing at the athletics arena at Bury St Edmunds Sports Centre, covering both track and field events in a full day of heats and finals. Once again, Thurston Squadron achieved enviable success, winning nine gold, five silver and four bronze medals.

The day culminated in a final parade in full uniform, where the squadron were once again awarded five trophies - the Freestone Shield (best Youth Boys team); the Girls Shield (best Junior Girls team); the Ipswich Officers Cup (Individual Boys champion, awarded to Cdt Cpl Adam Cripps); the Commanding Officers Plate, (1500m Junior Mens champion, again awarded to Cdt Cpl Cripps); and the Charlesworth Bowl (for the overall champion squadron).

Thurston cadets came a close second for the Bantoft Cup (Junior Mens team), the Girls Shield (overall girls champion) and the Green Cup (overall boys champion). The team organiser, CI Jean Yates, said: ”I am extremely proud of all the cadets who took part today; they all put in a fantastic effort and achieved brilliant results.”
 

Image: Cdt Bronwyn Jacobs receiving trophy from Wg Cdr David Miller

by: CI Claire Marks Sqn MCO 863 (Thurston) Sqn - N&S Wg
 

23 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

13 Is Not Unlucky For Derby Cadets

126 (City of Derby) Sqn has won the South & East Midlands Wing Athletics competition for the 13th consecutive year. 126 Squadron is the only unit to have ever won the Wing Athletics competition since the Wing was formed in 1999.

The competition took place on Sunday 20th May at Saffron Lane Athletics Stadium in Leicester. Despite a cold wind, the cadets from Derby delivered outstanding results on the track and field and won the competition by 79 points. As well as walking away with the overall title, the squadron won the Girls and Junior Men trophies.

Facing stiff competition from 1211 (Swadlincote) and 1359 (Beeston) SqnS, the Derby team pulled off their best ever performance. The field events brought in vital points with cadets performing exceptionally well in the High Jump, Shot and Discus.

Cdt Sgt Adele Gibb won the High Jump in the Junior Women category. She said: “The competition this year was hard. There were a lot of good athletes around and lots of Wing records were broken. I was pleased with my performance.”

The relay teams from 126 Squadron put on a fantastic display of teamwork, winning the relays in 3 out of the 5 age groups. The team believe their victory was not just down to training but dedication, determination and above all a team spirit that is unique to Derby.

Sgt Elodie Marsh (ATC), Sports Officer at Derby Squadron said: “Our cadets went to Leicester to win the competition. Second place was not good enough for them. Every single cadet is proud of Derby’s sporting achievements and didn’t want to let the squadron down. On the day they pulled together, produced some outstanding results and came away with a historic victory.”

by: Fg Off Jackie Glover RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 126 (City of Derby) Sqn - SEM Wg
 

22 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

2028's Success At Wing Athletics

On the 6th May 2012 cadets from 2028 (Southam) Sqn travelled to Solihull for the Wing Athletics Trials at Tudor Grange Sports Centre. Expectations were high as not only were cadets participating who had won medals in previous years but also new and eager cadets who wanted to do well.

The squadron was not be disappointed as the 16 cadets came home with 5 Gold Medals from the Shot Put, Long Jump, 100 meters and Discus. 2028 also gained Silver in the High Jump, Discus and Javelin with a further Bronze Medal in the Discus.

Previous cadets who have always done well for the squadron and Wing were CWO Brown, Cdt Sgts Caves & Mann and Cdt Cpl Colvin who all came back with Gold Medals with Cdt Cpl Justice winning Silver. Newcomers Cdt’s Bishop and Barley Morey also gained Gold and Silver respectively in their events. The Girls came in 2nd overall in the Junior Women Competition.

CWO Brown, Sgt Caves, Sgt Mann, Cpl Colvin, Cdts Bishop Barley Morey will now travel with the Wing Athletics Team to Leicester on the 10th June 2012. Flt Lt Daryll Moreton, Commanding Officer of 2028 Squadron commented after the event: “The cadets regularly do well at the Wing Athletics and to get 6 of them nominated to represent the Wing at Region is excellent. Every cadet who took part should be proud of themselves; they all gave 100%.”

Image by Cdt Sgt Mann

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

21 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sandy's Athletics Success

Cadets from 22 (Sandy) Sqn joined cadets from across Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire to brave the weather at this year’s Annual Wing athletics competition.

Despite the cold and wet conditions, four cadets from the squadron received medals, including three silver medals, and one gold medal, despite a number of the events being cancelled due to the weather.

Cdt Cpl Lauren Barton (15) received gold in the Class E Junior Women’s high jump, and has been selected to represent Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire wing at the regional competition.

Cadets who received silver medals were Cdt Cpl William Clubb (15) in the Class B Youths 200 metres, Cdt Callan Whitbread (14) in the Class A Boys 1500 metres, and Cdt Alfie Adamson-Leggett (13) in the Class A Boys long jump.

Cpl Lauren Barton said of the day: “A big well done to all the cadets who turned up for athletics, it was a good effort from everyone despite the rain. The medals were well deserved.”

by: CI Jeffrey Henshaw Sqn MCO 22 (Sandy) Sqn - B&C Wg

19 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

485 At the Wing Football and Netball Championships

Sunday 13th May saw a total of 18 cadets from 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn accompany Flt Lt Simon Jennings to the Stockland Green Leisure Centre in Erdington to take part in the annual football and netball championships. For the first time in many years the Sqn was able to field a full netball team and they were also able to choose from 10 cadets for the senior and junior football teams.

The senior team were the first up; indeed theirs was the first match of the day. 485 Sqn had been drawn against 2030 (Elmdon & Yardley) Sqn and things were looking good when it appeared that 2030 Sqn only had 4 players, however, it was soon to prove a false hope as the four that were playing were very good players indeed! Despite a good performance from 485, the cadets from 2030 came out victors by 4-2.

Next up was the junior team and they had been given a bye into the second round and were drawn against 194 (BSA) Sqn who had already played a game and won against 1459 (Heart of England) Sqn. The cadets from 194 Sqn overpowered the team from 485 Sqn in the first half and it was 3-0 to 194 when the whistle was blown. The 485 cadets made some changes at half time and these seemed to work, although still losing the overall game 4-2.

Lastly, the netball team were called on to court and again they faced a very strong team again from 194 Sqn. The girls from 194 Sqn raced into a 4-0 lead before the 485 girls grabbed two back and it was 4-2 at half-time. However, the girls from 194 Sqn powered on into the second round winning the game 8-4.

Flt Lt Simon Jennings, OC 485 Commented “Firstly, I want to say a big thank you to all the cadets for coming along to the championships today. A total of 18 cadets is absolutely fantastic for a sqn of our size and to be able to field a full netball team for the first time in many years shows the great team spirit the cadets are creating at the Sqn. Although we didn’t progress in any of the competitions, the way that everybody worked together on the day shows that these cadets are going places”.

by: Flt Lt Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) OC 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

13 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Athletics Medals for 485

Sunday 6th May saw 13 cadets travel from 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn to the Tudor Grange Athletics stadium in Solihull to take part in the annual Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing Athletics championships.

The cadets were straight into competition when they arrived at the stadium and it wasn’t long before Cdt Emily Hegenbarth was winning bronze in the javelin competition, a fantastic result for her. This spurred the rest of the team on Cdt Courtney Robinson was making her way through the heats of the 200m to reach the final.

Cdt Cpl Stacie Williams, now an old hand at these championships, was again amongst the medals as he firstly took Gold in the Discuss competition and then Silver in the shot-put. Cpl Williams will once again represent the Wing at the regional championships to be held on 10th June in Leicester. To cap a great day off, Cdt Cpl Hayden Hitchman took bronze in the 1500m competition, the longest distance run on the day.

Flt Lt Simon Jennings, OC 485 Sqn commented: “Although our numbers were slightly down on last year’s competition to come away with four medals is a great achievement and I would personally like to thank all those cadets who made the effort on the day, particularly those who came away with the medals. It’s fantastic for our Sqn that once again we will be sending cadets to represent our Wing in the regional finals.”

by: Flt Lt Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) OC 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

13 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Athletics Success for 163

The cadets of 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn are celebrating their recent successes at the Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing Athletics Championships last weekend.

The team of 24 cadets, 7 girls and 17 boys, was the largest team 163 has entered in recent years and the commitment certainly paid off. Having arranged a training session to ensure the strongest team was entered in as many events as possible, Team 163 was motivated and ready for the competition.

The squadron won a total of 13 individual medals with Golds for Cdt Lammas in the high jump at her first athletics competition and in the javelin and 1500 metres for CWO Tabram, her last. The atmosphere around the team was positive all day and when the final results were announced,

Officer Commanding Flt Lt Les Vile said: “I thought the new kit looked great and the cadets have worked hard bag-packing to raise the funds for it. Wearing the Squadron kit really added to the growing spirit that 163 Squadron have, and I was delighted that the cadets came away with two trophies.”

by: Flt Lt Mandy Sinfield RAF VR(T) 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

13 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Clouds with Bronze, Silver and Gold Linings

On Sunday 29th April 2012, twenty one cadets from 134 (Bedford) Sqn competed in the annual Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing Athletics Competition, held this year at the Bedford International Athletics Stadium. Twenty nine squadrons from across the wing attended; this meant that every event was going to be hotly contested. Last year the team achieved a respectable haul of medals and the team was determined to return with more medals and silverware this year.
 

The day consisted of various track and field events, but the weather was against the competitors from the start, with torrential rain and standing water on the track. This didn’t faze the cadets at all. The success started early with the Youth 4 X 100 metres relay team winning their heat and qualifying for the final.

The success continued throughout the day with wins including a Bronze medal for Cdts Greg Fawkes in the 400 meters & a Silver in the 1500 meters for Connor Lennox. The outstanding performance of the day was from Cdt Roxanne Bradley, with Gold in the High Jump, Gold in the 800 meters and Silver in the 400 metres. Unfortunately, due to the appalling weather, a number of field events were called off for safety reasons.

The final event of the day was the 4 X 100 meters relay finals. The Junior Boys team consisted of Cadet Nicholls, Cadet Cohen, Cadet Turpin and Cadet Fewkes battled hard and won the Silver. This was followed by the Youth team of Corporals Shawl, Denham, Camino & Cadet Atkinson. They entered the event hopeful of a result, following their success in the heat. Their baton handovers were slick which lead to victory and four well earned Gold medals.

The final tally was 6 Gold, 7 Silver and 3 Bronze medals. The Junior boys’ team came second overall and the Youth boys team came third. Together they contributed to winning the Overall Boys Athletics Shield. The Junior Girls were also victorious & won the team category. Bedford Squadron came second in the overall Wing Champions Cup.

Team manager CI Andy Marshall said: “This is a great success for the squadron; we brought home an impressive haul of medals & silverware. The cadets performed fantastically in terrible weather conditions. The tremendous achievement is down to the hard work, determination and team work, demonstrated by all the cadets on the day.”

by: CI Chris Wiggins Sqn MCO 134 (Bedford) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

02 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Rise to an Olympic Challenge

26 cadets from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn rose to the challenge on Sunday when they were faced with heavy rain and sweeping winds and took part in their own mini Olympic style Athletics tournament to bring home a variety of medals.

The Bedford and Cambridgeshire Wing held its annual athletics competition at the Bedford International Athletics Stadium on Sunday 29th April where both male and female cadets age 13 to 20 participated in a bid to win glory for their squadron and to go on to represent the Wing at the next stage of the competition in June.

Cadets braved the atrocious weather and showed enormous team spirit throughout the day. They were rewarded for their efforts and determination by bringing home a clutch of Gold and Silver medals from both track and field events: Cdt Katie Hutchinson and Cdt Sgt Jess Danells both won Gold in the 1500 & 800 metres respectively, while Cdt Beales, one of the youngest competitors at only 13 years of age won silver in the Girls High Jump.

Not to be outdone the boys struck gold when the team consisting of Cdt FS Rigby, Cdt Sgt Purcell, Cdt Cpls Brown & Hodgkin, romped home to victory in the 4 x 100 metres relay. FS Rigby went on to secure silver in the high jump and Sgt Purcell the Silver in the 400 metres final. As a result the Junior Men’s team secured 1st place overall for their age group and a new trophy for the Squadron. Cdt FS Rigby said: "It was a fantastic result, even more so because of the weather, everybody in the team pulled together to keep our spirits up and to give 100%."

Flt Lt Stephen Dalton Officer Commanding Peterborough Squadron commented after the event: "All I ask is that our cadets try their very best, to come home with so many medals and the Junior Men’s class trophy just adds icing to the cake. They should be extremely proud of what they have achieved today."

Image: Back row Cdt Cpl Hodgkin, Cdt FS Rigby and Cdt Cpl Brown; Middle Row Cdt Beales, Cdt Sgt Danells; Front row Cdt Sgt Purcell

by: Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

02 May 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Athletics Success For Cambridge

As cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn arrived at the Bedford International Athletics Stadium they would have been forgiven for asking if they were in fact there for a swimming competition. The cadets were assembling for the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing annual athletics tournament which sees all the squadrons in the Wing gather together to compete on the track and field.

The cadets competed in a range of track and field events with the squadron winning eleven Bronze, four Silver and five Gold medals in the process. Gold medal winners were Cdt Sgt George Metcalfe in the Men’s 200m, Cdt Cpl Ellie Murray in the Women’s 100m and 200m, Cdts Lily Grimshaw in the Girls 100m and Bella Shallcross in the Women’s 400m.

The squadron was also proud to have been placed second in the Overall Boys competition, first in the Junior Women age group, first in the Overall Girls Competition in addition to winning the competition overall, the last time the squadron claimed such a trophy haul was in 2004. Unfortunately due to the weather conditions the trophies were unable to be presented at the event so will be presented at the Wing Field Weekend being held at RAF Wyton in June.

Staff from the squadron supported the event by helping to run the javelin and discuss field events whilst other staff assisted in lane timings for the track events.

Cdt Lily Grimshaw who won Gold in the 100m, Silver in the Long Jump and Bronze in the 200m said: “I really enjoyed representing the Squadron and was so proud of the medals I won. When we found out about the trophies it was excellent news for the team.”

Flt Lt Richard Slack added: “The cadets have done so well to achieve what they did in the weather conditions, they worked together throughout the day helping and supporting each other.”

Image: The athletics team pose with their medals

by: Fg Off Chris Cox RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

30 Apr 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Hamilton Swims Its Way To Success.

2502 (Hamilton) Sqn introduced a new way of working off those Eggs this Easter Holiday, Swimming!!, when Hamilton squadron hired out the pool at Evington Leisure Centre and took 16 cadets to work off that chocolate and see if they could gain some swimming certificates while that were at it.

It turned out to be a really successful evening with all 16 cadets gaining their basic swimming certificate. 9 of those cadets also then went on to pass their Intermediate certificate. All the cadets were then presented with their certificates on the 16th April.

Cdt Sgt Raikundlia said: “I am glad gained my Intermediate swimming certificate. Having done my basic last year on summer camp at RAF Cosford, I was eager to get the next one up. I can not wait until the next swimming so I can go for my advanced!”

Flt Lt Andy Faulkner said: “It has been many years since the squadron has been swimming. Now we have a local pool willing to help us we will be going more regularly. Hopefully now we might win something at wing swimming!”

by: CI Liz Moore 2502 (Hamilton) Sqn - SEM Wg
 

19 Apr 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Run for Glory

Two cadets from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn displayed their running abilities at the recent Regional Cross Country Championships, when Cdt Sgt Jess Danells and Cdt Katie Hutchinson were both selected to represent the Central and East Region after qualifying during trials held back in January.

Cdt Hutchinson an experienced cross country runner came in 2nd place in her race and also came in 2nd out of the ATC team overall, which is a fabulous achievement. Cdt Sgt Dannells came in 12th place in her race, the under 15’s girls – her participation and placing meant that the team picked up the Silver medal.

With both of the cadets involvement and dedication to the race meant that they helped the Central & East Region win the competition overall to become National Champions. Cdt Sgt Danells said: "I'm very proud to be representing the squadron and also the region in this event."

Image: The Beds and Cambs team with Cdt Hutchinson on the left.

by: Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg

14 Apr 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Triumph at Senior Hockey

The Senior Hockey Team final had to go to penalties to decide the outcome, with the Central & East Region Team being adjudged the overall competition winners.

Held at RAFC Cranwell on Saturday 31st March, the final result was at the end of a close fought competition.

Following the series of games, Air Cadet Organisation Chief of Staff, Gp Capt John Lawlor presented the trophies.

Image: The Central & East Senior Girls Hockey Team celebrating their win

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

31 Mar 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Compete In Sportivate Cup

14 cadets from 863 (Thurston) Sqn competed in the Suffolk Air Cadets Touch Rugby Championship on Friday evening at Stowmarket RFC.

Four teams from Thurston, 301 (Bury St Edmunds), 2470 (Sudbury) and 188 (Ipswich) Sqns competed in the tournament sponsored by Sportivate. They have all been training regularly with qualified Sportivate coaches over recent weeks.

Thurston squadron were awarded the Rugby Core Values trophy, given to the team ‘showing good sportsmanship, respect, discipline, teamwork and increasing the enjoyment of all participants and spectators’ and came third overall.

Cdts Aaron Clarke, Ben Last, Bronwyn Jacobs, Cdt Cpl Chanel Mayes, Cdts Christian Wickam, Hannah Smith, Huw Rees, Katie Spark, Cdt Cpl Stephen Yates, Cdt Kyle Haxell, Cdt Sgt George Mothersole, Cdt Sophie Hunt, and Cdt Cpls Stephen Handleigh & Hugh Williams represented the squadron, competing in three games, plus the finals game.

The tournament was followed by a barbeque and the presentation of awards, and was hailed as a very enjoyable and successful event by all involved.

Image: The Thurston Touch Rugby team

by: CI Claire Marks Sqn MCO 863 (Thurston) Sqn - N&S Wg
 

21 Mar 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cold Cross Country at Wittering

0800 hours, Sunday morning, weather, freezing cold! 13 cadets from 1181 (Syston) Sqn met to run the Inter-Squadron cross country competition at RAF Wittering.

The mood was a little subdued, (because of the cold conditions!). However, on arrival at RAF Wittering the mood soon lifted, but they still refused to leave the warmth of the bus until they absolutely had too!

The cadets did eventually consent to leave the relative warmth of the mini bus to 'warm up' in readiness for the competition to begin. Eventually, Flt Lt Waplington started the first race! Off they went. They all put in a fantastic effort. However, three of the cadets still had enough energy to do some football training!

Once all the races had been completed, the cadets changed into their wedgewood blue uniforms in readiness for Final Parade. We all waited with baited breath! The cadets of 1181 Sqn finished 11th out of 29! Fantastic!

A much happier group of cadets returned to Syston. Two of them had also been selected for the Wing Football team! a very good day! Congratulations and thank you to all of the cadets who took part.

by: CI Diane Reeves 1181 (Syston) Sqn - SEM Wg

18 Mar 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cross-Country Champions

As the day of the Wing Cross Country Competition  arrived the cadets of 222 (Broadlands) Sqn turned up at RAF Barnham to defend the cross-country trophies that they had won the previous year.

With FS’s (ATC) Powley and Brand, CI Frapwell and the squadrons new sports officer CI Allen overseeing the Broadlands squadron hopefuls, they stood on the sunny but bitterly cold start/finish line watching their athletes run.

The junior boys started and were followed by the junior girls. As the senior boys lined up to leave the junior boys began to cross the line with 3 cadets coming in the top 6 with Cdt Thomas Dade in first place. The senior men left and the senior girls lined up to leave as the junior girls began to filter in with Broadlands Cdt Connie Wardale finishing second.

The senior girls left and the men lined up to leave. As they left the senior girls came in with Broadlands Cdt Cpl Abi Simpson coming in second place. As all competitors came in, the 2 runners in the men’s category came in at 4 & 5 to give Broadlands squadron a real chance of retaining several of the trophies they were defending.

As the results were calculated the cadets took the opportunity to get dressed into their warmer attire and formed up into their squadrons to hear the results. 222 (Broadlands) squadron were the winners of the junior boys and senior girls categories and were second place in the junior girls and senior boys categories which meant that the squadron'a cadets had retained the overall winners of the wing cross country trophy!

The trophy was presented to Cdt FS Sophie Frapwell to the elation and pride of the whole squadron. All in all it had been another fantastic day for all involved in the running and attending of the squadron.

Image: The successful Broadlands Squadron team

by: CI Sarah Batch Sqn MCO 222 (Broadlands) Sqn - N&S Wg

16 Mar 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cadets Run For Glory!

115 (Peterborough) Sqn are flying high after two female cadets ran their way into top places at the Region Cross Country race at the weekend.

Cdt Sgt Jess Dannells and Cdt Katie Hutchinson sped their way around the 3.5 mile course on Sunday 4th March whilst representing Beds and Cambs Wing. The race was held in very wet conditions at Bassingbourne Barracks.

Cdt Sgt Jess Dannells was awarded 3rd place in her age category – Senior Girls. Cdt Katie Hutchinson has been asked to represent the Region in the Junior Girls category and run in the Corps Cross Country race to be held at RAFC Cranwell on 24th March.

Cdt Katie Hutchinson was some 6 minutes faster than her counterparts in the race, giving high hopes for the Corps race at the end of March. She said: "I'm very excited to be representing the Region at the end of March and will ensure that I'm in excellent condition both mentally and physically, ready for the race and to do my squadron proud!"

Image: The girls with their certificates for participating in Sundays race.

by: Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

11 Mar 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Kettering Cadets Sprint Ahead

Cadets from 1101 (Kettering & District) Sqn have achieved sporting glory after being selected to run for the Region in a prestigious cross country competition.

A group of 11 cadets from the Northampton Road squadron have taken part in the South and East Midlands Wing cross country competition. During the competition, held at RAF Wittering, 29 squadrons from across the Wing took part. Kettering squadron scored highly and were ranked 10th in the competition.

During the race, Cdts Lauren and Ethan Mehmet, were steps ahead and were selected to run for the Wing in the Region competition.

Squadron Commanding Officer, Flt Lt Guy Slack, said: “We are absolutely delighted that two of our cadets will now represent the wing in their chosen sport. This achievement only goes to highlight their hard work and dedication – they are a credit to Kettering.”

Image: Cdt Lauren Mehmet strides to victory

by: Abi Goldson Sqn MCO 1101 (Kettering) Sqn - SEM Wg
 

05 Mar 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Fourth Year 'Running' Success

For the fourth Year in succession South & East Midlands Wing fought off teams from the five other Wings to win the Central & East Region Cross-Country Championships,
 

In pouring rain and freezing wind, the Wing’s cadets stormed home taking all the trophies for the male categories and were runners up in the female classes.

The Wing won the hotly contested competition by twenty five points, beating Trent Wing into second place. “It was a tough competition for the cadets with the conditions making it even more of a challenge, a challenge that the cadets rose to and they did a magnificent job fending off the competition,” said Wing Sports Officer, Flt Lt Lynda Waplington,

Standing in for the Regional Commandant, Wg Cdr Nigel Dickinson on presenting the Trophies, paid tribute to all the cadets who took part in such atrocious conditions. He also thanked all the officials and staff who have, once again, given up their valuable time to ensure the event could be run.

The best of the runners from this competition will go forward to represent the Region in the Corps Championships.

Image: the winning team and supporting staff with the trophies

by: Flt Lt Allan Munns RAF VR(T) Wing MCO - SEM Wg

05 Mar 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

485 Cadets Are in the Trophies!

It was an early start on Sunday 26th February for two cadets from 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn. Cdt’s Hayden Hitchman and Zak Woolley had been selected to play for the Wing Senior Football team at RAFC Cranwell.

The team were soon playing in the Regional competition against the other five wings, and at the end of the day the Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing came out on top and were crowned as the Central and East Regional champions.

Sqn Ldr Pat McCarroll, Wing Sports Officer visited 485 Sqn and showed off the regional shield, and he also presented them with their Wing Blues and gold medals.

Flt Lt Simon Jennings, OC 485 Sqn commented: “To be selected to play for a Wing sports team is a great achievement and to then win a regional competition is fantastic. Cdt’s Hitchman and Woolley regularly take part in all sports for our squadron and these are not the first wing blues that they have won. The whole squadron would like to pass on their congratulations to them both.”

Flt Lt Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) OC 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn - W&B Wg

01 Mar 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Norfolk & Suffolk Squadrons Battle It Out

It was a sunny Sunday morning at RAF Barnham Camp for this years Wing Cross Country Championships when squadrons from around Norfolk & Suffolk descended on the Camp to battle against their peers around the gruelling 3.5 mile course with the hope of a medal and team trophy at the end.

The event was broken down into 3 age groups for males and 2 for females, all starting 15 minutes apart under the supervision of the race marshal and course designer, David Cripps. It was good to see so many cadets participating and representing their squadrons with the hope of doing well and gaining selection to represent the wing on the 4 March 2012 at RAFC Cranwell.

As the results stared to come in and it was going well with what looked like a clear winner. 222 (Broadlands) Sqn was doing very well with a 1st place finish in the Boys, Junior Girls and Senior Girls events and a 2nd place in the Youths event. This was enough to give them a 1st Place overall making them 2012 Wing Champions. In the overall event 301 (Bury St Edmunds) came 2nd with 864 (Watton) 3rd and 469 (Lowestoft) Sqns in 4th place.

The day came to a close with the medals and trophies being presented by Wg Cdr David Miller, OC Norfolk & Suffolk Wing. Wg Cdr Miller congratulated everyone for taking part and making it such a great event, he also wished the individuals winners well in representing the Wing at RAF Cranwell and was looking forward to hearing of their success.

by Flt Lt Jason Robinson RAF VR(T) Wing MCO - N&S Wg
 

26 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Junior Rugby Team Pipped in Final

Eighteen cadets from Norfolk & Suffolk Wing recently took part in the Inter-Wing Junior Rugby Tournament at RAF Brampton. All cadets were under 16 years of age and had been selected following the Wing Sports Trials held at RAF Honington on the 15th January.

The team played 5 other sides from Central & East Region, South & East Midlands, Warwickshire & Birmingham, Trent, Hearts & Bucks and Beds & Cambs Wings in a round robin tournament, each game lasting 15 minutes.

The team played exceptionally well with 3 wins in a row against Beds & Cambs, Warwickshire & Birmingham and South & East Midlands Wings, the pressure was certainly on in the next game against Trent Wing who proved more organised and the team ended up narrowly loosing the game.

This left all to play for in the final game against Hearts & Bucks who were unbeaten in the tournament. To win the competition the team needed to beat them by 30 points and to secure second place and the Silver medal, had to at least get a draw. After a very hard fought game with physical tackles, darting runs and daring try line defending the Wing Team held the tournament winners to a draw to secure the runners up spot.

This was a courageous performance by the team who had dusted themselves down following defeat to snatch the point needed to gain the runners up spot and silver medal for their efforts. This was a significantly better performance than last years fixture in which the wing finished last. Well done to all involved.

Thanks from the team to the rugby coaches, Plt Off Chris Barrett, CI Tim Wright & Cdt Sgt Aaron Matthews from 2356 (Caister) Sqn.

Image: N&S Junior Rugby Team with Staff

by: Flt Lt Jason Robinson RAF VR(T) Wing MCO N&S Wg
 

21 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cross Country Success for 163

Last Sunday, 21 cadets from 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn braved the cold weather to attend the Wing Cross Country Championships.

The cadets had decided to train for the event this year and had put in some worthwhile training sessions during the last month, demonstrating a fantastic commitment to be the best they could on the day.

Throughout the competition there was a great display of 163 team spirit and the cadets competing in each age category were supported and encouraged by the rest of the Squadron and every cadet gave 100% and could be duly proud of their efforts.

There were individual successes for the girls with Cdt Messam winning the junior girls race followed by Cdt Lammas finishing second and for the senior girls CWO Tabram was the clear winner with Cdt Sgt Messam finishing second. These four girls have all been selected to represent Warwickshire & Birmingham Wing at the Regional Championships in March. The best placed male cadets were Cdt Deol finishing 7th in the junior boys race and Cdt FS Dale finishing 7th in the senior boys race.

After the presentation of the individual medals by Sqn Ldr Mumford, the team results were announced and 163 were proud to achieve their best results ever, with the junior boys finishing 2nd overall, the intermediate boys finishing 3rd overall and the Senior Girls winning their competition and retaining the trophy for the 3rd year running.

Officer Commanding 163 Sqn, Flt Lt Les Vile said: “I am really proud of the efforts of each cadet and their commitment to the squadron.”

by: Mandy Sinfield Sqn MCO 163 (Coventry Phoenix) Sqn - W&B Wg

21 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Thurston Win Medals At Cross Country

Two cadets from 863 (Thurston) Sqn won medals at the annual Norfolk and Suffolk Wing inter-squadron cross country championships on Sunday 19th February.

Cadets from 29 squadrons across Norfolk and Suffolk ran the three and a half mile course around RAF Barnham, competing to represent Norfolk and Suffolk Wing at the inter-wing competition to be held at RAF Cranwell in two weeks’ time.

The cadets were split into five categories; Boys, Youths, Junior Men, Junior Girls, and Senior Girls, and up to four cadets from each squadron competed in each category. Cdt Cpl Adam Cripps won a gold medal in the Youths category, and Cdt Bronwyn Jacobs won a Bronze medal in the Junior Girls category.

They have been selected to represent the Wing at RAF Cranwell, along with Cdt Ryan Tutthill who has been selected as a reserve in the Boys category.

Image: Cdt Cpl Adam Cripps

by: CI Claire Marks Sqn MCO 863 (Thurston) Sqn - N&S Wg

20 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sunday Morning in a Muddy Field!

Sunday 19th February saw eleven cadets and three staff from 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn travel to the Tudor Grange stadium in Solihull to take part in the 2012 Warwickshire and Birmingham Wing Cross Country championships.

It was a very cold start with snow and ice on the ground, but the sun was soon rising and the conditions underfoot were typical for a cross country race.

Being a fairly young Sqn, 485 had entered cadets in all the events expect the senior girls and boys categories. All the cadets performed extremely well, but of particular note were the performances of Cdt’s Hitchman and Smith.

Flt Lt Jennings, OC 485 commented: “Firstly, I would like to thank the cadets for turning up on this very cold Sunday. To take eleven cadets to an event like this is a fantastic effort and I’m very proud of them all. Also thanks to FS (ATC) Coates and CI Coates for attending on the day and for also providing the radios used by the marshals.”

Image: The 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn team

by: Flt Lt Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) OC 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

19 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

126 Squadron Win Wing Cross Country

On Sunday 19th February, 126 (City of Derby) Sqn won the South & East Midlands Wing Cross Country competition by for the second consecutive year. They also walked away with 5 out of the 6 trophies that were up for grabs.

Despite freezing cold temperatures and muddy running conditions, the Cadets who represented Derby Squadron performed extremely well in all age categories, with most cadets in the team finishing in the top 20. They eventually won the overall competition but in addition, took possession of the Junior Girls, Junior Women, Boys and Junior Men’s trophies. Derby were a class above the rest in some areas with the Boys winning by 17 points and the Junior Men winning by 29 points.

For 126 Squadron, their success in the cross country competition is put down to hard training, led by Cdt FS Ross Keeling. FS Keeling has spent many weeks training the team for the 3 mile course and his efforts paid off on the day. He said: “All of the cadets in our team trained hard for the competition. There were some excellent runners from other squadrons but we managed to dig deep and pull off an impressive win.”

Notable achievements by individual Cadets included FS Keeling himself who came first in the Junior Men category and Cdt Veleska Wills who came first in the Junior Women category. Several other cadets from 126 Squadron will join FS Keeling and Cdt Wills to represent South and East Midlands Wing at the Regional competition.

Sgt (ATC) Elodie Marsh, Sports Officer at 126 Squadron said: “I’m very proud of my team. We have some outstanding athletes who put 100% in to the competition. The results this year are our best ever and hopefully put us on the right track to perform well at the Athletics competition in May.”

Image: The 126 (City of Derby) Sqn Team

by: Fg Off Jackie Glover RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 126 (City of Derby) Sqn - SEM Wg
 

19 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Wing Representation For Cambridge Cadets

Three Cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have represented Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing at rugby and netball.

For two of them, Cdts Elspeth Hennessey and Bella Shallcross this was their first time representing the Wing and meant that they were awarded a Wing Blue. Both were taking part in the netball tournament in which the wing finished second overall with Cdt Hennessey selected to take part in trials to represent Central and East Region.

Cdt Alex McIntyre joined the wing rugby team who finished fourth overall, he was also selected to take part in trials to represent the Region.

Cdt Cpl Ellie Murray said: “These cadets can be proud of what they have achieved in the sporting arena, for some the journey is not over as they continue to progress to Regional trials.”

Cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Squadron are due to represent Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing later in February on the hockey and football pitches as well as over the X-Country route.

Image by Flt Lt Stephen Dalton 115 (Peterborough) Sqn: Cdt Alex McIntyre with members of the Beds and Cambs Wing rugby team.

by: Plt Off Chris Cox RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

6 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Nordic Skiing with the Corps
A Cadets Personal Account

This year I was one of the lucky cadets that were selected to attend the Nordic Skiing expedition with Central and East Region Air Cadets.

My week began with my taking a train from Loughborough, Leicestershire to London and then getting across London using the London Underground to RAF Northolt. when I arrived, it was time to meet the other cadets from around the UK, we then started our 20 hour coach trip to Zweisel in Germany. It was a thoroughly enjoyable and active week that put the "A" back into Adventure Training. You get the chance to meet lots of great people and learn a new skill for life that I didn't have before.

I would thoroughly recommend to anyone if you are given the opportunity, but be prepared to be physically and mentally challenged as you are out on the ground all day, non-stop! During the week we learnt how to cross country ski for our Bronze Langlauf Award, scaled the Grossen Arber and completed an Inter-Regional time trial where Regional Blues were up for grabs!

The opportunity to gain a Regional Blue doesn't come up that often so you have to do your best and push yourself to achieve the award. Central and East Region gained 4 Regional blues, myself gaining one of them. This experience wouldn't be made possible without a large staff contribution of both time and effort. Thanks to everyone who made this experience possible.

by: Cdt Sgt Andrew Norman 1181 (Syston) Sqn - SEM Wg

5 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Up A River – With A Paddle

Over a recent weekend cadets from 1220 (March) Sqn took to the water and completed a river trip in kayaks along the river in Bedford, led by the Wing Adventure Training Officer Sqn Ldr Charles Dicks.

At the beginning of the day the cadets took their time to brush up on their skills. For first timer Cdt Chanel Ogden, this meant working out how to go in a straight line by actually managing to put her paddle in the water correctly. She soon got the hang of it and by the afternoon had become quite a competent kayaker.

Having completed their first river trip the cadets are looking forward to having another opportunity to take to the water next summer.

Image: Cdt Chanel Ogden out on the water

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

3 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

City Squadron Gains a Sports Leader

A cadet from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn has gained his Community Sports Leader Award, after Cdt Sgt Rhuben Smith completed the course following an intensive weekend course held at ATR Bassingbourn in Cambridgeshire.

The weekend was designed to instruct the cadets in the skills required when training and leading groups of young people in sports activities. The course consisted of lesson theory, risk assessment, business in sport and child protection. Other skills learnt included learning how to motivate people to achieve. Following the training Rhuben was required to devise and deliver a fifteen minute session for a group of four.

A sports leaders course is a fun practical course that focuses on leadership rather than technical ability making it open to all and the course can provide an excellent stepping stone for someone interested in a career in the sports and leisure industry. The course also develops leadership skills whilst increasing self confidence that comes through taking responsibility for their own and others learning and enjoyment.

Cdt Sgt Rhuben Smith said: “I really enjoyed the course and found it interesting learning about a different aspect of sport from what I was used to. I can now take what I have learnt back to my Squadron and help develop junior cadets.”

Plt Off Chris Cox added: “The skills that Cdt Sgt Smith has learnt by completing the Community Sports Leaders Award compliment the leadership, teamwork and communication skills currently on offer at 104 (City of Cambridge) Squadron perfectly.”

The course was run by P&R Partnerships, a company which run a range of sports courses for young people. Air Cadets can participate in a variety of sports during their time as a cadet including football, netball, hockey, rugby, swimming, athletics and X-Country.

Image: Cdt Sgt Rhuben Smith is pictured at the recent Squadron awards evening being presented the trophy for Adventure Training.

by: Plt Off Chris Cox RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

2 Feb 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Dapper New Kit at Balsall Common

Firstly a huge thanks to the Civilian Committee of 496 (Balsall Common) Sqn for the money to purchase the squadron's first brand new football kit.

Sgt (ATC) Wright who is instrumental in the squadrons sporting activities was delighted to see the kit arrive, commenting: “We'd better win these matches now we look the part."

The squadron travelled to Woodbrush High School in Hollywood on Sunday the 15th January 2012. The team played well together for the second round match and finished with a excellent 4-2 winning score against 485 (Harbourne & Quinton) Sqn. Sgt Wright was over the moon with the determination and hard work the squadron put into the match.

Flt Lt Glyn Slade OC 496 Squadron said: "I was delighted with the outcome and I cannot wait for the next match and ultimately the finals."

Image: 496 Squadrons football team are fit for Wembley looking rather dapper in their new football kit!

by: CI A Corsi 496 (Balsall Common) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

29 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Repeated Success at Dunstable

460 (Dunstable) Sqn has once again started the New Year with success following their part in the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire wing cross country championships.

The cadets knew that in order to win for a second year in a row it would require teamwork and a full team in each category. The cadets warmed up with high spirits and determination which to there delight paid off. Coming third in the senior girls was Cdt Sgt Shaw, Cdt Cpl Loczy, Cdts Pointon & Fitzgerald.

Also coming third in the senior boys was Cdt Sgt Wright, Cdt Cpl Gambier & Cdt Muclune. The points kept on added up as more of the squadron contributed greatly to the event and eventually mid afternoon it was time for the finial results.

3rd Place Overall Boys, 1st Place Overall Girls – With a Trophy and Wing Cross Country Champions 2012 !!! – With a Trophy

Cpl Grace Loczy said: “Everyone did brilliantly, we all put in our top effort and won because of it.” Dunstable squadron hope to continue the year with great efforts and even greater results. The next challenge is the Athletics championships in the next couple of months.

Image: 460 Sqn's Cross Country Team

by: Cdt Sgt Caroline Shaw & Cdt Cpl Grace Loczy 460 (Dunstable) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

29 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cross Country Medal Haul

Months of hard work and practice has paid dividends for a team of cadets from Bedford who has returned home with a significant haul of silverware consisting of 3 Trophies, 8 Gold Medals, 1 Silver Medal and 1 Bronze Medal.
 

The team from 134 (Bedford) Sqn recently competed in the annual Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing Cross Country Competition, held at Bassingbourn Barracks, Cambridgeshire.

The cadets, who have been in training for several months prior to the competition, made easy work of the three mile course and secured victory in a number of events.

At the conclusion of the competition the squadron was delighted to learn that for the 9th year in a row it had won the Youth Boys Trophy. It was further announced that its senior boy’s team had secured the Senior Boys Trophy. These combined successes ensured that the Overall Boys Trophy was also presented to the Squadron.

Winning individual medals were Cdt Imran Shah, who was awarded a gold medal for the Youth Boys category, Cdt Sgt Nicolas Every, who won a silver medal in the Senior Boys category and Cdt FS Ryan Sharples, who won a bronze medal, again in the Senior Boys category.

Gold team medals were presented to the Youth Boys Team consisting of Cdt FS Jonathan Bell (16), Cdt Cpl Daniel O’Neale (16), Cdts Connor Lennox (15) and Imran Shah (17).

The Senior Boys Team also won gold medals and they were awarded to Cdt FS Ryan Sharples (17), Cdt Sgts Nicolas Every (18) and Peter Roberts (19).

Five of the cadets who participated in the competition will now go on to represent the Bedfordshire & Cambridgeshire Wing at the inter wing cross country Competition at RAF Cranwell on Saturday 4th March 2012.

by: CI Chris Wiggins Sqn MCO 134 (Bedford) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

27 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Females Fly Into First Place

Two female cadets from 115 (Peterborough) Sqn sprinted to victory in the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing Cross Country Championships held on Sunday 22nd January 2012 at Bassingbourn Barracks, both Cdt Cpl Jessica Dannells and Cdt Katie Hutchinson came first in their age groups.

Cpl Dannells powered her way to finish in first place, finishing the course in 27 minutes and 15 seconds, leading the way in the Senior Girls race. Cdt Hutchinson beat all of the other junior female cadets to finish her race in 24 minutes 52 seconds, taking first place in her age group.

Both have gained their prestigious ‘Wing Blue’ awards and will go forward to represent Bedford and Cambridgeshire Wing at the regional cross country championship where they will be up against the best from the 5 other Wings in the region.

Cdt Hutchinson said: "It is an excellent achievement and after training for the cross–country race, I am extremely proud to have been awarded my Wing Blue. I am very proud to be representing our squadron."

by: Karen Barfield Sqn MCO 115 (Peterborough) Sqn - B&C Wg

24 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Continued Sporting Success For Cranfield

Six cadets from 207 (Cranfield) Sqn recently attended the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing Cross Country Championships at Bassingbourne Barracks, Cambridgeshire.

They once again showed their sporting prowess, coming home with several medals. Cdts Nicola Bint and Abi Jones gained 2nd and 5th places respectively in the Junior Girls category. This result was achievement enough to earn the squadron the 1st place trophy for the Junior Girls category.

Commanding Officer, Fg Off Matt Dolton was impressed with the cadets’ performance. he said: “Once again the cadets have outdone themselves. All we ever ask of them is to turn up and represent their Squadron so for them to come back with medals and an overall title is truly an achievement. To say I am proud of the cadets that have committed themselves and put in the effort to compete and the results speak for themselves.”

Image: The 4 cadets from the Junior Girls team receive their trophy from Wg Cdr Paul Bower

by: Fg Off Matt Dolton RAF VR(T) OiC 207 (Cranfield) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

23 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cambridge Cadet In Skiing Adventure

CWO Jess Bradshaw from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn has joined ninety cadets from across the Air Cadet Organisation for it’s annual Nordic Skiing Expedition to Zwiesel in Germany.

Jess hit the slopes in Bavaria to learn all the skills and techniques for Nordic, which is a X-Country style of skiing as part of the ten day ‘Nordic Adventure’ expedition with cadets from across the United Kingdom. Cadets were accommodated in chalets with cadets from their local area and cooked and ate together, alongside eating out at a local restaurant and swimming in the evening to relax.

During the week Jess learnt the various skills required to Nordic ski and then put skills into practice skiing a variety of 6km and 9km routes through Bavarian forests. During the week Jess was able to meet Air Commodore Barbara Cooper, Commandant Air Cadets.

The final day of the skiing phase of the exercise is taken up with the tests for the International Langlauf Awards and two short time trials that assess the ability of the students to move across undulating ground. Unfortunately due to a knee injury sustained the previous day Jess could only cheer her fellow cadets on from the sidelines.

CWO Jess Bradshaw said: “Throughout the week much falling over occurred but despite this I really enjoyed my time at Zwiesel the course is very physically demanding but you get so much out of it and I made some brilliant friends. I would recommend it to any cadet.”

CI Max Avard added: “Jess is yet another cadet from City of Cambridge Squadron to travel overseas with the Air Cadets. Cadets regularly travel to Germany, Cyprus, Gibraltar and the Netherlands as part of expeditions along with the USA and further afield as part of an exchange program.”

Image: CWO Jess Bradshaw in Zwiesel

by: Plt Off Chris Cox RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

23 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cambridge Cadets Continue Gold Standard

A team of seventeen cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn have continued their winning start of the year at the Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing X-Country championships held at ATR Bassingbourn.
 

Cadets arrived at ATR Bassingbourn and were shocked to be greeted by possibly the finest weather in X-Country history with previous years involving torrential rain, high winds and snow. This did not faze the cadets as they began to warm up ready to represent the Squadron in various age ranges.

The cadets won a total of six medals of which five were gold and were further rewarded by winning the trophy for the team event in the Senior Girls competition. Individual medals were won by Cdt Alex McIntyre who surged home first in the Junior Boys category whilst Cdt Cpl Julie Nash won Silver in the Senior Girls.

Other notable performances were Cdt Catherine Watson coming fourth in the Senior Girls and Cdt Cpl George Metcalfe coming fifth in the Senior Boys. Cdt Mercelo Leal on his first weekend activity showed that he has an excellent sporting future ahead of him coming forth in the Junior Boys category.

Cdt Cpl Ellie Murray, the Squadron Sports Officer said: “The cadets representing the squadron ran with pride and were duly rewarded with medals and trophies. The squadron so far this year has been exceptional at sports.”

Plt Off Chris Cox added: “It was really good to see so many cadets willing to represent the squadron at X-Country and achieving such an excellent result.”

A selection of cadets will now go forward to represent Bedfordshire and Cambridge Wing at RAF College Cranwell.

Image: Cdt Cpl Ellie Murray, Cdt Catherine Watson, Cdt Cpl Julie Nash, Cdts Emma Loftus and Alex McIntyre pose with medals and trophy.

by: Plt Off Chris Cox RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg

23 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

485 Battle Hard Against 496!

Sunday 15th January saw the cadets of 495 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn take part in the Wing football tournament against 496 (Balsall Common) Sqn. This was a quarter final match so there was plenty at stake as the cadets arrived at the Woodrush School.
 

Following an inspection of the Astro Turf pitch it was decided by Flt Lt Brendan O’Neill, the referee for the match, that the game could go ahead despite the cold conditions on the day. Unfortunately, only 10 cadets were able to play for 485 Sqn, but they all acquitted themselves tremendously well on the day.

The game started with both teams getting used to the pitch and after 10 minutes, 485 Sqn opened the scoring with a good goal. However, the 496 team came back immediately with a fine equalizer. The 496 team then started to take a hold on the game and they piled the pressure on to the 485 goal and by half time they were 3-1 up.

The second half was an battle. 485 Sqn made some changes in the team and this seemed to give them a better shape. With 10 minutes to go, Cdt Hitchman latched on to a ball and scored a fantastic goal, this brought the game back to 3-2. Despite the pressure on the 496 goal, they held out and they then broke away to score another goal. The game finished with 496 Sqn winning the game 4-2.

Flt Lt Jennings, OC 485 Sqn commented: “Firstly I would like to thank Flt Lt O’Neill for taking on the referee duties on the day, he didn’t get too many abusive comments!! I would also like to thank FS Coates for booking the pitch and other facilities. I would also like to personally thank all the cadets who played for our Sqn on the day. They played the complete 70 minutes and were a bit tired at the end! This was a hard fought game and I wish Flt Lt Slade and his team all the best for the semi-final game, well done!”

by: Flt Lt Simon Jennings RAF VR(T) OC 485 (Harborne and Quinton) Sqn - W&B Wg
 

19 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Bassingbourn Gain Twelve Young Sports Leaders

The Olympic year has finally arrived, and Bassingbourn cadets have gotten into the sporting spirit already. Twelve cadets from 2484 (Bassingbourn) Sqn have gained their Community Sports Leader Awards after participating in a challenging weekend which put their fitness, stamina and leadership skills to the test.

The aim of the weekend was to teach the cadets the appropriate skills when training and leading other young people in sports activities. These skills included how to motivate and stretch people to their full sporting potential. After being shown an example of an ideal sports session, the young leaders were thrown straight in the deep end and had to lead two sessions of their own.

The course was run by P&R Partnerships, a company which run a range of sports courses for young people, with the help of Cdt Sgts Ben Jones (16) and Kathryn Todd (16). Ben Jones commented: "The weekend was a great success and the squadron can now run more sports based activities as a result."

Everyone who participated passed the course and gained their Community Sports Leader Award, which entitles them to run sports and fitness sessions with other cadets. This is a very useful qualification to have as there are many sports events for young people to partake in within the air cadet organisation, including cross country, rugby, hockey, football, netball and swimming.

Image: Cdt Sgt Ryan Slater of Meldreth demonstrates how to lead a good sports session to his peers

by Cdt FS Claire Kelly Sqn MCO 2484(Bassingbourn) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

17 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Sandy Make The Team

Cadets from 22 (Sandy) Sqn recently attended the wing sports trials and netball competition, with six cadets earning a place to represent Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing.
 

The trials and netball competition were held at RAF Brampton, where the cadets were tested for the Junior Boys rugby team, and the Senior Boys soccer team. The Junior girls netball saw the girls competing in a tournament against teams from other squadron, and ended with the selections for the wing team.

Congratulations go to Cdts Jakub Grabowski (14), Sam Keeble (15) and William Clubb, who made it onto the Junior Boys rugby team, and Matthew Randall (17) who was selected to join the Senior Boys soccer team. Also well done to Cdt Cpl Laura Dorrell (15) and Cdt Jessica Gouveia (14) for being selected for the wing Junior Girls netball team.

Cdt Cpl Laura Dorrell (15) said, “Making the wing team is a really good achievement, especially with the level of competition. Well done to all the cadets from Sandy for getting through to the Wing teams”

The selected cadets will now go on to represent the Wing at the Regional competitions at the end of January and February.

Image: Cdt William Clubb during Rugby trails

by: CI Jeffrey Henshaw Sqn MCO 22 (Sandy) Sqn - B&C Wg

17 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page

Cambridge Cadets Win Gold

Cadets from 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn can celebrate after winning gold in the first Wing sporting event of 2012, the junior netball held at RAF Brampton.

The team, which included members of 2461 (Sawston) Sqn showed ruthless efficiency as they swept aside the opposition from the other squadrons within Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire Wing. The team was strong in defence whilst in attack Cdt Elspeth Hennessey seemed to score every time she had the ball in her hands. After winning the competition Cdts Elspeth Hennessey and Bella Shallcross were delighted to her they had also been selected for the Wing team.

Whilst the girls were storming to victory inside, outside the boys were taking place in trials for football and rugby with Cdts Alex McIntyre and Oscar Waldron representing the Squadron, both showed the skill and determination to be selected to represent the Wing.

The following weekend it was time for hockey trials at ATR Bassingbourn, following the cadets demonstrating their fitness levels and ball control they were able to demonstrate their skills in a game situation. At the end of the trials Cdt Cpls Ellie Murray and Julie Nash along with Cdt Bella Shallcross were please to be selected to represent the Wing.

Cdt Cpl Ellie Murray said “The cadets at the squadron were really proud to win the first competition on the year and will represent the Wing with the same pride, courage and determination.”

Plt Off Chris Cox added “The cadets have all put in a great deal of effort to succeed at the recent competition and trials. The netball team especially showed not only individual skill but excellent teamwork and communication as they earned their victory.”

Image: Cdt Elspeth Hennessey receives her gold medal from Wg Cdr Paul Bower.

by: Plt Off Chris Cox RAF VR(T) Sqn MCO 104 (City of Cambridge) Sqn - B&C Wg
 

15 Jan 2012                                                                                                                                                                                          Back to top of page