Top Ten Through to Fulda European Eliminator
Rob Howard / 24.06.2005
The competitors were chosen for the initial UK selection event following a six-month nationwide search for athletes with superb strength, stamina and determination - as well as driving and skiing ability.
Fulda Challenge is now in its sixth year and takes place in the Yukon Territory of Canada early next year. Events will include skiing, mountain biking, ice climbing, car pulling and 4x4 driving - all in temperatures as low as -50ºc.
For the second year, Fulda UK teamed up with the Royal Marine Commandos and used their expertise in the selection procedure. The tough event took place at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines in Lympstone, Devon. Travelling from all around the UK, the competitors brought with them a variety of experience from adventure racing and outdoor pursuits to ski instruction.
Making full use of the centre’s exceptional training facilities, the Royal Marines planned an itinerary of sporting endurance. The schedule, designed to push even the strongest participants to their personal limits, involved a number of endurance challenges designed to test physical and mental fitness.
Day one began with an exhausting 20km road run and a timed ATV event. Competitors also faced a daunting chasm crossing exercise. Each contestant had to cross a horizontal rope that joined two points, with a vat of water to catch them if they fell off. This arm-aching event was followed by an intensive two-minute rope climb. The technique and guidance provided by the PT Instructors will prove invaluable for the final team in Canada.
To complete the tasks for day one, the competitors were presented with a wheel change challenge and a chance to prove their stamina on the demanding Royal Marine Commando assault course.
Exhausted and aching, on Saturday evening the competitors experienced life as a Royal Marine as they enjoyed an evening meal and accommodation in the Sergeants Mess.
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