WALES, United Kingdom — In November 2004, the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (3 RCR), brought home the gold at the Cambrian Patrol, one of the world's most difficult patrolling tests.
Held each fall in the Cambrian Mountains of Wales, United Kingdom, the Cambrian Patrol is internationally viewed as one of the most demanding challenges for any modern soldier. Hosted by the British Army, the competition is a long, mentally and physically gruelling challenge.
This year, the event was held from October 31 to November 2.
The overall goal is to test the training standards of the various patrols and their units. It is one of the most prestigious events in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.
About 50 kilometres and 48 hours after the 3 RCR team set out, it came upon a sign which read "Congratulations, you have just finished Cambrian Patrol 2004". Smiles broke out everywhere! Over unbelievably hideous terrain, they were finally finished!
The members of the winning team were: Sergeant Daniel (platoon commander), Master Corporal Leamon (second in command), Master Corporal Skinner (spare), Corporal Peach, Corporal Christensen, Corporal Arrand, Corporal Laidlaw, Corporal Walker, Corporal Mohammed and Private Manion (Spare).
Typically, between 80 and 100 teams compete annually at the Cambrian Patrol but only half finish the competition. It is very rare for a foreign team to earn a gold medal as the competition is based on British Army training standards.
For an infantry soldier, the Cambrian Patrol is the "Olympics" and this year a Canadian team won the gold.
Article by Sergeant Steve Daniel and photo by Sergeant Ron Hartlen
