20 October 2023
Kent Wing’s RAF Air Cadets 129 (Tunbridge Wells) Squadron has been awarded the prestigious Shackleton Trophy for its ‘Pedal Overlord’ cycling expedition to the Normandy D-day beaches (supported by The Ulysses Trust and RAF Charitable Trust).
In May 2023, 129 Squadron’s Pedal Overlord expedition took 16 cadets aged 13-17, supported by 5 squadron staff members, on a fast-paced 200km bike ride over 3 days. Leaving vehicles behind at Portsmouth and riding bikes onto the ferry, the route took the cadets along the D-day beaches with full expedition kit. All participants gained an understanding and appreciation of the scale of Operation Overlord back in 1944.
“This was a strenuous expedition for cadets who showed great determination to complete the challenge. We’re delighted to have been awarded The Shackleton Trophy and intend to compete for it again in future years.”
Squadron commanding officer and expedition leader Flt Lt JC Vousden
“One of the best experiences that cadets has ever provided, this opportunity was once in a lifetime, and I would love to do it again.”
Corporal Kian Hepden (Expedition member)
The coveted Shackleton Trophy is awarded annually to the Air Training Corps (ATC) expedition judged to be the most successful, imaginative, and adventurous. The award was created by Jim Crail, a previous Chairman of the Shackleton Association. He thought to link the quality of endurance implicit in the Shackleton aircraft’s name with that demanded from each ATC expedition and representing the Corps motto ‘Venture Adventure’.
Expedition report: Pedal Overlord 2023
The Ulysses Trust wish to thank the generosity of the Royal Air Force Charitable Trust (RAFCT) for supporting this expedition. www.rafct.com
RAFCT’s purpose is to inspire young people to fulfil their potential in air, space and technology. The teamwork skills and memorable experiences generated by expeditions supported by RAFCT will stand them in good stead when they begin building their careers and their future.
About
129 (Tunbridge Wells) Squadron ATC meets Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the Army Reserve Centre, Tunbridge Wells. Cadet membership is open to all young people agedbetween 12 and 18 who accept the challenge. Find out more at https://129sqn.org/
Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTPnyVtcEyU&t=39s
