Inaugural 1RCHA Gunners’ Fitness Gauntlet saw Captain Kara Lee awarded third place as fittest female, Gunner Brooke Robertson awarded first place and Bombardier Ashley Wilson presented with second place. Photo Supplied: MCpl Thomas Goodwin
Submitted by: Gunner William Cook
Edited: Shilo Stag News
First Regiment Royal Canadian Horse Artillery (1RCHA) celebrated its inaugural Gunners FitnessGauntlet, with the most outstanding male emerging as Gunner Julian Robidoux and the top-notch female winner being Gunner Brooke Robertson in the two-day challenge completed on Dec. 5.
The first-place winners each received $500 courtesy of the First Regiment Senate. Captain Laura Turner and Sergeant Simpson were honoured with the Spirit of the Gauntlet awards for showcasing exceptional sportsmanship.
The inaugural competition was a remarkable showcase of fitness, camaraderie, and unwavering determination. It left a lasting impact on both competitors and spectators alike.
The title of second place fittest male went to Lieutenant-Colonel Joe O’Donnell and third place to Bomadier Daniel Zanata. The second fittest female title is now held by Bombardier Ashley Wilson, and third place is Captain Kara Lee.
Robidoux’s exceptional performance and consistency in securing first and second places across various events highlighted his unwavering commitment to physical excellence, a spokesperson for 1RCHA said.
“He truly embodied the spirit of the Gunner’s Fitness Gauntlet.”
Robertson of B Battery dominated the competition, showcasing unparalleled strength and skill.
“Her impressive victories [in most events] solidified her as the fittest female Gunner,” the spokesperson said.
Camaraderie Amidst Challenges:
Competitors faced the physical rigours of the gauntlet while cheering each other on, fostering a continued sense of camaraderie at such high levels rarely seen.
“The spirit of mutual encouragement elevated the event, creating an atmosphere of support and shared determination,” 1 RCHA stated.
Breaking New Ground
This year, 2023, set the stage for a new tradition. It served as a crucial preparation for the upcoming Ex STRONG CONTENDER, a 1 CMBG sports competition scheduled for January in Edmonton.
Corporal Derek Picklyck, 2022 winner of Manitoba’s Fittest Male partnered with PSP to program and support the challenge at CFB Shilo.
“[He] did exceptional at planning and executing the overall series of events.”
Physical Preparedness for Operational Success
Spokeperson for 1RCHA explained as it enters a BUILD year, physical preparedness becomes paramount in readying the regiment for potential deployments. The 2023 Fitness Gauntlet underscored the crucial role of [physical readiness] in enhancing our ability to manage the challenges of operations.
Courage Beyond Comfort Zones
Many Gunners showcased tremendous courage by stepping out of their comfort zones.
Competitors exemplified resilience and determination by overcoming fear and pain in pursuit of the tasks presented. These challenges required physical strength as well as the willpower to see things through despite the daunting nature of the events, the Regiment spokesperson said, adding the Gunner’s Fitness Gauntlet stands not only as a testament to physical prowess but also as a celebration of Gunner spirit, courage and unity.
“Congratulations to all Gunners who participated, showcasing the true essence of strength in unity as we march forward into a year of challenges and triumphs.”
Inaugural 1RCHA Gunners’ Fitness Gauntlet saw Gunner Daniel Zanata awarded third place as fittest male, Gunner Julian Robidoux awarded first place and Lieutenant-Colonel Joe O’Donnell presented with second place. Photo Supplied: MCpl Thomas Goodwin
Photo Supplied: MCpl Thomas Goodwin