Adventure Training Success: Cadets Take on Grafham Water Challenge

Autumn sunshine greeted fourteen Army Cadets as they arrived at Grafham Water for an action-packed day of mountain biking and navigation. Thanks to ACCT UK funding, these young adventurers from Middlesex & NW London ACF experienced a super Saturday of adventure training. The cadets tackled challenges to earn both their 1-star Adventure Training and Navigation qualifications.

The day’s clever organisation saw the group split between Companies 21 and 23. While one half started with walking exercises, the others gripped handlebars and learned mountain biking basics. After lunch, they swapped, ensuring everyone experienced the full spectrum of activities.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the mountain biking as it challenged me a lot,” enthuses Cadet Kandlakunta from 218 Barnet. Their day began with essential safety briefings. “We were assigned a bike and learned the fundamentals of riding a mountain bike,” they explain. “Then we took off on our route.”

The varied terrain around Grafham Water proved perfect for building skills progressively. Gentle slopes gave way to more challenging inclines. Each new hill tested the cadets’ growing confidence and control.

For Cadet Kandlakunta, the highlight came at the journey’s end. “My favourite part of the ride was the last part where we had a close-up look of the river we were cycling around,” they share. Through winding paths and changing scenery, these young cadets discovered capabilities they hadn’t known they possessed.

Beyond the physical challenges, something equally valuable emerged: friendship. Bringing together cadets from different companies created new bonds. “I enjoyed the whole day and am happy that I took part in this great experience with other fun cadets,” reflects Cadet Kandlakunta. In shared challenges, they found shared triumph.

Such was the day’s success that plans are already in motion for a repeat event in spring 2025. This continuation speaks volumes about the impact of ACCT UK’s support in creating meaningful opportunities for young people.

Through mud-splattered grins and tired but happy faces, one thing became clear… this wasn’t just about learning to ride bikes. It was about pushing boundaries, building trust, and discovering new strengths. For these cadets, Grafham Water will always be the place where adventure led to achievement.

*ACCT UK’s grant helped fund the hiring of specialist mountain bikes which enabled the qualified adult volunteers to deliver adventurous training.

Learn more about our grants and how to apply.