The Pringle Trophy is the annual competition between all Royal Marine CCF Detachments from schools throughout the UK. Held at the Commando Training Centre in Devon, it is a gruelling 48-hour event that pushes to the limit the physical stamina, determination and teamwork of the Cadet teams.
The current Charterhouse team, led so ably by Zander Bowes, trained relentlessly in preparation for this year’s event, held over Activities Weekend (7 and 8 October). Much free time was willingly sacrificed, often in the early mornings well before breakfast, to develop their fitness and improve their military skills. Their sense of purpose and team spirit has been palpable.
Throughout the entire competition our team gave their absolute best. More impressive than their ability and skill was their determination and sheer effort. Their selflessness and team spirit were also hugely impressive. Even when cold, wet and utterly exhausted they were unstinting in their support and encouragement of each other. Their commitment, teamwork and cheerfulness in the face of adversary are truly outstanding. Every member of the team, and especially the Captain Zander Bowes, deserve our respect and praise.
To see a selection of photographs please follow the link below:
| The Pringle Trophy 2017 | Internal Page |
The competition is named after Lt General Sir Steuart (sic) Pringle, a former Lieutenant General and Commandant General of the Royal Marines. On 17 October 1981, he was the victim of a booby-trap car-bomb blast and suffered severe injuries, including the loss of a leg.
The competition is directed by a team of Royal Marine Instructors, who set a ruthless pace and look for the same levels of proficiency and purpose as they would in regular Commandos. The two days of the competition begin well before dawn at 0530hrs and keep the Cadets busy late into the evenings. Military skills assessed include navigation, weapon handling, camouflage and concealment, sniper stalk, battle skills, target indication, Tyrolean traverse and combat medicine. Having changed camouflage gear for parade uniform, teams are then tested on their turnout, drill and knowledge of the history and traditions of the Royal Marines. To memorise and execute a 15-minute series of drill moves under the scrutiny of a Commando drill instructor is a severe test of self-discipline and teamwork, especially for the Team Captain.
The final and most demanding challenge is the infamous endurance run. This test of physical fitness and sheer grit follows the same rough-terrain course used by regular Marines, with a punishing combination of hills and mud-filled ditches. It also includes the notorious water-filled tunnels that spring to mind when one thinks of Commando training.
The Pringle Trophy is the most prestigious event in the Royal Marine CCF year and competition is always fierce.
