Royal Signals Units Virtually Face Off for Race The Sun 21

The annual intra-Corps epic was conducted using gym equipment and an array of computer systems in York on Thursday.

Imphal Barracks, home of 2 Signal Regiment, played host to race control as soldiers from across the Royal Corps of Signals competed in virtual activities.

Events included a half marathon run, a 15-mile mountain bike race, and a row over 10km.

Lieutenant Colonel Jamie Balfour, Commanding Officer (CO) of 2 Signal Regiment, said: “Today was not just about physical fitness, but mental fitness and innovation as well. Success was as much about communications as it was being the best runner, cyclist or runner.”

The major unit winners were 13 Signal Regiment, with Harrogate’s Army Foundation College (AFC) and 15 Signal Regiment (Team B) scooping the minor unit and mixed (male and female) unit awards respectively.

Last year’s Race the Sun was unfortunately cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, with races usually taking place throughout North Yorkshire until the setting of the sun.

The day is typically concluded with a team stretcher race at Imphal Barracks, with up to 600 troops from across the country representing or cheering on their units.

In normal years, most competitors will do one event each, with the kayaking along York’s rivers a particular highlight due to the public nature of proceedings.

Race the Sun 22 should revert back to the pre-Covid format and troops are surely looking forward to meeting up with old friends once again.