The First Ever Army Gun Run at Sir Harry Smith Community College: A Tradition with Purpose.
On Friday, 21st November, Sir Harry Smith Community College hosted its first ever Army Gun Run, inspired by a military tradition. Originally scheduled for Remembrance Day but delayed due to weather, the event challenged students, all in support of the Royal British Legion.
The students were broken into three teams of mixed age and ability. The course covered just over 300m with three obstacles; a 20m crawl, and two walls which the equipment needed to be passed over. The format of the event was simple, each team starts with a “field gun”, they then dismantle it and do a lap of the course whilst carrying the “field gun” they then reassemble it once they reach the start/finish point, once it has been reassembled correctly, the teams repeat the course.
The competitive nature of the competition was clear in the fact that only 1 minute separated all three teams. The results (in order of participation) –
Team 1 – 13:25
Team 2 – 13:01
Team 3 – 12:28
Commando Marc, leader of the course, said: “Teamwork and determination were key in the event, and I was massively impressed by the effort put in by every single person who took part. The event is physically demanding, and it was clear to see that even though it was difficult the drive and determination not to let the team down was evident. I’d like to thank everyone involved in the event, staff, spectators, and in particular, the students who took part. You should be proud of your efforts.”
The Army Gun Run has its origins in the Second Boer War (1899-1902), during the Siege of Ladysmith, when British Navy sailors were tasked with moving heavy naval guns across difficult terrain to support the British Army. This operation became a symbol of teamwork and resilience. In 1907, the challenge was formalised as the Field Gun Run at the Royal Tournament in London, where teams had to overcome obstacle courses similar to the ones faced during the Ladysmith march. Though the Royal Tournament ended in 1999, the tradition continues today in both military and civilian competitions.
Year 11 student Alex S, who took part in the event, said: “As a Senior Cadet in the Army Cadet Force, I’ve always had a strong interest in military training and teamwork. I heard about the Army Gun Run and thought this was the perfect opportunity to put all my skills to the test. I’m planning to study Military History at university and pursue a career as an officer in the British Army. My long-term goal is to attend the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst after university, and after a recent visit, I’m more committed than ever to achieving this. Seeing Sandhurst in person has reinforced my determination to pursue a career in the Armed Forces, so any chance to test my physical ability, discipline, and resilience is something I value greatly. Taking part in the Army Gun Run allowed me not only to challenge myself but also to work within a team under pressure, what made the experience even more meaningful was the chance to raise funds for the Royal British Legion and honour our service members.
A huge thank you to Commando Marc and Mrs Buddle for their support in making this event a success. It was inspiring to see all the teams come together, showing such determination and spirit. I hope the Army Gun Run becomes a regular tradition at Sir Harry Smith Community College. Congratulations to all the teams who took part – I’m proud to have been part of such a meaningful event and look forward to seeing it grow in the future.”
Some students were able to go outside and watch the event. Year 8 student Scarlett J, said: “People who participate showed teamwork, especially when they had to drag the objects along the floor. They looked like they had so much fun and I think the school should do more things like it!”
