An Cosantóir the official magazine of the Irish Defence Forces and Reserve Defence Forces.
Issue link: https://digital.jmpublishing.ie/i/405712
www.military.ie the defence forces magazine | 27 Then it's on to Part 2, the 3.2km run. For those carrying out their test in McKee Bks the route follows the main road through the Phoenix Park. While some drive to the start- ing point I jog over as I find it a good warm-up. At the start point the BPEO gives the timings required for the various age groups and any final instructions. I took my last gulp of water and set off. The 3.2kms can be a killer on a windy day but luckily it was quiet, sunny and pleasant, and I completed it in a respectable 13mins 2secs. So far, so good. Times and grades were marked up in the AF717s, and it was time to go home and pack up the webbing for tomorrow. The next day I returned to the Army Grounds in the Phoenix Park, the start point of the 10km loaded march. Unlike previous years this wasn't done with the rucksack but with the DPM bat- tle-vest and day-sack, loaded to 14kg. Also unlike previous years, this year's route comprised of two loops over open ground and trails. The weather was wet with persistent rain as the BPEO again gave out instructions on the route and times. Then we were off. I jogged the first kilometre to warm up, and although it's the first time I have worn the battle-vest/day-sack on something like this I found it easier to carry than the rucksack – no chaffing on the back. I also found the terrain easier on the feet than the tarmac path of previous years. The rain continued as I finished the first loop, but by that point the wetness really made no difference. I find the second loop easier than the first, which I put down to my pre-test preparation paying off! As I passed the Papal Cross for the second time I was on the home run and I crossed the finish with a time of 68mins. That's it for another year! My advice for RDF personnel is to complete the tests as early in the year as possible. You must prepare, as failing to do so will almost certainly lead to failure and the need to repeat. On test days have a good breakfast and hydrate right up until the start. For the loaded march, pack your 14kg well, watch for chaffing and wear good socks. Needless to say your boots should be well broken in too. Overall, don't be complacent! No matter how fit you think you are, always prepare for each test as best you can. CQMS Barrett (a regular contributor to An Cosantóir) is a physical training leader (PTL) with D Coy, 7 Inf Bn.