An Cosantóir

Dec 2012/ Jan 2013

An Cosantóir the official magazine of the Irish Defence Forces and Reserve Defence Forces.

Issue link: https://digital.jmpublishing.ie/i/96678

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sport | 33 47km, followed on the second day by a 35km hike, then a 40km, while the last day finished with 45km. All routes were very challenging. The warmth and welcome from the people in Nijmegen has to be seen to be believed. Despite starting each morning at 0330hrs the roads were still lined with well-wishers offering sweets, fruit and liquid refreshments. Each day we were met with brass bands at every village and well-wishers at literally every crossroads. The welcome back to the finish each day in Nijmegen was outstanding and the crowds for the last 5km on the final day were three or four deep, all roaring encouragement. It felt very special for all involved and was a satisfactory conclusion after all the pain endured while marching long distances carrying packs from January onwards. Having successfully completed the course all seven members of the Defence Forces team proudly received their Vierdaagsekruis. For those who would like to participate in the future a reasonable level of fitness is required. Our training commenced in January with 14-16km walks building up to 40km by May. Participation in the Castlebar Walking Festival was a good indicator of the challenge ahead and greatly assisted us in Nijmegen. More information can be obtained on the Nijmegen and Castlebar websites at www.4daagse.nl/en/ and www.castlebar4dayswalks.com/ Blisters day 4 Medals presented www.military.ie the defence forces magazine

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