The Inter Services Championship: It’s Not Just Rugby

 The annual Army Vs Navy rugby match at Twickenham Stadium is fast approaching, and soon our nation’s heroes will be duking it out on the playing field in aid of The Royal British Legion. Excitement is mounting for the event with tickets having already sold out, but Twickenham is not the only pitch on which the services will be battling to be the best in 2016. This year there are a number of other inter services events taking place across the country, and all of them are sure to be just as thrilling. Here we present a small selection, so be sure to check them all out and show your support!

Inter Service Paragliding Championships

From 17th—24th June, participants from across the armed services will be taking to the skies in heart-pounding competition. Crickhowell in South-East Wales (or more accurately the air above it) plays host to this unique contest, and those in attendance are certain to witness something special this year. The championships are the perfect opportunity for the military paragliding community to come together and show off their skills. The event will feature state-of-the-art live tracking and a world-class retrieval service for all competitors, but those wanting to take part must have at least a club pilot qualification and 25+ hour’s experience.

For more information: https://www.raf.mod.uk/rafhpa/events/

Inter Services T20

This cricket competition is a triangular tournament between the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force at the historical Lord’s Cricket Ground. Spectators will be able to cheer on their heroes in three hotly contested cricket matches, all taking place on 19th May. Did you know, that this is one of only a few cricketing events in the world where audiences can see three matches in one day? The event will be raising money for SSAFA, the UK’s oldest national military charity, and there will also be a performance by the Royal Marines Band. Tickets are £16 for adults, £8 for those over 65, and £5 for children, and are available from the Lord’s ticket office by telephone or on the day of the event.

For more information: https://interservicest20.co.uk

Inter Services Course Racing Championships

Hosted by the Royal Navy Windsurfers, the Inter Services Course Racing Championships takes place from 6th—9th September at Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy. Teams of six windsurfers from each service compete for the prize cup, and last year’s champions The Royal Navy will be looking to defend their title. Individual racers will also be competing to become Inter-Services Champion. This competition is aimed at those with at least intermediate proficiency, but all are welcome to attend and support the competitors at no extra cost.

For more information: https://www.rnsa.org.uk/EventItem.aspx?ItemID=4392

Inter Service Golf Championships

From 18th—23rd September, Notts Golf Club in Nottingham welcomes golfers from the armed services to compete in a round robin tournament, with each of the 3 Services vying for dominance in both group and singles matches. Since 2002, the Inter Service Gold Championships has been a “Joint” event, with both men’s and women’s teams competing together for the title – the two sides are actually very evenly matched, with both having won the championship 4 times. This is a non-ticketed event, so entry to civilians is free of charge.

For more information: https://www.armygolf.co.uk/major-events/inter-service-championship/

This year’s Army Vs Navy rugby match is set to be a momentous clash for sure, but with a wide variety of military sporting events taking place over the coming months, spectators will be spoilt for choice. All of these events promise to be unmissable, showcasing the unbelievable strength and talent of our armed forces, as well as often raising money for charity. Not only are they a great opportunity to witness military athletes performing at the peak of their ability, but also a chance to give back to those who have given so much for our country.