EX BIKING HAWK 2016

It was June 2016, summer was here and England were still in the Euros as 15 members of The King's Royal Hussars made a 631 mile journey at a leisurely 62mph to the Harz Mountains in Germany for a week of mountain biking. 

2Lt Kula-Przezwanski and LCpl Shaw (RTR) began to provide expert instruction as we departed our Torfhaus lodge for day one. As everyone thought they were getting used to the idea of being on two wheels and hurtling down dirt tracks, Tpr Dade's bike went one way and he the other, leaving him with an early taste of Bavarian mud. The group contained bikers from across the experience spectrum and you didn't need to see them ride to know who fell as the number of squeaky-clean, expensive-looking trainers became covered dirt and water as legs hit the floor. 

The week progressed as planned with the routes become slightly more demanding yet nevertheless enjoyable. The Bavarian countryside was the perfect place and as the skill level so did the metres above sea level.

​As the final days approached England managed to sneak a last minute group stage win against Wales and the bikes were returned to the rental shop. Among the walking wounded that had been tossed from their mounts, 2Lt Kula-Przezwanski had heroically sacrificed himself to the mercy of the German midges, and Tpr Saxebly's lower limbs which now seemed to be more jelly than legs.

All in all it was an excellent week away from the rigours of regimental life and much deserved break for the soldiers involved. All of which would not have been possible but for the generosity of the Regiment and the Royal Welsh for the use of their mini-bus!