Captain Amy MacDonald, from Paisley’s 102 Field Squadron, has been enjoying an incredibly busy summer with the Army Reserves. Amy took the time to recount some of her amazing experiences, highlighting the fabulous opportunities for Reservists outside of normal training.
15 June 2023
Sports Influencer Dinner at Edinburgh Castle
In 2022/2023 I was lucky enough to be supported by British Army Sport on the Army Elite Sport Programme (a scheme that supports future Olympians within the Army). Not only did this help me to progress in my chosen sport of curling, but it meant that I was invited to Edinburgh Castle for an engagement event.
We spoke to a variety of attendees including Scottish Heavyweight Boxing Champion Nick Campbell; CEO of the Commonwealth Games Scotland, Jon Doig; and Team GB Rower Dame, Katherine Granger. It was fantastic to discuss the opportunities provided within the Army to allow individuals to partake and thrive in sport.
18 – 23 June 2023
Exercise WAKE WALKER
Every year Ex WAKE WALKER introduces members of our Corps to the sports of waterskiing and wakeboarding. It is an opportunity for complete beginners and experienced riders to learn new skills and to compete.
I enjoyed being able to teach some of the participants how to waterski. At the end of the week I came second place in the wakeboard competition and was invited to be part of the Royal Engineers team that will go on to compete at the Army Championships.
25 – 30 June 2023
Army Waterski and Wakeboarding Association Championships – AWWA
Team ‘Royal Engineers’ arrived at Box End Park in Bedford just two days later, somewhat battered and bruised, for the Army Waterski and Wakeboarding Association Championships. It was a successful competition with me defending my Army Ladies Waterski title with a new personal best.
I also got my first ever podium in an Army wakeboard event. Our team came second out of nine teams, with the AAC (Army Air Corps) coming first and the REME (Royal Electrical Mechanical Engineers) coming third.
4 July 2023
The Garden Party at Holyrood Palace
The summer was topped off by being invited to attend the first Royal Garden Party at Holyrood Palace since the Coronation. Despite the rain, it was a marvellous time.
To find out more about opportunities with the Royal Engineers, click here.
