Paige LeClairLATVIA–Earlier this month over 100 members of the Canada National Support Element of the enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group (eFP) participated in the “Baltic Warrior” challenge in Latvia this month.
The eFP battle group has over 400 Canadians located in Latvia, consisting of a mechanized infantry battalion group.
Soldiers work shoulder to shoulder building relationships and working alongside Allies from 18 nations.
The Baltic Warrior was organized by the Canadian eFP Battle Group. Competing in groups of two, over 200 participants competed in a 20km rucksack march, 2km portage, 7km canoe paddle, with the final task of a 2km rucksack march, all while carrying 18kg.
This competition is similar to the Iron Warrior hosted in Petawawa, the Bush Man in New Brunswick and Mountain Man in Alberta.
“The race was a great opportunity to build cohesion and test the physical and mental resilience of our deployed members. It was a beautiful day for the event, and all our members had a great time engaging in friendly competition,” says, Lieutenant-Colonel, Kieran Kennedy, commanding officer, Canadian National Support Element, enhanced Forward Presence Latvia.
Winner of the “Baltic Warrior” challenge was Spain, and Italy was awarded top contingent.
The Battle Group in Latvia consists of eight countries: Albania, Canada, Czech Republic, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Spain.
Follow the NATO eFP Battle Group here for more information and updates.
