HMS HIBERNIA HITS THE SLOPES FOR SKI CHAMPIONSHIPS 2018

In a snowy January the world famous ski resort of Tignes in France played host to Units of the Royal Navy and Royal Navy Reserve who met together for the annual Royal Navy Ski Championships. These ski championships form one part of many of the Adventurous Training opportunities offered by the Royal Navy Reserves. This year’s ski championship included HMS Hibernia, the Royal Navy Reserve Unit based within Thievpal Barracks, Lisburn.

The RN Ski Championship involves new skiers and those with more experience to enjoy the spirit of competition as well as taking time to improve their skills on the snow. The aim of the fortnight is not just about skiing but encompasses leadership, improving personal skills, gaining Adventurous Training experience, working and socialising together. These qualities were seen in their plenty as the heaviest snowfall for many years also meant a day’s closure of the slope. However, the competitive edge was maintained in various swimming and bowling competitions. 

Back on the slopes a valuable week’s skiing course allowed individuals the ability to grow and was an essential precursor for the final day in which the Royal Navy Ski Championships were held. For HMS Hibernia, those attending fought hard in their various events although the top award for the Unit was won by Midshipman Evie Dornan who finished runner up in the Beginners’ Slalom race. All those who attended were awarded with the Joint Service Ski Foundation Level One.
Midshipman Dornan said, “It was a great week, the ski instruction we received was excellent and it was a great fun”. She added, “The highlight for me was being runner up in my race”.