The road to Nijmegen
Supporting the Somerset, Bristol and Channel Island Cadet Force on their training march
The 4Daagse, or The Walk of the World, is the world’s largest multi-day walking event, held annually in Nijmegen, Netherlands. Over 47,000 participants from more than 70 countries take on the challenge of walking 30, 40, or 50 km daily for four consecutive days. Among them is a contingent of UK military personnel - cadets, reservists, and regulars - who walk 40 km per day, carrying 10 kg in their daysacks, demonstrating discipline, endurance, and teamwork. The 4Days Marches | the Walk of the World | 4Daagse
Participation in the 4Daagse requires commitment and preparation. UK military cadets must be over 16 years old and complete a qualification event, such as the RAF Cosford march. They then undergo a series of training road marches to develop the physical and mental resilience necessary for this demanding challenge.
As part of the Armed Forces Covenant, businesses across the UK are encouraged to engage with Cadet organisations, supporting young people in their development and training. The Covenant is a promise from the nation that those who serve, or have served, in the armed forces - and their families - are treated fairly.
cloudsecure is proud to partner with the Somerset, Bristol and Channel Island Cadet Force, supporting them in their journey to Nijmegen. The company has provided cadets with custom polo shirts, giving them a shared identity and a tangible memento of their experience. These shirts will be worn during the event as a representation of their dedication and teamwork.
Last Saturday, Cathy Sturt and Benjamin Cook joined the cadets on a training march weekend to hand out the polo shirts and meet the team. The cadets set off from Barnstaple, following the picturesque Tarka Trail, while Cathy and Ben joined them at Landcross Train Station.
Among the group was a chatty cadet who had also learned to play the bugle — a morale booster when the marches get tough. Keeping spirits high is just as important as physical endurance during challenges like these. In addition to marching and bugling he used the march time by reciting his English text (Lord of the Flies) for his upcoming GCSE exams!
After six miles, the group reached The Puffing Billy, their halfway point, where they stopped for a well-earned lunch break. This is where Cathy and Ben left the cadets to complete their journey.
While waiting for the cadets to return to Okehampton Camp for the polo shirt presentations, Cathy and Ben decided to explore Dartmoor National Park, hiking up Yes Tor and West Mil Tor—a 5-mile trek with 330 metres of climbing.
Once the cadets had completed their march, the team reunited at camp, where Ben and Cathy handed out their new polo shirts. The cadets expressed their excitement about representing their unit in Nijmegen in July.
The cloudsecure flag will make its way to Nijmegen, where cadets will pose beneath the iconic arch of gigantic boots at the finish—a moment that will capture the determination and teamwork it takes to complete the event.
The cadet programme is a fantastic way for young people to challenge themselves, step outside their comfort zones, and embrace new opportunities. cloudsecure is thrilled to be part of their journey and looks forward to seeing the incredible photos and hearing about their experience.
Shout out to Emily Kadoch and Jon Beake for helping us organise this great day out!
Good luck to the cadets taking on the Nijmegen March - we know they’ll make us proud!