The excitement was high as cadets and staff from 2286 Sqn lined up to get on the coach that would take us to Kenilworth. We were about to compete in the annual Wing Competition Day, an event being held for the first time in 4 years. If excitement was high then, it was to be through the roof on our return journey.

The day consists of a number of competitions across a number of Corps disciplines, with cadets competing at drill, banner, first aid, radio, air recognition, music and shooting. There were also a number of activities for cadets to try during the day, including STEM and flight simulators and a CVQO information point. The day culminates in a final parade with the prizes awarded by Wing Commander Hobbins. The cadets felt they had done well, but even so were stunned when the results were called.

So how did we do? Well we won the radio, came 2nd in banner and 3rd in drill, as well as scoring points in music, air recognition and first aid. The biggest surprise however was yet to come. We had won the overall Per Ardua Trophy, crowning us officially the Best Squadron in the Wing! As you can imagine it was a very happy team that headed home. Commanding Officer Flt Lt Seymour RAFAC said afterwards "I couldn't be prouder of my cadets and staff who worked so hard for this moment". Final part to the story was the Squadron celebrating with pizza and still pinching themselves over their epic win

If you're interested in learning more about what you could get out of Air Cadets, or are already interested in joining, please feel free to get in touch! 2286 Air Cadets is always pleased to welcome potential new recruits from Coventry aged 12 - 20, as well as potential staff and civ com members and alumni of the Squadron. If you'd like to get in touch, the Squadron can be contacted on email via oc.2286@rafac.mod.gov.uk, or by telephone on 024 7659 2286 Tuesday and Friday evenings 7pm - 9pm.