THE COUNTESS OF WESSEX
WATCHES A FRIENDLY BATTLE FOR THE ANNUAL CUP IN HER NAME
is a force for good on trip to a military base for a trophy challenge
After a summer break, the Countess of Wessex was clearly delighted to be back doing her royal duties last week. Sophie – who’s never afraid to get stuck in with activities when she’s out and about – was full of smiles and very much dressed for the part, wearing fatigues to watch a military competition.
The royal, 56, got back to work in soaring temperatures at RAF Wittering in Cambridgeshire, as British and Canadian military units associated with her went head to head in a friendly battle for the annual Countess of Wessex Cup.
The venue and challenges change from year to year but always include a series of demanding physical and mental tests. She watched as personnel from the Royal Navy, army and Royal Air Force took part in physical tests, an escape room, online gaming and challenges involving media, science and engineering.
ROAD WARRIOR
Sophie removed her boots and donned headphones to take the wheel of a simulator to drive a virtual rally car on a 2.8-mile circuit in the racing game Dirt Rally 2.0.
The Countess, who has been honorary Air Commodore for RAF Wittering since 2008, was greeted by Wing Commander Jez Case, its station commander, and Lord-Lieutenant of Cambridgeshire Julie Spence before watching the competition.
Jez said afterwards: “Our project officers have done a great job in
‘Today’s event was enjoyed by all, including HRH’
designing and organising today’s event, which was enjoyed by all, including Her Royal Highness.
“The atmosphere has been one of co- operation and friendly competition, a valuable part of life in the armed forces that helps foster esprit de corps.”
Sophie and the teams were also treated to a surprise flypast by the Red Arrows, who were en route to another event from their base at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire.
The Countess is Colonel-in-Chief for two Canadian regiments – the South Alberta Light Horse and the Lincoln and Welland Regiment – and both competed virtually because of Covid restrictions.
In the UK, she is also Colonel-in-Chief for Queen Alexandra’s Royal Army Nursing Corps and the Corps of Army Music and Sponsor of HMS Daring – all of which were competing last week alongside RAF Wittering personnel – as well as Royal Colonel of 5th Battalion The Rifles, who eventually claimed victory for the army.
Sophie donned headphones to take the wheel of a simulator to drive a virtual rally car