A BERKSHIRE Cadet is the proud winner of the Claire Shaw Trophy at this year’s Champion Cadet competition.
Jonathan Opoku-Anokye faced a series of obstacle courses, navigation exercises, leadership challenges, and teamwork tasks at the National Cadet Training Centre in Frimley Park, emerging a winner.
Designed to test physical endurance, mental resilience, and strategic thinking, the event not only crowns the top cadet from each force, awarding the Claire Shaw Trophy (for the Army Cadet Force (ACF) and the Captain General’s Cup for the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), but also instils skills and values that prepare participants for future success in all areas of life.
“When I found out I was in the top two, it was surreal,” said Jonathan.
“Then came the interview, and finally I was announced as the winner on parade—it was like, whoa.
“The hardest challenge was definitely navigation.
“It was a big distance to cover, and not only were we being tested on navigation skills, but also on endurance.
“Night Navigation, in particular, was difficult—being in the dark without knowing exactly where you are is tough.”
Jonathan is already an active person, and had just completed a three week long UK International Exchange.
“The day before the competition, I went on a bike ride to stay loose,” he said.
“For me it’s all about relaxation.
“If I go in thinking I need to win, I just get too stressed.
“Instead, I focused on staying calm and doing my best.”
Jonathan says the competition developed his skills and abilities.
“My shooting definitely improved, as well as my perseverance, communication, and teamwork skills,” he said.
“Even though it’s a solo competition, there were still aspects where teamwork came into play.
“I also gained a lot of confidence, especially from teaching a lesson in front of my peers, which is quite hard.”
When asked what may have set him apart from other Cadets this year, he said: “I think it was my attitude.
“I had a really bouncy, positive energy throughout—whether I did well or not – especially in shooting.
“I just kept that upbeat mindset, telling myself, ‘it is what it is – keep going.’”
What advice would he give to future competitors?
“They should take their time and relax,” he said.
“The key is to stay calm and focused: when you’re in the right headspace you perform better.”
Jonathan is keen to continue to work on self-improvement.
“I plan to finish school,” he said, “go to university, maybe commission as a barrister, then join the Army.
“It’s all about constant self-development, and this competition really reinforced that for me.”
For information, visit: armycadets.com.
