Gibraltar Field Gun Crew Wins Plate 2 Final

The British Forces Gibraltar Field Gun crew has won the Plate 2 final at the Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity Field Gun Competition.

A statement from British Forces Gibraltar follows below:

After a seven-year hiatus and more than 25 years without silverware, the British Forces  Gibraltar Field Gun crew made a spectacular comeback by winning the Plate 2 final at the  prestigious Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity Field Gun Competition held at HMS  Collingwood. 

The fiercely contested Field Gun Competition is the highlight of the HMS Collingwood Open  Day, featuring 18 crews from across the UK and as far afield as Cyprus, Naples, and  Gibraltar, all competing for the coveted Brickwoods Trophy. 

In glorious sunshine, the Fareham naval base welcomed thousands of visitors eager to  watch the main event, where gun crews competed in timed heats, racing to complete the  course as quickly and efficiently as possible. The best times from these heats determined  which teams advanced to the final rounds. 

The competition involves crews running a set course over 150 yards out and back that  includes assembling, dismantling, and manoeuvring a field gun and its equipment weighing  1,000 kilograms (approximately 2250 pounds). Precision, speed, and teamwork are all  critical. 

The Gibraltar crew, led by No.1 Trainer Lt Mark Gower RN, comprising 12 Royal Gibraltar  Regiment personnel, including four B Coy reservists, six Royal Navy, three RAF, and one  British Army member, delivered an exceptional performance, showcasing remarkable  teamwork, determination, and resilience. 

The Gibraltar crew’s return to competition followed a purposeful and ambitious effort to  rebuild after the COVID-19 pandemic brought activities to a halt. Lt Gower explained, “When  I arrived back in Gibraltar and saw the field gun track still in place, I thought, why not get a  crew back together? With strong support from Command leadership and fantastic local  sponsors - including Balaena, Powder Monkey, Mitie Defence, Ibex, and Aurrera - we were  able to recruit a diverse team drawn from the Royal Gibraltar Regiment, RAF, British Army,  and Royal Navy, and begin training hard, steadily building momentum.”

Preparation involved three months of intensive gym sessions focused on strength, speed,  and explosive power, supported by professional trainers and a comprehensive conditioning  programme. This dedication paid off on the track, where muscle memory and precise timing  proved decisive. 

The Gibraltar Field Gun crew’s success marks a proud moment for British Forces Gibraltar  and exemplifies the enduring spirit and camaraderie that define this historic competition. 

Commander British Forces, Commodore Tim Davey RN, said: “Having recently  commanded HMS Collingwood, where this event takes place, I know how important this is  for the Military community; how competitive the event is and how much hard work and  commitment goes into competing. To come away winning Plate 2 is a fantastic achievement  for our Field Gun Crew and for British Forces Gibraltar; we are all incredibly proud of this  truly tri-service team and look forward to keeping this momentum going in the following  years”. 

Lt Mark Gower RN, reflecting on the victory, said, “This was an amazing performance by  the crew. They brought it home when it mattered. I’m extremely proud of every one of them – Gibraltar is back!” 

WO2 Adam Cook, Crew Captain, Royal Gibraltar Regiment, said “I was honoured to be  appointed crew captain of the BFG Field Gun crew. I focused on supporting my teammates  and fostering an environment where everyone could perform at their best. Competing at  Collingwood further enriched the experience, culminating in our achievement as 2nd Plate  champions. 

Pte Mounir Bouhaltit, Royal Gibraltar Regiment, said (B Coy reserves & Mitie Defence  Employee) “The competition was an incredible and wonderful experience; I was part of an  exceptional team. Thanks to NO1 Trainer for giving me the opportunity. It was great to  represent both Mitie Defence & B Coy at the same time”. 

AB Megan Bevan Royal Navy, one of three women in the Gibraltar team, said “The Field  Gun was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in my military career. It pushed  me beyond my limits, taught me the value of teamwork, resilience and trust, and created  memories and friendships that will stay with me for life. Every challenge was worth it, and I’m  incredibility grateful to have been part something so demanding, inspiring, and unforgettable” 

Commanding Officer of HMS Collingwood, Captain John Cromie RN, said: “It has been  a pleasure to welcome thousands of visitors to our Open Day. It was fantastic to see our  sailors engaging with the community and to give everyone the chance to learn more about  naval life. The Field Gun Competition once again proved to be a highlight, showcasing  outstanding teamwork, determination, and spirit from all participants. My congratulations to  the winning team on a well-deserved victory. Thank you to everyone who helped make this  event such a success. We look forward to welcoming you again next year.”