On 24 November 2024, a team of nine from the British Forces Brunei Regimental Administrative Office Department, led by Private Tej Bahadur Gaha, successfully tackled the gruelling Alpha Run, one of Brunei’s most demanding obstacle course challenges. The 10km race, featuring 15 challenging obstacles, saw a turnout of approximately 15,000 participants.
The team dedicated their free time on the lead up to the event for rigorous training, focusing on teamwork and individual endurance. Their competitive spirit, however, was primarily internal, emphasizing mutual support and encouragement rather than direct competition with other teams. The Alpha Run presented a diverse array of tough obstacles to overcome.
The Rope Climbing proved to be the most formidable obstacle. At 20 feet, it tested the climbers’ strength, grip, and determination. Despite the initial struggle, the team persevered, conquering the challenge and triumphantly ringing the bell at the top. The Tug of Alpha, involved the arduous task of pulling a 60kg boulder for 10m, this presented a significant hurdle for many. However, through combined effort and unwavering resolve, the team overcame this obstacle.
The intense Brunei heat posed a significant challenge throughout the race. However, the refreshing plunge into the icy water of the Sub Zero obstacle provided a much-needed respite from the scorching temperatures. The team completed the race in an impressive time of 1hr 8mins, showcasing their exceptional teamwork and individual fitness. Following the race, the team enjoyed a celebratory lunch, sharing their experiences and valuable lessons learned.
For many team members, the Alpha Run marked their first foray into obstacle course racing. The event proved to be an invaluable experience, fostering camaraderie, pushing personal limits, and inspiring a desire to conquer future challenges.
