Soldiers Embark on Grueling 10-Week Endurance Challenge for Armed Forces Charity
Two dedicated young serving soldiers are preparing to push themselves to their absolute physical limits as they undertake four major endurance events in support of SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity. Lance Corporal Kyle Flaherty, aged 26 from Keighley, and Private Harry Wilcock, aged 19 from Leeds, both serve with 6 Regiment Royal Logistic Corps based at Dishforth, near Ripon in North Yorkshire.
Four Major Events Across 90 Miles of Endurance Sport
Their ambitious 10-week challenge will see them tackle a series of demanding competitions including triathlons, a marathon, and a 36-mile ultramarathon. Together, they will compete in:
- Ribby Hall Triathlon in Preston on March 22
- Harrogate Triathlon on April 26
- Leeds Marathon on May 10
- Tsunami Ocean Trails 36-mile ultramarathon on June 6
Across these four events, the determined pair will cover more than 90 miles of endurance sport, combining swimming, cycling, and running disciplines in what promises to be their most physically demanding challenge to date.
Lance Corporal Kyle Flaherty: Military Driver and Rock-Climbing Coach
Kyle Flaherty has served in the Army for five years as a Lance Corporal and military driver. Beyond his operational duties, he serves as a rock-climbing coach and instructor within the Army, where he manages and develops his own climbing team. Although an accomplished sportsman, the Ribby Hall Triathlon will mark his first-ever triathlon competition.
Kyle explained: "This challenge represents the biggest and most demanding test I have set myself so far. It's something that both scares and inspires me in equal measure. SSAFA provides immediate, compassionate support to serving personnel and veterans who may be in crisis, and that's something I'm proud to support."
Private Harry Wilcock: Determined to Build a Full Military Career
Harry Wilcock began his military journey at just 16 years old, completing his training at the Army Foundation College Harrogate before qualifying as a driver and joining 6 Regiment RLC. Now 19, he is determined to build a full military career and sees this challenge as an opportunity to give back to the Armed Forces community.
Harry stated: "SSAFA does incredible work supporting both serving personnel and veterans. The care, dedication and practical help they provide makes a real difference to the Armed Forces community. I'm proud to take on this challenge for a charity so closely connected to service life."
Strong Family Military Heritage
Both soldiers come from families with strong military service traditions. Kyle's grandfather served in The Royal Tank Regiment during the Second World War, while Harry's grandfather completed National Service in the 1950s. This family heritage adds personal significance to their fundraising efforts for SSAFA, which has been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885.
Supporting the Armed Forces Community
SSAFA provides vital practical, emotional, and financial assistance to serving personnel, veterans, and their families across the region when they need it most. The charity's volunteers have been helping the Armed Forces community - including regulars and reserves, whether serving or retired, and their families - for nearly 140 years.
The two soldiers hope to raise at least £1,500 through their JustGiving page, with every donation going directly to SSAFA to support their important work. Their fundraising efforts represent a significant commitment beyond their regular military duties, demonstrating their dedication to supporting fellow service members through challenging times.
