NZDF reservist of the year decided in close contest

NZDF reservist of the year decided in close contest

Christchurch man Lance Corporal (LCPL) Nicholas Hill from 2/4 Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment (RNZIR) is this year’s New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) Reservist of the Year.

Nine Reservists faced off in a closely-fought contest at Trentham Military Camp on Saturday, with the winner only decided late last night.

LCPL Hill won the title over a day of competition, including physical resilience testing which included a 2.4km run, press-ups and sit-ups, before moving on to an endurance course that involved tyre-flipping, leopard-crawling, and negotiating cargo nets, amongst other obstacles.

Competitors were also tested on their weapon handling and marksmanship on the shooting range, followed by activities designed to challenge their planning, adaptability, decision-making and time management skills.

The final test was conducted during a formal dinner at which each contestant presented a speech on a pre-selected topic. By the end of the evening, only a single point separated the top three, with second place going to Gunner Finnian Howie, 11/4 Battery, 16 Field Regiment, and Private Timothy Jones, 5/7 Battalion RNZIR, coming in third.

Reservists are widely distributed throughout the NZDF, and each unit is given the opportunity to nominate a representative to compete. The skills tested in the annual event showcase the unique attributes of the Reserve Force.

In recognition of his achievement, LCPL Hill will have a place in the catafalque guard for Anzac Day 2016 at Gallipoli.

LCPL Hill is a third-year nursing student.

ENDS

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