Working and fighting in 40° heat is no-one’s idea of fun, but as we all know our troops in Afghanistan do it day in, day out with little time for relaxation. But added to that, when you are a keen snowboarder, it’s even less fun as snowboards don’t go very well on sand and rocks or for that matter, shrapnel! To help brighten up the days for the Army’s winter sports enthusiasts, SnOasis has taken up an opportunity to sponsor The 16th Signal Regiment Snowboarding Team. The team along with the rest of their regiment are currently operating from a base in Halmand province and are obviously counting the days until they can get to a cooler climate and some welcoming snow.

Soon after their deployment has been completed, followed by some well-deserved rest and relaxation, they will be heading off to take part in “Exercise SNOW JACK XII” in Kaprun, Austria. The aim of the exercise is to bring new talent to the snow sports scene and prepare soldiers for Division and Army level championships.

The exercise and championships are held over a two-week period that has been running annually since 1997. All personnel serving in the Royal Corps of Signals both full time and reserves are eligible to compete. Overall the event has introduced around 500 soldiers to the sport giving them an opportunity to develop key skills in adventurous training outside their normal working environment.

Before the main championship starts there is a week of intensive training co-ordinated by one of Europe’s top snowboarding schools. Races are held during the second week with teams and individuals competing in: Slalom, Dual Slalom, Slope Style and Snowboard Cross.

Due to the growing standard of competitors and media interest the sponsorship from SnOasis is needed to help cover the team’s equipment, clothing, travel and living expenses throughout the two-week competition in order to give them the best opportunity for success.


The 16th Signal Regiment Snowboarding Team, Royal Corps of Signals, on detachment in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

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