Paramedics offer up a royal challenge

Wednesday 25 November 2015

Jersey's uniformed services are being royally challenged to go head-to-head with the Ambulance Service and see who's the strongest and fittest with a sack of spuds.

The paramedics are among a number of teams to sign up for this weekend's Great Jersey Potato Sack Carry Challenge.

The race is on again this Sunday and will see runners climbing 500 very steep metres up Le Chemin du Catel carrying a sackful of spuds and raising money for Jersey Cheshire Home and The Jersey Brain Tumour Charity.

Jersey Ambulance Service's Team Captain Gary Vibert said: “This is a fun event which I am really keen to urge our fellow uniform services to get in the spirit and join us. It’s as much about team work as it is about strength and we’re really looking forward to pulling together on the day to claim a victory.”

But they'll have some competition for the title - Jersey Cheshire Home are putting their own team of physiotherapists and care staff forward for the challenge for the third consecutive year.

Steve Martin team member and senior physiotherapist said: “It’s a hard event but a good laugh, we’ve been having twice weekly training sessions for the last 2 months now and I can’t see anyone else winning but us!”

Organiser Tim De Gruchy said: “A bit of healthy competition among the teams is very welcome and we urge any others who are still considering taking part to sign up and secure their place in what looks to be the best Challenge to date. 

"Whether you're entering as a team of 4, a partnership or as an individual this event is a must on the fun calendar. We look forward to welcoming anyone.”

Albert Bartlett is providing the sacks of spuds again this year, weighing 15kg for the women to carry and 25kg for the men.

If you’re game you can sign up online here. 

Fancy dress is welcomed but not compulsory but this is one sport where there’s no lycra allowed!