Story ; Nana Kofi Agyemang (2 Garrison PR Detach)

Pictures:  Aircraftman Class I Ankomah Robert Peters

The Diamond Squadron of Recruit Course 1/2026 has emerged overall winner of the 2026 Inter-Squadron Steeple Chase Competition held at the Air Force Recruit Training School (AFRTS), Takoradi, on Wednesday, 5 August 2026.

The squadron secured an impressive 4,694 points to clinch the coveted title, outperforming Falcon Squadron, Casa Squadron and MI-17 Squadron, which placed second, third and fourth respectively.

During the competition, the recruits embarked on a gruelling 13-kilometre endurance march around Takoradi, carrying heavy packs and rifles through challenging terrain. Upon returning to the training school, they negotiated a series of obstacle challenges, including a four-foot bar, vertical and horizontal rope climbs and a tunnel before crossing the finish line.

At the end of the competition, Recruit Dauda Iddrisu was adjudged the Best Runner, while Recruit Salisu Eunice received the award for Best Female Runner. The outstanding performers were presented with trophies, medals and certificates amid cheers from colleagues and spectators.

Addressing the recruits after the competition, the Reviewing Officer, Support Group Commander, Group Captain Ransford Odenkey Abbey, reminded the recruits that the primary responsibility of the military was to protect the people of Ghana and stressed that the physical strength, combat skills and confidence they acquired during training should never be used to intimidate or brutalise civilians, but rather to safeguard lives and property, render selfless service and defend the nation whenever called upon.

He urged the recruits to remain focused and committed throughout their training, cautioning them against laziness, indiscipline and complacency. He also encouraged them to uphold the core military values of discipline, loyalty, integrity and dedication to duty, adding that, perseverance and determination would be essential to completing the demanding training programme. Group Captain Odenkey commended the recruits for their outstanding performance, and also lauded the administrative staff and instructors for the successful organisation and conduct of the event.

The annual Inter-Squadron Steeple Chase Competition is a physically demanding military endurance exercise designed to test the recruits' fitness, stamina and resilience while fostering teamwork, camaraderie and discipline.

The ceremony was attended by the Base Commander, Air Force Base Takoradi, Air Commodore Eric Yirenkyi; the Commanding Officer, AFRTS, Wing Commander Nii Okine Ayi Benoni, Commanding Officers of the various wings, Officers, Senior Non-Commissioned Officers, Airmen, and Defence Civilian Staff.