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Navy Field Gunners celebrate past and look to future with 125th anniversary event
10 March 2025
For the first time field gunners from all variations of the legendary naval contest gathered in Portsmouth to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the event which sparked it.
The actions of sailors in the Siege of Ladysmith during the Boer War in 1899-1900 entered national and naval folklore: guns from warships were dismantled and turned into field guns, then transported more than 100 miles inland.
On the final leg the guns were carried and hauled by men of the Naval Brigade over harsh terrain, before joining battle and ultimately relieving the beleaguered troops.
Deeds on the battlefield gave birth to one of the toughest and most iconic competitions in Royal Navy history: the Field Gun Competition.
In various formats, from the legendary run each year at the Royal Tournament for more than nine decades, to the Brickwoods race today hosted at HMS Collingwood and junior/cadet runs, the Field Gun tradition has played a key, recurring role in fostering teamwork, discipline, and military heritage.
It was incredible to see all aspects of the Field Gun family come together to honour this milestone.
Event photos by: Ben Watson Media.
To celebrate all that it means to the Senior Service past and present, all branches of Field Gun were represented at a single event aboard HMS Warrior: Command, Brickwoods (Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity), Junior Leaders, and Cadets.
"It was incredible to see all aspects of the Field Gun family come together to honour this milestone," said Capt Alex Clark, Royal Horse Artillery, event coordinator.
"This event not only paid tribute to our history but also reinforced the bonds of camaraderie that define the Field Gun community."
Beyond commemorating past deeds the event, which was supported by the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, served as an opportunity to inspire future generations. Young cadets and junior leaders engaged with experienced field gunners, learning first-hand about the discipline, teamwork, and perseverance which define the competition.
‘’The relief of Ladysmith forged a legacy of courage, teamwork, and determination that lives on today in Royal Navy Field Gun," said Commodore Steve Bolton, chairman of RN Field Gun.
"It is my distinct privilege to lead this fantastic sport, and to witness Gunners of all ages pushing themselves to their physical limits on the track."
He continued: "Whilst the format has changed over the years, the commitment, enthusiasm and ‘never say die’ attitude of the crews who compete is awe-inspiring to witness.
"My sincere wish is for the legacy of Ladysmith to endure for another 125 years, because in field gun, we have a winning formula for showcasing the ‘fighting spirit’ that is synonymous with our Armed Forces.’’
Establishment and units are currently recruiting for the 2025 competition. Contact your PT department for more information or WO2 Daniel Tregarthen / [email protected]