Soldier takes on Fan Dance to raise money for charity

22 February 2021

CSgt James Doyle has set himself the challenge of completing 21 marches of 15.5 miles during the month of February to raise money for two charities, including SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity.

CSgt James Doyle, 4 Rifles, works at the Infantry Battle School in Brecon and to celebrate his 21st year in the Army, wants to raise £21,000 for both SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity and Barnados.

The Fan Dance is a hard 15-mile load-bearing trek up and over South Wales' highest peak, Pen y Fan, and considered a right of passage for all infantry NCOs

James is planning to complete not one, but 21 marches whilst carrying a 25kg load. On his final march over the same course, he planned on carrying a 50kg casualty simulation dummy, plus his usual 25kg load, totalling an incredible 75kg.

Unfortunately due to the Covid-19 lockdown, James is unable to complete his marches in the Brecon Beacons, but will be completing the challenge in his local area around Brecon instead.

James said: “I’m fundraising for SSAFA as this is my 21st year in the Army and it has given a huge amount to my life and so many others. I am hoping to raise £21,000 for the two charities and will record all progress in Strava.”