Student cycles with Army Reserve

Thomas Worth, who has recently completed his degree in War Studies at the University of Wolverhampton, has returned from Cyprus after taking part in a cycle challenge set by the University’s Army Reserves.

The University of Wolverhampton became one of the first institutions to offer staff and students military training with its own Army reserve platoon.

The platoon offers positions for staff and students to receive basic army training, learn military skills, and take part in activities like climbing, scuba diving and kayaking.

The 22 year old, cycled over 450 miles in 10 days whilst also raising over £1,200 for charity including a combat stress charity and the Mercian benevolent fund.

Battling with the heat, the cycle challenge included; riding up steep hills, cycling in a huge peloton, and climbing over 8, 000ft from sea level.

Speaking about the trip, Thomas said: “The trip was absolutely brilliant, I am a big cyclist, and to be able to go out and explore the beauty of Cyprus was like a dream for me.

“I must admit, the final 10 miles were very steep and exhausting but the suffering was worth the sense of achievement I felt when we had completed the challenge.”

Since the age of 17, Thomas has experienced opportunities at a young age during his time with the army reserve such as; travelling the world, scuba diving parachuting, working at the Olympics, VIP experiences, attending the Olympics closing ceremony, being in the presence of the President of Nigeria.

Thomas was able earn a decent income with the reserves throughout university studies.

Thomas, from Plymouth added: “The army reserves were always supportive and encouraging when it came to my studies.

“At the University of Wolverhampton there are plenty of students within our unit, which really helped as we could support each other throughout our studies and our service - I even ended up sharing a house with two colleagues.”

Thomas is set to graduate this summer and intends to continue his service with the army reserves.

To find out more about the University of Wolverhampton Reserve Platoon.

ENDS

For more information please contact Danielle Taylor in the Media Relations Office on
01902 322448

Date Issued: 4 July 2014