1960: Four adventurers set off in folding canoes, aiming to win an Adventure Trophy.
The team, led by Staff Sergeant Mike Gardner (34) and Corporal Dave Stephens (23), attempted to paddle around Cyprus, a journey of 280 miles in uncertain seas. Joining them were Sergeant Pete Bowker (21) and Gunner Anthony Vane in the second canoe named “Edna.”
Equipped with a week’s emergency rations, water, and one blanket per man, they began their expedition at Dhekelia Beach Yacht Club. Keeping close to the coast, they paddled steadily and were sighted near Cape Greco by evening.
The team planned to take 15 days, with nightly bivouacs on shore.
They also took land routes at four points, including Cape Andreas and Cape Kormakiti, pulling their canoes on specially made trolleys from REME workshops.
Despite the treacherous seas, the adventurers aimed to reach Kyrenia by Wednesday evening.
In related news, an RAF Akrotiri man cycled around Cyprus, and eight paratroopers set a new marathon darts record.