Connaught Trust Grant Supports Exercise GOLDEN LION in the Austrian Alps
More than 120 soldiers and officers from across the Adjutant General's Corps travelled to Neustift im Stubaital, Austria, in September 2026 for Exercise GOLDEN LION, a large-scale adventurous training expedition designed to develop leadership, resilience and teamwork through challenging mountain activities.
The Connaught Trust awarded a grant of £1,500 towards the costs of Reserve personnel participating in the expedition, which combined mountain trekking, rock climbing and mountain biking, providing opportunities to develop new skills while operating in a demanding environment.
Challenging activities in the Austrian Alps
Set against the backdrop of the Austrian Alps, the expedition offered many participants their first experience of climbing on natural rock faces or navigating technical alpine bike trails.
The mountain environment presented both physical and mental challenges. Participants undertook long mountain treks over steep terrain, developed climbing techniques on a variety of rock routes and improved their confidence while tackling increasingly complex climbs.
The mountain biking phase tested fitness, concentration and decision-making as riders negotiated technical descents, uneven terrain and rapidly changing weather conditions.
Throughout the expedition, participants were required to support one another, adapt to unforeseen challenges and demonstrate leadership in unfamiliar situations.
One participant commented:
"The climbing taught me to trust both my equipment and my teammates, while mountain biking pushed me out of my comfort zone and improved my confidence. I learned that resilience is often about taking the next step, even when things become difficult."
Developing leadership, confidence and resilience
Beyond the adventure itself, the expedition delivered significant personal and professional benefits. Participants developed greater self-confidence, leadership skills and resilience, while gaining experience of working closely with colleagues from different units and backgrounds.
The shared challenges of climbing, trekking and mountain biking strengthened teamwork and fostered relationships that will continue long after the expedition ended.
The impact on the Corps was equally significant. Participants returned to their units with enhanced problem-solving abilities, improved communication skills and greater confidence in leading others.
The expedition also inspired many to pursue further adventurous training opportunities and qualifications, helping to build future capability within the Corps.
Exercise GOLDEN LION demonstrated how adventurous training can enhance military effectiveness by developing adaptable, resilient and confident personnel.
Through the challenges of the Austrian mountains, participants gained valuable experiences that will benefit both their future military service and their personal development.
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