From Dieppe to Paris: Court Moor Cadet Takes on 160-Mile Challenge!

This May half term, Year 10 student and Court Moor CCF cadet Alex C completed an extraordinary 160-mile cycle from Dieppe to the heart of Paris — all to raise funds for our very own Combined Cadet Force.
 
Fresh from a cadet training camp, Alex embarked on the six-day journey leading relatives across three generations. Battling extreme weather, long hill climbs, and even illness, Alex remained determined to finish what he started. His route followed the scenic and tranquil Avenue Verte through Normandy and Île-de-France, with memorable stops in Gournay-en-Bray, Reilly, Rueil and Bois de Boulogne. The final day saw Alex cycle to Arc de Triomphe, down the Champs Elysées (just before the riots!!), passed the Louvre, crossing over Pont Neuf onto Île de la Cité and finally finishing at the Point Zero in front of Notre Dame Cathedral.
 
The trip wasn’t just about the physical challenge. Alex’s motivation came from a deep belief in what the cadet programme offers: “Cadets has given me so much — confidence, friendship, and leadership skills. I wanted to do something meaningful to help our unit grow and give others the same opportunities.”
 
The effort comes at a special time for Court Moor’s CCF, which recently received its own school standard from Hart District Council. Alex has been amazed by the kind donations already received, which have topped £1,000 and will go directly towards new kit, improved training, and supporting more students who want to join. You can still support Alex’s mission here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/alex-clements-1