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Chris Green is The History Chap; telling stories that brings the past to life.

What was the inspiration behind the Royal Navy's legendary field gun competition?

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Many of you may recall the Royal Tournament at Earl’s Court in London.
 The world’s premier military tattoo and pageant that was held for over 100 years until 1999.
 You may also recall the highlight of the event,  Royal Navy’s Command Field Gun Competition.

Two teams of 18 men hauling a 12 pound gun and limber (weighing something like 1200 pounds) along a 225 yard course that included obstacles such as a 5 foot high wall and a 28 foot chasm, all  in under 3 minutes.
 It was not for the feint hearted - not only was it gruelling race but men were seriously injured too.

But, where did the idea of this incredible feat of strength, stamina and teamwork come from?

This is the story of the Naval Brigade during the second Anglo-Boer war in South Africa 1899-1902.

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