In a powerful appeal to the nation's fittest women, a senior Royal Marines colonel has revealed that despite revised physical standards, not a single female recruit has successfully completed the gruelling commando training course.
The Unconquered Challenge
Colonel Phil Kelly, who commands the Commando Training Centre, disclosed that while women have been eligible to attempt the course for several years, the fearsome commando tests remain unconquered by female personnel. The revelation comes despite the introduction of gender-neutral standards in 2018.
A Call to Elite Athletes
The colonel is now making a direct appeal to elite sportswomen and top-level athletes who possess the physical and mental fortitude required. "We need those women who are at the top of their physical game to consider this challenge," Colonel Kelly stated.
The Gruelling Requirements
The commando course represents one of the military's most demanding trials, requiring candidates to:
- Complete a six-mile loaded march in 1 hour 45 minutes carrying 21kg
- Pass the gruelling Tarzan assault course
- Endure the infamous 30-mile endurance march across Dartmoor
- Survive the gruelling nine-mile speed march
Breaking Down Barriers
While physical standards remain uncompromised, the Royal Marines have implemented significant changes to support female candidates. These include tailored nutritional guidance, specialised kit development, and modified training approaches to accommodate physiological differences.
Colonel Kelly emphasised that the standards themselves haven't been lowered, but the approach to preparing female candidates has evolved based on scientific understanding of female physiology under extreme stress.
The Psychological Battle
Beyond physical strength, the colonel highlighted the immense mental resilience required. "It's not just about being physically strong enough," he explained. "It's about that indomitable spirit that keeps going when every fibre of your being is screaming to stop."
The Future of Women in the Marines
The Royal Marines remain committed to achieving true gender integration at the commando level. With several women currently in training and more expected to attempt the course, military leaders are confident the barrier will soon be broken.
"When that first woman passes out with her green beret," Colonel Kelly concluded, "it will be a monumental day for both the individual and the Royal Marines as an institution."
