RMA member Conrad Goss is a Wounded Injured or Sick (WIS) Veteran who will be completing 100 miles on foot, made up of ten 10-mile laps between CLR Chivenor and Barnstable along the Tarka Trail later this month.
Conrad spent most of his childhood in Devon and aspired to become a Royal Marine, but due to parental pressures, he joined the Army. Still aspiring to obtain the coveted Green Lid through the All-Arms Commando Course, he was sadly injured in training, and Conrad’s hopes were dashed twice.
Serving for 10 years with Royal Military Police and Royal Army Ordinance Corps, following two cardiac arrests and resuscitations as well as Gulf War illness, his career was brought to an abrupt end. After discharge from regular service, he returned to Devon and was a Reservist with 29 Cdo Regt RA. Leaving in 1995 because of ongoing leg and back injuries and PTSD.
Finding recovery through sport, Conrad has set himself and achieved many impressive physical challenges, including trekking to Everest Base Camp in May of this year and has competed in three Rehab Triathlons since 2021, which led to his being part of the Invictus Games. Conrad trained to compete in the Giant Slalom Skiing race with the Armed Forces Para Snowsport Team for the UK, a stepping stone to the GB Paralympics Ski Team as there are already members who now skit for Team Para GB.
This challenge was originally planned to be completed in 2012 to mark the 30th anniversary of the Falklands War, but life took an unexpected turn, which meant he had to postpone the event. Inspired by his RM aspirations, he still chooses to live the Commando Spirit and mindset and is back to complete the challenge on 25 July. Looking forward to this tough challenge, Conrad said,
“I’m still of the state of mind to be able to help the Royal Marines Charity, veterans, and families and make a difference even if it’s in a small way as an individual, so why don’t you come and join me on the Tarka Trail on this extreme fundraising challenge. ‘Together’ we can make a bigger difference to those that need it. I aim to show that despite the many challenges many Veterans face day to day, that with courage, determination, unselfishness, and cheerfulness in the face of adversity and the right mindset, we can all adapt, overcome, and achieve something of excellence, not just for the Royal Marines Charity but for yourself in life in general.”
Conrad will be joined along the route by members of HELLBERG Troop and RMA North Devon during this endeavour to fundraise for RMA – The Royal Marines Charity, to raise awareness for the Veteran Community and has said he is
“giving what my body has left to give to this amazing Charity and this is what drives me.”
More information about Conrad and his goals can be found through his JustGiving page: Conrad Goss is fundraising for RMA – The Royal Marines Charity (justgiving.com)
