Gurkhas Conquer One of Britain’s Toughest Military Challenges

Kathmandu, September 29, 2026

Gurkhas Take the Top Spot

The First Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles secured first place in the Military TAB team competition at PARAS’10 2026, held at Catterick in the United Kingdom on September 26, 2026, competing against more than 115 teams in a demanding endurance event designed to test physical fitness, teamwork and resilience. The battalion also finished as the overall runner-up in the Free Run team category, giving the Gurkhas two major results from the competition.

Who Won for 1 RGR?

The winning Military TAB team consisted of Lance Corporal Rohan Pithakote, who served as team captain, along with Rifleman Prince Sherpa, Rifleman Prakash GM and Rifleman Mausham GC. Sergeant Rohit Budha served as the team officer in charge.

Another Podium Finish

The battalion's Free Run team also finished runner-up. That team was led by Lance Corporal Limbu and included Rifleman Bishnu Rana Magar, Rifleman Manoj Roka Magar and Rifleman Rajan Pun Magar.

Another Gurkha Team Shines

The Gurkha performance extended beyond 1 RGR. 250 Gurkha Signal Squadron, 30 Signal Regiment, also reported a runner-up finish in the Free Run category, while Signaller Roshan Thapa recorded a course-record time of 58 minutes and 3 seconds, according to the Gurkha Brigade Association.

What Is PARAS’10?

PARAS’10 is a 10-mile endurance event associated with the Parachute Regiment. The official event website publishes separate TAB and Run results for its Catterick competition, with the military TAB format providing the more demanding military-style challenge. The 2026 Catterick edition took place at Vimy Barracks, Catterick Garrison.

Why the Result Matters

The result highlights the fitness and endurance standards maintained by Gurkha soldiers serving in the British Army. The Gurkha Brigade Association said the performance demonstrated the participants' teamwork, determination, endurance and resilience across the physically demanding competition.