A TEAM of British Army Gurkha soldiers is preparing to face one of the world’s toughest sporting events in North Yorkshire.

The five soldiers from the Gurkha Company, 2nd Infantry Battalion, based at Catterick Garrison, will brave the Yorkshire Spartan Sprint at Ellington Barracks, Ripon, on Sunday, September 28.

The 5km cross-country obstacle course featuring 15 military-style obstacles is designed to bring out the “inner warrior” in racers.

The soldiers will take part as the Gurkha Warriors Team. They have been putting in extra training for their debut Spartan Race - and are relishing the opportunity to take part.

Team captain Lance Corporal Amar Gurung said: “It was my idea to build a team.

“A friend did a Spartan Race two or three years ago in the Midlands and he won it. He said it was quite tough but also lots of fun, and he recommended that I try it. He was a good runner.

“Staying fit and healthy is good for everyone whether they are from the military or not. The Spartan Race will help people, as they will have to train for the event and this will help maintain their fitness.”

The team includes Cpl Nishan Rai, 24, L Cpl Bhupendra Rai, 27, L Cpl Prabin Jabegu, 26, L Cpl Mukum Hembya, 23, and L Cpl Amar Gurung, 25.