Cyprus’ First Doko Race Raises Funds and Awareness for Gurkha Veterans

On Wednesday 8th November 2023, members of British Forces Cyprus personnel took part in Cyprus’ first ever Doko race. The race saw participants run 5 kilometres in teams of four whilst carrying a traditional ‘Doko’ basket weighted with 10 kilograms. The aim of the event was to promote understanding of Nepalese culture and the selection process for Gurkha soldiers as well as to raise funds for The Gurkha Welfare Trust.

The selection process to become a Gurkha is intense; in addition to English grammar and mathematics tests, initiative and medical assessments and interviews with serving officers, candidates face gruelling fitness tests. These include a ‘Doko race’, which involves carrying 25kg of sand while running up a steep 4.2km course which they must complete in under 46 minutes. Becoming a Gurkha is a matter of great pride. Thousands of young Nepali men apply, but few are accepted. This year, out of 20,000 applicants only 204 were selected.

Ten teams of four people took part in Cyprus’ first Doko race raising an incredible €720 to help support our work in Nepal to help Gurkha veterans and their widows live with dignity. Two teams from 15 Squadron, RAF Regiment came out on top, completing the race in 28 minutes and 19 seconds.

The winning teams: