First turns to full potential – Barney’s Alpine Challenge

The Alpine Challenge is not just for seasoned Winter Sports athletes and enthusiasts – it is a wholly inclusive event, open to all skill levels and abilities.

With access to high quality coaching across the event – whether you are a complete beginner or looking to pick up some advanced tricks, personnel can attend the event with confidence, knowing they will receive expert advice on the slopes.

Someone who took advantage of this specialist tuition was Sqn Ldr Barney Polden, now a former RAF Snowboard Squad team member and Advanced Snowboarding Instructor.  From newbie to teacher, Barney shares his experience of why he loves the Alpine Challenge.

“My snowboarding journey began at the Alpine Challenge back in 2006. I was instantly hooked after completing the RAF’s beginner lessons!

Since then, I’ve been fortunate to snowboard for at least a couple of weeks each year, often supporting Station Winter Sports Committees and encouraging people of all abilities to get involved with RAF Snowboarding.

Between 2009 and 2012, I was proud to be part of the RAF Snowboard Squad, competing with the team and serving as Secretary and Treasurer.

I played a key role in securing funding for Squad Race Boards, which significantly boosted our competitiveness and enabled team members to reach their full potential in racing events.

In 2011, I unfortunately broke my arm during an RAF Snowboard Development Training Camp. Despite this setback, the outstanding support from the RAFWSAA and the Central Fund allowed me to pivot my development and achieve my Snowboard Instructor qualifications.

I’ve since enjoyed instructing as a BASI Level 2 Snowboard Instructor, enabling me to safely teach students across the resort.

At the Alpine Challenge 2025, I returned as an advanced Snowboard Instructor. The conditions were fantastic, and I thoroughly enjoyed working with enthusiastic students.

My personal highlight was competing alongside my students in the RAF Snowboard Parallel Grand Slalom and winning the event!

Snowboarding and being in the mountains with like-minded people is a true passion.

I’ve made lifelong friends and met inspirational riders who continue to challenge and motivate me, pushing me to improve my skills and resilience both physically and mentally.

Being an instructor is incredibly rewarding. Seeing the progress and joy in my students – many of whom now compete for the RAF – is one of the greatest aspects of my role.

The Central Fund has been instrumental in my journey, especially regarding the Alpine Challenge, and I am very grateful for all their support.

Holding six tickets in the Sports Lottery has helped me access significant funding for my qualifications, equipment, and event participation. I would encourage anyone interested in sport to play the lottery in support of the charity that directly supports RAF personnel.”