Paddles & Pedals

Off-Duty Adventures: New Bikes and SUPs Enhance Family Life at RAF Akrotiri

What do you get when you combine 10 shiny new mountain bikes, 5 awesome stand-up paddleboards, and a community ready for adventure? A massive boost to well-being, resilience, and good old-fashioned fun at RAF Akrotiri in Cyprus, all thanks to a generous grant of £12,378 from the NAAFI Fund!

We’re thrilled to share the incredible impact this project has had across the entire RAF Akrotiri community – from our dedicated deployed personnel to their families and everyone in between.

Gear Up and Go!

Forget the daily trudge! The new fleet of mountain bikes has truly transformed how personnel navigate the extensive Station. Not only do they offer a super practical and healthy way to get from A to B, but they’ve also made it easier to access facilities and generally upped the morale ante.

These bikes aren’t just transport; they’re an invitation to get outdoors, stay fit, and even do our bit for the environment.

Catch a Wave (or Just Chill) with the New SUPs!

If you’ve been to the scenery around RAF Akrotiri lately, you might have noticed some happy faces gliding across the water. That’s their fantastic new stand-up paddleboards in action! These aren’t just planks; they’re platforms for physical well-being and some seriously fun social interaction.

From organised Adventurous Training sessions that push boundaries to laid-back recreational paddles, the SUPs have quickly become a favourite. They’re brilliant for team development days, helping build camaraderie and giving everyone a unique way to unwind.

Families, Fun, and Feeling Connected

But it’s not just serving personnel who are reaping the rewards! The NAAFI Fund’s investment has also brought a wave of new activities for families and dependants. These bikes and SUPs have enriched the community life at RAF Akrotiri, creating more opportunities to connect and build that vital support network which is so important during deployments. It’s all about fostering a sense of belonging and making Station life even better!

A High Five to a Happier Community!

This project has undeniably made a lasting contribution to morale, welfare, and overall Unit cohesion at RAF Akrotiri. We want to extend a huge commendation to the team whose initiative secured this fantastic funding and delivered such a tangible improvement to the lived experience for everyone.

So, next time you see someone pedalling past with a grin or gracefully paddling on the water, you’ll know it’s another win for wellness at RAF Akrotiri, powered by the incredible support of the NAAFI Fund!

The NAAFI Fund exists to support projects that enhance welfare and improve quality of life for Service Personnel and their families. If your unit has an inspiring idea, we want to hear from you! Contact us for more info on how to apply @naafisocial

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