LNR Cadet completes Leicester 10K to support fellow cadets

A Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland (LNR) Army Cadet Force cadet has completed the Leicester 10K in an impressive 52 minutes, beating his previous personal best while raising money for Army Cadet Charitable Trust UK (ACCT UK).

Cadet Sergeant TJ Borrett, who has been a cadet at Wigston Detachment for nearly four years, spent the summer training for the race. Running is a hobby TJ enjoys, and he wanted to challenge himself by completing a 10K as a starting point to see what he could achieve.

But the challenge also had a personal meaning. TJ decided to use his love of running to give something back to an organisation that has played an important role in his life.

Reflecting on his experiences as a cadet, TJ said: “Being a cadet has given me memories I will never forget, and it’s all possible because of the support from ACCT UK.

“I can’t wait to see what this next year will bring, and I hope to do as much as possible with cadets.”

TJ’s mum, Kelly, explained that the Army Cadets has given him many opportunities, helped him grow in confidence and, perhaps most importantly, supported him through some difficult times.

She said: “For TJ, this wasn’t just about running 10 kilometres or achieving a personal best. It was about challenging himself, showing his appreciation and giving something back to a community that has played such an important role in his life.”

TJ has raised approximately £150 for ACCT UK, helping support other young people who could benefit from the opportunities that have meant so much to him.

Having beaten his personal best in Leicester, TJ is already looking ahead to future challenges, with hopes of running longer distances in 2027 and raising more money to help other cadets.

His achievement shows how cadets can use their interests and personal challenges to make a positive contribution to others.

ACCT UK is the official charity of the Army Cadets, helping young people access opportunities that develop their skills, confidence and potential. Through its support, the charity helps cadets take part in activities and experiences that might otherwise be beyond their reach, ensuring more young people can benefit from being part of the Army Cadet Force. Find out more at acctuk.org.