1 CMBG teams tackle Sinister 7 100 mile relay on Ex SINISTER RAM
September 4, 2025 - Lt(N) Josh Ehnisz, Public Affairs Officer, 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group
A strong spirit of camaraderie and community engagement developed and grew at 1 CMBG over the summer as four teams prepared to compete in a gruelling test of physical endurance.
On July 12, those four teams put their preparations to the test as they competed in the Sinister 7 100‑mile relay race in Southern Alberta’s Crowsnest Pass. This was the Brigade's first official entry into the demanding race, and the soldiers showcased their physical endurance while their teams delivered an impressive performance.
Captain Patrick Jireada, who organized the exercise, noted the importance of this milestone.
"Soldiers from the Brigade have participated in the past in an unofficial capacity,” he said. “Having them supported by Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services and the Brigade to enter official teams is a tremendous opportunity. It allows our soldiers to enhance their fitness levels in a new way."
He further emphasized the rigorous training required in the lead‑up to the event significantly improved their readiness for military tasks.
The Sinister 7 is renowned for testing participants' limits, winding through rugged terrains and picturesque landscapes that offer both beauty and challenges. Each 1 CMBG team consisted of soldiers from different units, embodying the brigade’s commitment to fostering teamwork and collaboration. By bridging military and civilian experiences through this event, the soldiers not only connected with community members but also promoted a high level of fitness—a crucial component of their demanding roles.
The involvement in what the Brigade termed Exercise SINISTER RAM not only underscored the physical capabilities of each team member, but also highlighted the values of dedication and perseverance that are fundamental to military life. As the teams navigated the challenging relay course, they showcased exceptional endurance and strategic teamwork, securing commendable results along the way.
Corporal Sydney Tremblay expressed pride in their participation.
"Competing in this challenging race allows us to showcase the military's capabilities and push our limits,” she said. “It’s an honour to represent our Brigade. Each of us had the opportunity to tackle a portion of the race, and working together fosters strong relationships with our colleagues. It's an experience we should definitely pursue in the future."
Members of 1 CMBG compete in the Sinister 7 100‑mile relay race on July 12. Dubbed Exercise SINISTER RAM by 1 CMBG participants, the race involves seven‑person teams, with each member tackling one of the seven legs that span a total of 100 miles through the Crowsnest Pass in the mountains of Southern Alberta.
Photo by Sinister 7 Ultra photo team
Corporal Sydney Tremblay running her relay leg during Exercise SINISTER RAM on July 12.
Photo by Sinister 7 Ultra photo team
The event provided an unparalleled opportunity for soldiers to strengthen bonds with one another, fostering relationships across various units that may not interact as frequently during regular training. The shared experience of overcoming physical challenges created lasting memories and connections, ultimately nurturing a deeper sense of unity within the brigade.
Reflecting on the experience, Lieutenant Roy Wang emphasized the significance of collaboration.
"[Ex] SINISTER RAM offers our teams a valuable opportunity to work together in a challenging environment,” he said. “It fosters unity and teamwork. Personally, the social aspect was my favourite; speaking with other competitors during the race and learning about their experiences drove me to focus on bettering my own fitness."
As the teams crossed the finish line, they did so as not only representatives of 1 CMBG but also as ambassadors of resilience and teamwork. The success of Ex SINISTER RAM stands as a testament to the brigade's dedication to training and community engagement, setting a positive precedent for future participation in similar events.
Overall, the inaugural involvement of 1 CMBG in the Sinister 7 100‑mile relay race celebrates both physical achievement and the spirit of community. It reinforces the importance of camaraderie among soldiers while inspiring others to engage in fitness and teamwork. The brigade looks forward to building on this experience in the coming years, continuing to strengthen ties within the community, and promote the high standards of service and fitness that define the Canadian Armed Forces.
A member of 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group’s Shilo team crossing the finish line of their relay leg during Exercise SINISTER RAM. The Shilo team successfully completed the Sinister 7 race in 27 hours 16 minutes and 30 seconds.
Photo by Sinister 7 Ultra photo team
A member of the 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group–1 Service Battalion team makes his way over a hill during his Exercise SINISTER RAM relay leg on July 12.
Photo by Sinister 7 Ultra photo team
A member of the 1 CMBG Light Horsecastors team running their leg of the Sinister 7 race. The 1 CMBG Light Horsecastors successfully completed their relay in 23 hours 43 minutes and 51 seconds.
Photo by Sinister 7 Ultra photo team
A member of 1 Canadian Mechanized Brigade Group Headquarters and Signals Squadron team crosses the finish line at the end of their relay leg on July 12.
Photo by Sinister 7 Ultra photo team