July’s event was a Top Gear styled time challenge to get the fastest lap time in Forza Horizon 5. The airport racetrack from the show’s Star in a Reasonably Priced Car segment was part of the game, allowing for the authentic experience. The “reasonably priced” car was a Kia Ceed, the sturdy and reliable vehicle hitting the winding airport track with all the manoeuvrability and acceleration of a school bus, testing challengers’ patience and control.

C4I’s Sam Gillard set the initial benchmark time at 1:43:699, which ended up being the 3rd place score overall. Further competitors from ATC, LSS and Regt rose to the challenge, some managing to pip his score, some getting close but to no avail. The winning slot was taken by Alex McAlister, with a time of 1:41:724 – congratulations! Closely behind him was LSS’ Jordan Roberts, with a time of 1:42:679.

The challenge was undertaken not only by serving personnel but by Air Cadets, who due to a scheduling mishap ended up joining us. They were originally there for a cinema club screening but ended up taking part, much to a lot of their joy. The cadet cadre is another group we can offer gaming events to, and we’re looking to get some dialogue going with their staff to see how we might integrate them into our activities.

Once again the VR was there for all to enjoy, with cadets and challengers alike trying their hand at Beat Saber. The enthusiasm from the cadets was high, with many of them having never tried it before. It was a good chance to get some practice in, since our next planned event is a Beat Saber challenge on the song Radioactive. It’ll be a good test of co-ordination and rhythm, and good fun - we promise you look as cool on the outside as you feel in the world within the headset!