Corporal Paige Atwell of the Defence School of Transport has been crowned Forces Strongest Woman in a groundbreaking competition that showcases the exceptional talent and determination of UK military personnel.
Cpl Atwell, who serves as a Defence General Service Driver Conversion Instructor, claimed the title in April 2025 at the inaugural Forces Strongest competition. Her outstanding performance has earned her an invitation to compete at the prestigious WHEA British Championships on 6 July in York.
"Competing in strongwoman events has been a fantastic complement to my military career," said Cpl Atwell, who has been participating in civilian strongwoman competitions for three years. "I'm honoured to represent the Armed Forces at the upcoming British Championships."
A passionate advocate for women in traditionally male-dominated sports, Cpl Atwell has been instrumental in transforming the landscape of military athletics. Her trailblazing efforts have opened doors for countless female service personnel to engage in both ice hockey and strongwoman competitions.
"We're seeing incredible talent emerge when women are given the opportunity and platform to compete," Cpl Atwell enthused. "Breaking barriers isn't just about personal achievement – it's about creating pathways for others to follow."
Cpl Atwell's dedication to women's sports is perhaps most evident in her pivotal role developing military ice hockey. After attending an all-female "Learn to Play" training camp, she spearheaded the creation of the Army's first women's ice hockey team, the Fury, established in August 2023. She currently serves as both Team Manager and Assistant Captain.
"From our first training camp to competing against established teams at the UKAF Inter Service Championships last year, the progress of Army women's ice hockey has been remarkable," Cpl Atwell commented. "The enthusiasm and dedication these women bring to the ice is absolutely inspiring."
Her involvement in military ice hockey began during a posting in Canada (2018-2019), where she was appointed Team Captain of the Chieftains. Upon returning to the UK, she joined the Royal Logistic Corps ice hockey team, the RLC Chiefs, where she now serves as Assistant Captain and transport manager.
In her primary role at the Defence School of Transport, Cpl Atwell instructs military personnel in essential combat driving scenarios, including convoy operations, tactical deployment, and vehicle camouflage techniques. She also conducts Troop Commanders training on Land Rovers.
Cpl Atwell recently completed her strongman/woman coaching qualification in June 2024 under the guidance of three-time UK's Strongest Man champion Paul Smith. Her commitment to developing the sport led her to organise a Forces Strongman/woman competition at the Defence School of Transport in October 2024. She took third place at an RAF Cosford competition in August 2024, which qualified her for the historic Forces Strongest competition where she ultimately claimed the title.
"What excites me most is seeing more women step forward to try these sports for the first time," said Cpl Atwell. "Whether it's hitting the ice or lifting Atlas stones, watching women discover their strength and potential is what drives me to continue breaking new ground."
