Jack Laurence

Along the way, they face simulated enemy attacks, medical emergencies, water crossings and basically no sleep.

It has been held every year since 1959 and soldiers come from more than 30 countries to take part.

Finishing it at all is considered an achievement.

Finishing it with a gold medal puts you in an elite category altogether.

This was the world Jamie was moving in.

Known formally as Pegasus Company or simply PCOY, it is the British Army's pre-parachute selection course and a mandatory gateway for anyone who wants to serve with a parachute regiment.

It's widely considered one of the toughest selection processes in any military on Earth.

The course builds to a brutal test week.

Eight events in five days.

Candidates face a log race, carrying a telegraph pole with seven others across nearly two miles of rough terrain.

A steeplechase, a timed cross-country run through water obstacles done in boots and a helmet.

An assault course built 60 feet off the ground, specifically designed to confront the fear of heights.

And then there's milling.

60 seconds in a boxing ring where the only rule is that you keep moving forward.

Judges aren't looking for skill.

They're looking for controlled aggression and the refusal to stop.

The whole thing ends with a 20 mile march with full pack to be completed in under four hours.

Those who make it through earn the right to wear what is known as the maroon beret, the symbol of the British paratrooper.

And Jamie was taking this on as his next challenge.

Chapter 2.