The third episode of SAS: Who Dares Wins season 8 saw the recruits begin to drop like flies. Before phase three even began, Number 19, Anne became the eighth recruit to withdraw from the course.
In episode 3, the theme was Composure. The phase began on the parade square with a stern briefing from Billy. They then left the base and headed down the river in small boats. Next came a punishing cliff face scramble in 35 degree heat. At the top they faced the next challenge which was a 200-foot abseil into a dark bat-infested cave.
Number 5, Becky maintained her composure and managed a controlled descent to pass the task. Number 11, Zac, didn’t impress due to a lack of control and descending too fast. Number 14, Ross did impress on the descent but then annoyed Billy with his attitude.
Back at base, the DS held a meeting to discuss progress. They decided it was time to bring in Ross for tactical questioning. Ross was unsure of how he was doing on the course. Rudy and Billy explained he was doing well at the tasks but needed to work on his attitude. Ross spoke of the relationship with his father and a tough upbringing. He went on to explain that his father had sadly died of Covid Pnemonia. Billy gave him advice on how to progress.
The next challenge tested the recruits in a market filled with civilians. After running to the market they were given intelligence about a terrorist that had been spotted in the area. The recruits were taken through the market and had to track down the suspect then make a split-second decision whether they posed a risk. Number 18, Levi impressed by correctly identifying the suspect as a risk and taking a shot. Ross was also successful at the task. Number 7, Faye failed by firing shots when there was no threat. Becky also failed after going to pieces after drawing her pistol and then failing to make a decision.
Zak pulled his pistol but rightly chose not to fire when the suspect posed no risk to life. However, when challenged by the DS he changed his mind and apologised for not firing. Back at base he decided he’d had enough and asked to withdraw from the course.
The final task was murderball. The DS called up recruits to face off against each other as they battled in wetlands to win a coconut. Number 2, Grant was first to score a point. Most of the recruits put in a good effort an managed to remain composed throughout the aggressive task. The match descended into chaos when Becky completely lost control of her temper so the DS called time.
Back at base, the DS brought Becky in for questioning. She spoke of wanting to see if she was as strong as people thought she was. Becky explained that her daughter had tragically passed away of cancer at the age of 2½. Foxy and Billy gave her advice on how to progress on the course.
Episode 4
In this episode, what does it take to be a leader? It’s the fourth phase of the course and with just 11 recruits remaining, the DS challenge them to stand up and be counted as they face a hostage rescue mission hoping to spring two abducted recruits.
The second leadership challenge is a punishing head-to-head team ammunition supply race, requiring grit and determination to get the job over the line.
SAS: Who Dares Wins series 8 continues at 9pm Monday 13th February 2023 on Channel 4.
