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RMC achieved gold standard at annual Sandhurst Military Skills Competition

Mishall Rehman April 11, 2017

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The Royal Military College of Canada (RMCC) placed ninth this weekend at the annual Sandhurst Military Skills Competition held at the United States Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, NY.

Not only did RMCC place ninth overall, they ranked fifth in international teams and achieved the gold standard, the top level of recognition for the tournament.

“The remarkable young women and men representing RMC put in months of rigorous training, guided by our dedicated military and fitness staff. Their commitment and perseverance shows the kind of character that Canadians expect and can be proud of in our RMC Officer Cadets,” said BGen. Sean Friday, Commandant, Royal Military College of Canada.

Cadets from the Royal Military College of Canada depart a pistol range during the 2017 Sandhurst Military Skills Competition at West Point, N.Y., April 7. During Sandhurst, 62 teams representing 12 international military academies, four U.S. service academies and eight ROTC programs competed in 11 events throughout a 23-mile course. (U.S. Army photo by: Staff Sgt. Vito T. Bryant)

Held on April 7-8, this two-day competition showcased the skills of 62 teams from 12 countries. Teams are comprised of nine cadets who competed against one another in weapon handling, rifle marksmanship, combat swim (with full gear), trauma/first aid care, problem-solving, leadership challenges and navigating kilometres of difficult terrain.

RMC was the only Canadian team entered this year. The United States entered with 49 teams and the United Kingdom with two. Other countries participating included Australia, Germany, Chile, and Japan.

Since 1967, military academies from around the world have been invited to take part in this prestigious competition. RMCC won Sandhurst from 2005 to 2007, then again in 2009 and 2016.

According to the USMA, the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) presented USMA with a British Officer’s sword as the prize for a competition that provides “the Corps of Cadets with a challenging and rewarding regimental skills competition, which will enhance professional development and military excellence in selected Soldier skills.”