After a competitive match-up that exemplified grit, readiness, and lethality from all competing teams, U.S. Military Academy Sandhurst Team Black overcame each challenge to claim the top prize during this year's Sandhurst International Military Skills Competition May 2-3 at West Point.
The event consisted of 48 teams: five service academy teams, 10 United States Corps of Cadet teams, 16 from the Reserve Officers' Training Corp, and 17 international teams.
The competition spanned 30 miles, with each team battling 14 uniquely challenging obstacle courses that tested their ability as future leaders. On day one, cadets faced the Zodiac course (boat navigation), grenade assault course, weapons assembly, physical fitness, and providing medical care for notional casualties under fire, among other obstacle courses. On day two, the competitors continued their arduous grind, enduring through the remaining five courses, including nighttime Land Navigation, the M4 Rifle Range, and the culminating event, the Crucible.
Day two concluded with all 48 teams convening at the Mess Hall during the Sandhurst International Military Skills Awards Ceremony, as the competition results were announced.
Texas A&M University eked a spot amongst the top teams, placing fifth, with the Royal Military College of Canada (Kingston) edging them at 4th place. In third place stood the Royal Military College Saint-Jean. The University of Minnesota displayed exceptional skills and prowess throughout the event, claiming second place under team USMA Black, who earned the coveted Reginald E. Johnson Memorial Saber at first place.
USMA Black celebrated with their coach, Maj. Monday Price, as their victory was announced, marking their third consecutive victory since their loss in 2022.
"The standards were met," said team leader and Class of 2025 Cadet Zachary Gallman. "That was the expectation for our team and we met that standard by winning."
In addition to the overall team standings, several individuals and teams were recognized through a series of individual and special awards that celebrated leadership, marksmanship, physical endurance, and unit excellence.
Midshipman Pedro Suarez-Solar from the United States Naval Academy was honored with the Tom Surdyke Leadership Award, which is presented annually to a squad leader who demonstrates highly effective leadership, teamwork, and resilience under pressure.
USMA Black captured the Most Lethal Squad Marksmanship Award and the Physical Endurance Award. The USCC Sandhurst Performance Award, presented to the highest-performing company team within the U.S. Corps of Cadets, was awarded to Company A-3 “Anacondas.” Their performance reflected excellence across all evaluated disciplines, setting them apart within the West Point community.
International and ROTC units were also recognized for their achievements. The Sandhurst International Cup, awarded to the highest-scoring international team, went to Canada (St. Jean). Meanwhile, the Sandhurst ROTC Cup—given to the top-performing Army ROTC team—was claimed by the University of Minnesota, acknowledging their tactical skill and endurance throughout the multi-day event.
These individual and team awards underscore the competition’s role in fostering excellence, resilience, and global camaraderie among future military leaders.
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