The Ranger Challenge

The Capital University Ranger Challenge Team earned a respectable 16th place out of 30 teams from Ohio and Kentucky in the 7th Brigade Ranger Challenge competition held last weekend at Fort Knox, Ky. They showed tremendous improvement by beating 14 teams this year, many of which represented much larger schools such as the universities of Kentucky, Dayton, Toledo, Wright State University and John Carroll to name just a few.

"This is the best we've ever placed," said Lt. Col. Mark Shepard, professor of Military Science and Leadership. Last year, Capital's team finished last.

Unlike collegiate sports, the Ranger Challenge competition does not consider the size of the school.  "It's like trying to play football against Ohio State," said Capt. Andre Takacs, coach and adviser to the Ranger Challenge Team. "When you're competing against schools like that, you can't expect Capital to come in first, but when they finish as strong as they did, you have to be very proud of them. They beat every small school and many of the medium and large-sized schools. It's kind of like winning the championship and then some."

The team performed especially strong on tactical patrolling, the Army physical fitness test, weapons disassembly and assembly, and the 10 km road march.

With only one senior on the team, most of the Ranger Challenge cadets will be here next year.  And that means they can learn from this experience and train even better for next year. "Next year, we're going to place 10th or better," said Cadet Matt Vinton.