West Point Nordic Ski Club partners with the Vermont National Guard & US Army’s Biathlon Team

The Nordic Cross Country Ski Team recently partnered with the Vermont National Guard and the US Army Biathlon Team. Nine cadets, led by CDT Sierra Bennett-Manke '25 and MAJ John Georg, DFL German instructor, visited Camp Ethan Allen in Vermont earlier this month. While there, several cadets successfully skied cross country for the first time and every cadet shot a biathlon rifle for the first time. In addition to several hours spent perfecting the art of moving across snow with skis attached to their feet, cadets participated in a relay with the biathlon rifles, practiced double poling in the gym, and received information about workouts to prepare them for upcoming competitions. Many cadets will be racing at Woodford, VT and Lake Placid, NY later in January. Not only did the cadets enjoy the process of learning a new skill, but they also learned the importance of this skill in the Army. Arctic warfare fighting is not a widespread discipline, but it will play an increasing role in future combat. Thanks to donors supporting the Margin of Excellence, cadets have the opportunity to compete in various clubs, such as this, at USMA. Read more.