April 21, 2004

Contact: Lt. Col. Brian De Toy, military science, (785) 864-1105.

KU ROTC program to host 10th annual Ranger Buddy Competition April 24

LAWRENCE -- The University of Kansas Army Reserve Officer Training Corps program will host the 10th annual Ranger Buddy Competition April 24.

The competition pits teams of college students from across the nation against each other in military tactics and skills as well as challenges their mental and physical stamina. Cadets will participate in a six-mile team run, weapons assembly and disassembly, aid and litter carry, a rock wall climb, a grenade obstacle course and a 3.5-mile combat gear forced march.

Approximately 130 two-man teams from 11 states and 28 universities and colleges will compete in the event.

The competition will begin at 6 a.m. with an opening ceremony and team run at the paved trail just south of Southwind Theaters, 3433 Iowa St. From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. the competition will be at KU's Adams Campus for an obstacle course and rock wall climb. The Adams Campus is a 220-acre university site located 12 miles southwest of Lawrence.

The final event will be a forced combat gear march at 3 p.m. at the Lied Center.