#vmi26plus3

Nov. 10, 2025—Rat Olympics for the Class of 2026 plus 3 kicked off Founders Day activities on Friday in the Corps Physical Training Facility. The competition is the culmination of the 10-week physical education program, Rat Challenge. Winning companies will be announced on Wednesday evening during the Rat Olympics dinner.—VMI Photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin and Kelly Nye.

Aug. 25, 2025—Matriculation Week culminated Sunday with Rat Crucible, which included training on the North Post obstacles and swimming in the Maury River to Jordan’s Point. The event concluded with a march up Letcher Avenue and the rats’ first Old Yell.—VMI Photos by Kelly Nye and H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

Aug. 20, 2025—Rats climb House Mountain, a 5.5 mile hike, by company today and yesterday as Matriculation Week continues. Cadre offer the rats advice while taking in the view through the fog from Big House Mountain, an elevation of 3,600 feet.—VMI Photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

Aug. 16, 2025—This afternoon, 469 matriculants were called down by company during the Welcome Ceremony in Cameron Hall. After the ceremony, cadre marched the rats into barracks for the beginning of their training. This year's Rat Mass consists of 75 females and 143 recruited NCAA athletes. They come from 33 states and six foreign countries, with 62% from Virginia and 38% from out of state.—VMI Photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

Aug. 16, 2025—Matriculants are arriving on post. VMI cadets, faculty, and staff are assisting them as they register for classes, receive parts of their uniform, move into barracks, and sign the Matriculation Book.—VMI Photos by Kelly Nye.