Dakota Overland just notched a win of a very different sort. And its one not likely to be equalled by many peers anytime soon. While the junior Benelli 3-Gun shooter certainly finds herself atop the podium at matches increasingly more frequent, this win trends more toward the game of life. Overland accepted an offer to join the U.S. Military Academy, reporting to West Point this June. The high honor will put here competitive shooting career on hold, at least for now.
Dakota Overland Headed to West Point
“Dakota has been a prolific winner during her time shooting competitively,” said Benelli USA VP of Marketing Timothy Joseph. “Her steadfast dedication and passion for shooting showed at every event and her devotion and enthusiasm made it tough on her competitors. Benelli is proud of the partnership we’ve had with Dakota as she’s showcased the high performance of Benelli shotguns in competition. She is a very special individual who brings a bright light to shooting sports. We thank her for her years as one of our successful shooting team members and wish her the best of luck with her new venture in life.”
Now 18, Overland will graduate high school and follow familiar footsteps, with family members that have served the U.S. military. She now embarks on a career of service to protect America’s freedom.
“I have enjoyed a great life of being able to live with all the freedoms secured by military current and past,” said Overland. “It makes sense for me to give back and the opportunity to attend West Point will help me obtain a secure future in either the military or in the private world. I am looking forward to the next few years.”
Overland owns an enviable competition shooting resume already. The former junior shooter picked up a major 3-Gun win earlier this season, both Junior division and Lady Overall. Now she leaves Team Benelli for Team USA.
“I always appreciated my team members,” said Overland. “They have been supportive throughout my time on the team and have become like family members. I wish them continued success and hope to see them soon down the road.”
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