Hosted by the spirited Bonanza High School, the Bonanza Drill Competition is a prestigious event that draws in multiple schools, including the dedicated cadets from Shadow Ridge High School.
This competition is not only physically challenging but also tests the dedication of the ROTC students as they engage in a series of tough events. Participants showcase their skills in armed drill, unarmed drill, color guard, and the thrilling showdown of both armed and unarmed drill categories.
Roman Gardea, senior, states, “The event is tons of fun every year, it’s a great opportunity to make new friends and connections.”
During the armed, unarmed, and color guard portions, teams must execute a meticulously choreographed sequence that their commanders have drilled into their memories. The intensity heightens in the drill downs, an individual competition where a drill sergeant yells commands, and the ultimate objective is to remain the last competitor standing. A single misstep leads to immediate elimination, adding a layer of pressure that pushes each cadet to their limits.
Adding to the physical challenge, participants face a grueling two-mile cross-country run and a fierce tug-of-war battle. Unfortunately, due to transportation delays, the Shadow Ridge team could not partake in the running event. The day was a long one for the Mustangs, with the competition unfolding from the early hours of 7:30 AM until the clock struck 3 PM in the afternoon.
Ultimately, Shadow Ridge secured its only accolade in the tug-of-war, clinching an impressive second place. Drill competitions like this one hold significant value for JROTC cadets; they earn placement ribbons to display proudly on their uniforms and gain valuable bragging rights among their peers.
Ethan Jordan, sophomore, expresses, “It was very fun, I had an amazing time.”
Yet, the pursuit of accolades is not the primary motivation. These competitions serve as a platform for cadets to express their pride and patriotism for their units while assessing their progress in their JROTC journey, acting as a sort of placement test. As the inaugural competition of the year, Bonanza’s drill event is especially crucial for newcomers, marking their first venture into the vibrant world of drill.
The camaraderie among the participants is remarkable, fostering friendships that extend beyond the competition. Cadets share stories, offer encouragement, and collectively celebrate their achievements, reinforcing their sense of belonging. This shared experience cultivates teamwork, discipline, and resilience, qualities that will benefit them throughout their JROTC careers and in life. The competition not only tests their skills but also strengthens the bonds between units, making it a memorable event for all involved.
Roman Gardea continues, “We did a great job, and we’ll get ‘em next time.”
