GMC Raiders secure top honors at Bulldog Invitational Raider Challenge

Published 9:31 am Monday, October 21, 2024

Georgia Military College (GMC) Prep School’s Raider Teams delivered an outstanding performance at the Bulldog Invitational Raider Challenge on Saturday, Oct. 12, securing top spots and continuing their tradition of excellence.

They will head off next Thursday to compete in the National Championships at Fort Knox, Kentucky.

The Bulldog Invitational, which serves as the Georgia Area 12 state qualifier, featured 35 JROTC Raider teams from across the state competing in five rigorous events: a 2.6-mile run, rope bridge construction, cross-country rescue, gauntlet obstacle course, and the Raider Fitness Challenge.

Under coach Maj. Todd Van Dine, GMC Prep’s Mixed Team A took home 1st place overall, while Mixed Team B earned an impressive 3rd place in a highly competitive field. These results secured their advancement to the National JROTC Raider Championship, where they will compete against top teams from across the country.

“We are incredibly proud of our Raider Teams and their remarkable performance at this year’s Bulldog Invitational,” said GMC President Lt. Gen. William B. Caldwell, IV (Ret.). “Their dedication, resilience, and teamwork exemplify the best of what our JROTC program stands for. We look forward to seeing them represent Georgia Military College on the national stage once again.”

“The Bulldog Invitational is more than just a competition,” said Major Van Dine, “Our team has a legacy of excellence, with 12 state championships and two national titles, and continues to compete successfully against much larger schools. It’s a remarkable achievement given our size.” GMC Raiders also achieved a remarkable feat in 2023, when they secured 1st place in the Mixed Team Masters Division at Nationals. This victory earned all 12 Cadets four-year full ROTC scholarships to any institution of their choice in the USA.

The Raider Challenge continues to grow in popularity, attracting students who are not only preparing for future military service but also gaining critical life skills such as leadership, teamwork, and adaptability. GMC’s Raider program has a proven track record of success, and these cadets are no exception.