GMC Prep School Raiders Secure Victory at Bulldog Invitational Raider Challenge, Set Sights on Nationals

The GMC Raiders have once again proven their dominance in Army athletics, delivering a standout performance at the 2024 Bulldog Invitational Raider Challenge on October 12th. Hosted at Georgia Military College (GMC) Prep School, the event served as the Georgia Area 12 state qualifier, bringing together 35 JROTC Raider teams from across the state to compete in five physically demanding events: the 2.6-mile run, rope bridge construction, cross-country rescue, gauntlet obstacle course, and the Raider Fitness Challenge.

GMC Raiders Shine at Bulldog Invitational

The GMC Raiders showcased exceptional skill and teamwork as GMC Prep's Mixed Team A secured 1st place, while Mixed Team B earned an impressive 3rd place in a highly competitive field. Both teams have now qualified to compete at the National JROTC Raider Championship, continuing the school's legacy of excellence in Junior College sports.

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 in Fort Knox, Kentucky, where they will compete against top teams from across the country.

Leadership and Commitment to Army Athletics

"We are incredibly proud of our GMC Raiders and their remarkable performance at this year's Bulldog Invitational," said GMC President Lieutenant General William B. Caldwell, IV (Ret.). "Their dedication, resilience, and teamwork reflect the best of what our Army athletics program stands for. We are excited to see them represent Georgia Military College on the national stage once again."

2023 National Title and Scholarship Success

This victory comes on the heels of a monumental achievement in 2023, when GMC Raiders Mixed Team won First Place in the Masters Division at Nationals, a title that earned each team member a full-ride scholarship to the institution of their choice. This achievement underscores the program's role in preparing cadets for future success, both academically and in military service.

Exceptional Leadership at GMC Raider Challenge

The Bulldog Invitational, run under the leadership of LTC Mike Jones, GMC's Professor of Military Science, exemplifies the strength of GMC's Army athletics program. 2LTs and State Service cadets from the Georgia Officer Training Site (GOTS) played a vital role in organizing and supporting the event, ensuring a seamless and professionally run competition.

Raider Challenge: Building Leadership for the Future

The Raider Challenge has grown in popularity, with students from all over Georgia participating and preparing for military service, college, and beyond. Cadets gain invaluable leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills-critical competencies for both their future academic endeavors and military careers.

"The Bulldog Invitational is more than just a competition," said Coach 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: Competing Against Larger Schools and Succeeding

GMC Raiders have established themselves as leaders in Junior College sports, particularly in the realm of Army athletics, where they regularly compete against larger schools and still come out on top. "Despite having fewer students than many of our competitors, our Raiders consistently demonstrate their resilience and determination," said Caldwell.

(Watch the Recap Video Here)

As the GMC Raiders set their sights on Nationals, they carry with them the strength and spirit of a program known for excellence. Whether they're competing for state titles or earning scholarships to further their education, GMC cadets continue to make their mark in both Junior College sports and Army athletics.

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