New Bedford High School JROTC Cadets Are Raider Challenge Champions

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford High School's JROTC is celebrating after a weekend of competitive skills.

Each year, Army JROTC programs across the U.S. compete in the Fort Devens, Massachusetts Raider Challenge competition.

On May 11, New Bedford High JROTC Cadets swept the competition and took home the prestigious Massachusetts Army League (COMAL) Governor's Cup. 

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This win marks their seventh year as champions.

During the event, the team's physical and mental strength is tested as the cadets compete in six events. 

New Bedford JROTC Army Instructor Justin Caverio said that only the cadets with the highest commitment level and drive make up the final teams after tryouts and rigorous practices. 

Teams must construct a one-rope bridge, complete a physically demanding fitness challenge, pass an Army land navigation course, run a 3K team race, treat and evaluate a casualty, carry that casualty through a series of obstacles, and then complete a grueling obstacle course through the woods.

"At the end of this competition, Raider teams are physically, mentally, and emotionally drained," Caverio said. "I am happy to say that both our male and female teams, once again, won their respective divisions. The male team has won consistently since 2016."

This is the second year New Bedford's all-female division has taken home the Governor's Cup since the female league started two years ago. 

"All of our Raiders were ecstatic to be announced as the Governor's Cup winners once again, maintaining their title as Massachusetts State Raiders Champions. They are still excited and beaming with pride for their accomplishments," Caverio said. 

In addition to the Governor's Cup, New Bedford also brought home 11 other trophies from various events during the competition.