On Saturday, June 7, the Amsterdam High School Marine Corps JROTC team competed in the 10K Apratan Super Race in Bethel, New York. The race took place under extreme weather conditions, including thunder, lightning and a flooded course, challenging participants both physically and mentally.
Despite the elements, the cadets demonstrated resilience, teamwork and discipline by starting and finishing the race as a unit. Their participation was the culmination of nine months of preparation, which included running hundreds of miles and completing daily High Intensity Tactical Training to build the strength and endurance necessary for the event.
The team was led by First Sergeant James Bautista and Gunnery Sergeant Dana Allison. Gunnery Sergeant Allison placed third overall in her age group, while Cadet Operations Officer Kimberly Maldonado placed 12 in hers.
The full list of participants included:
First Sergeant James Bautista
Gunnery Sergeant Dana Allison
Ryan Adams, Cadet Commanding Officer
Kimberly Maldonado, Cadet Operations Officer
Ian McClary
Antonio Billington
Jason Billington (Parent Participant)
Rjay Rivera
Miguel Medina
The race served not only as a physical test but also as a display of the leadership, grit and unity that the MCJROTC program aims to instill in cadets. The team’s performance highlighted the values of discipline and determination, key traits in both the program and the greater school community.