On Saturday, April 10, the West Johnston Winter Guard received the Gold Medal and claimed the title of World Champions at the Winter Guard International (WGI) World Competition in Dayton, Ohio. WGI Sport of the Arts is the world's premier organization producing indoor color guard and percussion ensemble competitions. The West Johnston show entitled “Crossing Over” was a thrill ride of daredevil equipment work, featuring a long metal beam suspended 10 feet off the ground which spanned from corner to corner in what was the most vertical show of the weekend. A daring young lady slowly crossed the beam as the show progressed, undeterred by the high rifle and saber tosses soaring above her head from below. Safely reaching the other end, she climbed down as the group perfectly executed a unison toss on deep red flags, raising her arms in victory after tempting fate and triumphing over it. The group finished with a final round score of 97.05 after winning two previous elimination rounds. This Gold Medal performance tops off an outstanding year in which the WJHS Winter Guard brought home championship titles from all events they entered locally and regionally. In addition to its record setting winning performance, two senior members of the guard were awarded academic scholarships for their accomplishments. Lilly Hurr received the Atlantic Indoor Association scholarship and Amanda Lazarro was awarded a WGI academic scholarship. David Duffy, director, was inducted into the AIA (Athletic Indoor Association) Hall of Fame at the conclusion of the season.

“The extra time these students and directors have dedicated to the Color Guard speaks volumes as to their talent and determination to do their very best,” said Dr. Ed Croom, superintendent. The Board of Education plans to meet with the color guard on May 11 to offer their congratulations in person.

After their big win, the guard performed an encore performance at the WJHS Gymnasium. On display were trophies and awards from this year as well as the World Championship Banner.