13th April 2000
British Guard Finals Report
Saturday 8th April saw the first British Colour Guard Championships of the new Millennium and the end of a busy competition season for the Southern Knights.
The Rugrats 'Out of Africa 2000' theme had always gone down well with the audience and today was no exception. From the opening sequence through the Lions Sleeps Tonight and on to the 'mayhem' of George of the Jungle the 18 kids thoroughly enjoyed every minute and with the surprise ending, including a Gorilla!!, the crowd were on their feet with applause. Coming into the Cadet Class Finals the Rugrats were seeded 5th and they held onto this spot jointly with one other guard and although slightly disappointed with this position we could not have asked the members to perform any better.
In the Junior Class, the Cadets had struggled to keep up with the top guards all season but had continued to improve their Pulp Fiction show at every contest. The fast moving start, contrasting with the dance sequence of Jack Rabbit Slims twist, have given the 7 members plenty of experience and help grow their confidence throughout the season. In the Junior Class Finals they held onto their seeded 7th place and should be proud of their achievements this season.
Undefeated in UK A Class competition this season and seeded 1st, the 7 members of the Senior Guard were full of hope for the Finals. In the two weeks since Sheffield a lot of work had been put in, including integrating eight 7ft white pillars into the performance and the effort seemed to have paid off. Once again the girls performed an excellent show and we could not have asked them to give any more. Unfortunately this was not to be our day and we dropped to 2nd place, still an excellent achievement and congratulations to the girls.
And so another season has come to a close. Despite the disappointments on Finals day, the 2000 season will still be remembered as a huge success (as success is not only measured by awards) with lessons learnt and a stronger organisation as a result. Massive thanks to all the members, staff, parents and supporters for making the season so memorable and enjoyable. Roll on 2001!!