Marianas High School – Hustle N’ Tussle 6th Annual Extreme Raider Competition

Writer – C/2LT Batinggal, Daniella

Photographer – C/CPT Mendoza, Chiaralei

The JROTC cadets from the Dolphin Battalion participated in the 6th Annual Extreme Raider Competition (ERC), Hustle N’ Tussle, held at Marianas High School on January 11, 2025. Raiders provide cadets with the experience of intense training for a challenging and exciting competition. It places a strong emphasis on cadet growth in leadership, teamwork, and camaraderie. ERC is a highly physical, all-day, multi-event competition designed to challenge cadets through a series of physically demanding events to test strength, endurance, and mental toughness.

During this competition, cadets compete in the following team events: Assault Run, Cross Country Rescue (CCR), Team Relay (Tire Flipping, Fireman Carry or Piggyback, and Tire Carry), and Rope Bridge. By participating in these events, cadets develop physical fitness, leadership skills, teamwork, discipline, and problem-solving skills. What makes Raiders special is its unique blend of physical challenges, leadership development, and team dynamics that push students to their limits both physically and mentally. The combination of physical endurance, mental agility, and leadership is what sets Raiders apart from typical sports or academic activities.

I’ve been in Raiders for two years. Receiving the “Best Female” medal made me feel proud and accomplished. To achieve this recognition, I worked on my core and arms using a dumbbell. When I want to give up or when I feel too lazy to do these exercises, I work on my mentality so I can do my best and not give up. During this competition, I’ve learned that all my training will pay off.

– C/SFC Wanying, Shen (Best Female)

Raiders promote personal growth, development, and success. If you plan on joining, discipline is required. You are challenged both physically and mentally.

– C/1LT Reyes, Devon (Best Male)

I believe that this competition pushed us to be prepared for the overall events, especially the beach run because it was the most challenging part. Communication contributes to developing our teamwork skills because without communicating with our team leaders, our team will strand, which will affect our team’s grade. You also developed leadership skills because I had the opportunity to teach new raider cadets (explorers) on the rope bridge. I also increased the repetition of my pull-ups, which I am proud of.

– C/1LT Quidato, John Peter (Raider Cadet).

This competition sets a goal for the cadets to achieve physically or mentally, which challenges them to the best of their ability to improve. Teamwork was a big aspect in this competition because it promoted camaraderie amongst our cadets. I was surprised about how well cadets are working together to accomplish a goal.

– C/CPT Pedrano, Princess (Raider Captain)

Thank you to Marianas High School for their support, including our loving principal, Mrs. Melanie S. Rdiall. We would like to extend our gratitude to our raider cadets, parents, the dolphin battalion staff, and our instructor for their participation and support. This event wouldn’t have been possible without their involvement. The Hustle N’ Tussle Extreme Raider Competition not only challenged the cadets physically but also built lasting bonds and valuable life skills that will stay with them throughout their journey.