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At the Marching New Zealand Championships held on the 8th and 9th of March in Hamilton, Southland was proudly represented by five teams. This event was a gathering of talent and precision, demonstrating the dedication of all participants.
Making a notable entrance this season, the Southern Stars Seniors, a team freshly formed, stepped into the national spotlight for the first time at the Championships. Their debut was a moment of pride and promise for the future.
The Blue Jay U13 team, with youthful energy and determination, gave their all in the competition. Their efforts were rewarded with a 5th place in the Technical and a 6th place in the Display categories within the plate grade, showcasing their budding talent and hard work.
Not to be outdone, the Blue Jay U18 team also made a strong impression. They secured a commendable 3rd place in Technical and a 4th place in Display in the Plate grade, demonstrating their skill and commitment to the sport.
The Hokonui U18 team continued to build on their legacy by becoming the first Southland team to consecutively win the U18 NZ Champion Team title. They excelled by winning the Technical phase, securing 2nd in the Display phase, and being crowned the overall New Zealand Champion Team for the second successive year.
Adding to the accolades, the Hokonui U13 Marching team claimed the prestigious titles of NZ Champion U13 Team and South Island Champion U13 Team. Their exceptional performance earned them back-to-back NZ Champion Display placings, alongside winning the NZ Champion Technical Team title, culminating in them being named the overall NEW ZEALAND CHAMPION TEAM.
These achievements highlight the strength and spirit of the Southland teams, marking a significant chapter in their marching journey.