The Bellevue West Winter Guards made their annual trip to Dayton, Ohio to perform in their last competition of the year at the Winter Guard International Championships in the first week of April.

Each performance was judged and rated on a 100 point scale based on equipment, movement, design analysis, and general effect.

The JV winter guard performed their show “El Tengo Rosa” on Wednesday, April 3, landing a total score of 73.720 points. Those performing the show were able to show off their tango abilities while spinning flags.

“It’s really exhilarating, but at the same time, there’s a lot of downtime in a day when you’re competing,” freshman Robyn Boyland said. “When you get out there, it’s like a rush of energy.”

The varsity open winter guard performed their show “Oh How Beautiful, Oh How Sad” on Thursday, April 4. The guard scored 76.100 points. Their show told the story of life, and how although there are many lows, one should focus on the highs.

“Since it was my final performance, it was very emotional,” senior Roxy Muela said, reflecting back on the show. “Lots of tears before and after realizing that it was the last time I will ever be performing in front of a big audience like that. It was sad, it kind of reflected on the show, though. Happy, sad, bittersweet.”