Fred C. Beyer High School of Modesto won the Grand Champion Award at the Fresno State Marching Band’s first Sierra Cup Classic on Saturday, Nov. 7, in Bulldog Stadium.
Gary P. Gilroy, director of the Fresno State band, said 16 of the best bands from California and Nevada were judged in nine categories with awards for the top band in each class. Classes are determined by band size.
For winning the Grand Champion Award, Beyer High received a perpetual trophy, with its name inscribed as the first champion. Gilroy said the trophy will be returned each year to be re-awarded to the new winner.
Hanford West swept all nine awards in Class A60 and Clovis High won eight of the nine in Class AA. Diamond Bar High won the Esprit de Corps Award, which is awarded to the group that displays the highest level of good competitive spirit and good sportsmanship during the competition that day, Gilroy said.
” The Esprit de Corps Award is given to the band whose members conduct themselves in the most professional manner” he explained. “In many ways, this award should mean more to a band than any other trophy presented. It is a true symbol of class and good human character.”
About 2,500 high school students along with 1,500 spectators attended the event held from 5 to 10 p.m. It was first national caliber band competition hosted by Frenso State.
Attached is the list of winners by section. For more information, call (209) 278-5086.
