EASLEY — The Easley High School Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corp unit competed recently in the Navy National Orienteering Championship held in the Seattle, Wash., and placed ninth overall.

Orienteering involves land navigation, cross country running and decision making. Easley qualified to compete nationally by winning the region competition in January.

Twenty-nine NJROTC units out of more than 600 units throughout the United States qualified to compete at the national level by placing first, second or third in their perspective NJROTC area.

Easley’s Junior Varsity team took fifth place overall with Cadet Kelsie Hart leading the team placing first individually on the orange course. The competition was held March 5 and March 6.

“I’m proud of the team,” said Chief Mark Stauder. “Going into a three-hour different time zone, running a different type of terrain and being out of their element, I think they did extremely well. Most of these cadets will never have the opportunity to compete on a national level again in their lifetime in any type of competition, so this event was a great experience.”

The Cadets included Brandon Marsh, Ryan Jeanes, Cody Marshall, Joey Sigler, Brenda Lopez-Perez, Kelsie Hart, Griff Von Schmittou, William Frazier, Chase Wengerd, and Matthew West.

Cadets enjoying a break from the tough competition.
https://www.theeasleyprogress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_ehsrotcnation01.jpgCadets enjoying a break from the tough competition. Courtesy photos

Cadet Kelsie Hart finishes her course ahead of the other runners. Hart placed first individually on the orange course.
https://www.theeasleyprogress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/web1_ehsrotcnation02.jpgCadet Kelsie Hart finishes her course ahead of the other runners. Hart placed first individually on the orange course. Courtesy photos

Staff Report