Silver Bullets take top honors after months of preparation
By Becky Hynes
The Trempealeau County 4-H Horse Project Drill Team celebrated a major milestone on June 27, earning
first place in their very first drill team competition held in Evansville, Wisconsin.
Reestablished in 2023, the drill team program has grown steadily and now features two groups: a
Performance Team and a Competition Team. The Competition Team, known as the Silver Bullets, is made
up of six riders between the ages of 12 and 18, mounted on horses ranging in age from 6 to 22.
The team has spent months preparing for this event, beginning practices in February by learning their
routine on foot before transitioning to horseback in April. Members meet weekly, often practicing up to
two hours per session to refine timing, precision, and teamwork.
Coach Heather Young & Angie Hart have led the drill team since its revival, praised the riders’ dedication
and camaraderie.
“They are focused and dedicated and continue to improve and support each other,” Young said.
Young traveled with the team and their families to Evansville on Friday, where riders had the opportunity
to practice in the competition arena ahead of their performance. The Silver Bullets took the arena at 1
p.m. on Saturday, competing in the Novice Division.
Despite some pre-performance nerves, team members expressed excitement about showcasing their
routine.
“They were nervous but excited to get out and show their pattern,” Young said.
Their hard work paid off, as the Silver Bullets finished the day in first place, marking an impressive debut
for the newly formed competition team.
Following the win, Young reflected on the team’s journey and the bond formed along the way.
“I couldn’t be prouder of these girls,” she said. “They have truly grown, and through the ups and downs,
laughs and tears, their hard work has paid off. These six have a very special bond.”
Both the Competition Team and the Performance Team will showcase their talents at the upcoming
Trempealeau County Fair, with daily performances. Visit their Facebook page for the full schedule.
Two highlights include the Silver Bullets performing on Thursday, July 16, at 11:00 a.m. in the main horse
arena, followed by the Performance Team at 7:00 p.m. during the rodeo.
After each performance, stop by the horse arena to meet the riders and their horses, and pick up a
souvenir drill team card.
The team’s successful debut signals a strong future for the Trempealeau County 4-H drill program, as it
continues to grow and provides young riders with opportunities to develop discipline, teamwork, and
confidence in the arena.