Cartersville High School rifle team qualifies for the state tournament

March 7, 2025

The Cartersville High School Rifle Team will compete in the state tournament for the first time in program history.

Although the Canes lost to Upson Lee in the second round of the playoffs on Feb. 27, their score qualified them for a consolation bracket alongside two other teams. The three-way tie was settled with a sudden death shootout on March 6.  

With about a day’s notice, said JROTC Sr. Army Instructor and coach Edwin “Chief” Bonayon, the team traveled to Winder-Barrow High School to compete with Kendrick and Northside Columbus high schools for two relays.

Chance Van Pelt, Bryson Newport, and Luis Rangel shot in Relay 1, with Lucy Evans and Maggie Sheffield shooting in Relay 2. The Canes won with 1130 points, securing the last spot in the State bracket. 

Evans continued her dominant season by leading all shooters with 292. Sheffield followed at 281, with Rangel close behind at 280. Newport finished with a 277, and Van Pelt with a 272. 

The Canes travel to Waycross to compete on Saturday, March 15.