Band Marches in Heat for Fundraiser

ALLEN, Texas - More than 700 members of the Allen High School Escadrille band braved the hot North Texas weather on Saturday for its annual march-a-thon fundraiser. The money raised will help the group with travel expenses for their spring trip to San Diego.

The musicians, drill team and color guard members dressed comfortably in attire including shorts and tank tops. They also had plenty of water on hand to stay hydrated. Some who came out to watch, in a welcomed gesture, even sprayed water on the students as they marched through Allen neighborhood streets.

Associate Band Director Matt Boening says safety is the priority throughout the 10-mile march-a-thon. He points out the students' outdoor practices started three weeks ago and as a result they're better conditioned for the effort.

"They keep water at their side at all times and we enforce hydration constantly. Some of them aren't always good at monitoring their own bodies so we have to train and teach them," said Boening.

Escadrille members stopped at times for 45-minute rest breaks along the route. During the breaks students sat under shade trees, drank water and ate snacks.

The group also had a nurse traveling with them and an air-conditioned RV just in case anyone felt overcome by the heat.