The Pride of Cincinnati Winter Guard, a name synonymous with innovation and excellence in the world of performing arts, is concluding its competitive journey. With an unprecedented 23 medal-winning programs at the WGI World Championships and a history that stretches back over four decades, Pride leaves behind an indelible mark on the world of color guard.

Pride of Cincinnati’s story began not on the winter guard floor, but on the field. Originally founded in 1981 as a drum and bugle corps, the group overcame enormous obstacles in its very first year to become what the public knows today. Although the drum corps ended after four seasons, the organization's commitment to youth development and artistic performance lived on. In 1984, Pride of Cincinnati was reborn as an independent winter guard—and what followed was nothing short of historic.

Over the winter guard’s 42-year run, Pride brought 35 exceptional programs to the WGI floor, performed in World Class Finals 33 times, earned 23 medals, and was named Independent World Class Champion a record-setting nine times. Every one of Pride’s far-ranging programs has told a story. The winter guard evolved from the fun-loving preppies of the mid-’80s to beautiful and tender programs like Both Sides Now, Bridge Over Troubled Water, and To The Fullest, while also exploring deeply abstract modernist concepts in shows like What’s Left and Wanderlust. Throughout, the consistent throughline was always the excellence and passion of every performer who stepped onto the floor to hear “Pride of Cincinnati!” announced for them.

While this is the conclusion of a competitive era, it is not the end of our story. Pride of Cincinnati’s legacy will continue through the hundreds of alumni who have passed through the program over the decades. Many are now instructors, designers, and directors, sharing the same positive, inclusive approach that has been foundational to Pride’s philosophy. Whether in the color guard activity or beyond, the values instilled by Pride will continue to have a positive impact on students for years to come. 

As we move into this next chapter, Pride of Cincinnati will explore meaningful ways to extend its impact—whether through the support of local and national color guard programs, scholarships, or new forms of creative and educational outreach. In keeping with our legacy, any future endeavors will aim to uplift young performers and foster community through the arts. Whatever form they take, these next steps will be guided by the same spirit of passion, innovation, and care that defined every moment on the floor.

To all who have ever worn the uniform, spun and danced with us, donated your time, supported us financially, or cheered us on from the stands: thank you. You are Pride. This is not an ending. This is the continuation of something greater—a legacy of excellence, love, and the unshakable belief that the arts can change lives.