Jacob Reik has thrown his allegiance to the McDaniel College wrestling team, which is gaining a versatile and self-motivated athlete.
"I've never seen a more dedicated athlete than Jacob," Stafford High School coach DeVal Williams said. "He struggled some early in his career, but he worked hard to achieve his goals."
Reik also stood out on the amateur circuit as well. Competing independently, the 160-pounder placed fifth in the elite division of the recent Mid-Atlantic Eastern Championships Salisbury, Md.
Previously, Reik placed first at the MAWA district tournament at Fauquier High School, was runner-up at the MAWA regional tournament (qualifying him for nationals), and captured second place in the Brute Empire Nationals in Rochester, N.Y.
CHALLENGING THE RAPIDS
Despite heavy rains, organizers and participants are hoping the river will be back to normal in time for the 28th Annual Rappahannock Whitewater Canoe Race.
The event is scheduled June 7-8 with many of the over 100 races starting at Motts Reservoir and concluding at Old Mill Park. Divisions run from first-time paddler to advanced canoe/kayak racer. Racing begins 10 a.m. each day.
Also on tap are the American Canoe Association Middle State Whitewater Championships, the Scout Challenge and Paddle for a Cause (which benefits the Fredericksburg SPCA, Mary Washington Hospice and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes) and a five-mile downriver race.
While there are no team or individual spring championships, some college canoeists may use the event to prepare for the upcoming NCAA championship planned for this fall at the same location.
Registration will be held at Old Mill Park each day from 8-10 a.m. For further information, call 540/371-5085 or check GRWCR.org.
Kurt Nicoll: 540/374-5441
Email: knicoll@freelancestar.com