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FREE ISSUE MARCH/APRIL 2012

High Hopes on the Slopes

Page 12

JOE“HOODZILLA”

ALEXANDER’s PATH TO SUCCESSPage 18

ZACh & DAKOTA’S OLYMPIC DREAMS

DISTRIBUTED THROUGHOUT

ST. JOSEPH • ELKHART • LaPorte • Starke • Marshall COUNTIESand the surrounding areas

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We each have our own self image which is likely quite different from how the rest of the world sees us. This also applies to our vision of our children. Crushing the ball for Dad in the back yard is great, but it does not always transfer to the diamond. By no means should any parent expect backyard conndence to Compare with on-neld performance. It is a bar that will likely get knocked off the stands each time. Coaches of all experience levels are the most qualined to position and play the players. Coach has a ‘vision’ of how all the parts will work in tandem. As a parent, we have to respect that in all levels of play. This person stood up to take the responsibility of being coach when no one else did.This person stood up to take the responsibility of being coach when no one else did. Parent participation is wonderful. Get involved, get in the game. Ponder what it is to play. What do you want your children to take away with them when their playing days are relegated to “beer league” softball leagues? For myself, I hope for respect for themselves, conndence in their abilities, recognition of their limits, work ethic of practicing and the concept of working together with a team and the lifelong friendships it can bring.

Editor-in-chiefZach MarkZach Mark Vol. 1 Issue 3

Editor’s Note

At the onset of any summer sport season, parents have the high expectation that their child is key to the team’s success. This, to a degree, is true. The success of the team depends on each and every player. Problems arise between the perspectives of the parents, players and the coach.

About Us…

Hometown Contender celebrates the local, hard-working athlete. Behind every athlete is a story. And it’s a story of heart, dedication, and perseverance. While many sports outlets focus on main-stream high school and college sports, Hometown Contender turns to the community and the great opportunities available to local athletes. Young or old, their story will be told.

Are You A Contender?

Do you have what it takes to be a “Contender”? We want to hear from you! Contact us about what you, or your team, are doing to contend with the best in your sport. If you are in a sport that we haven’t covered, no worries, we want to cover as many sports as possible. If it’s worth your time and effort, then it’s worth ours as well.

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Staff:President: Eric Kandlestorfer (ekandlstorfer@hometowncontender.com)Editor-in-Chief: Zach Mark (zmark@hometowncontender.com)Graphic Designer: Chris Manley, Camlar Graphic Design (camlar@sbcglobal.net)Sales Team: (sales@hometowncontender.com)

ContributorS:Kelly B. Robbins Rob Smith Adam Olmstead

SpeCial thankS:LaToya SmithMichele Sanders Halligan Karl SmithEntire Family, Friends, and

Church Family of ElijahEric BurnsJeremy BrownJohn HouserJohn KandlstorferSheila Houser

Pat HouserJoanie CoffmanFred FreihoferPam CraftTom EdgertonChris ManleyBetsy WilliamsBNI John BentleyAll AdvertisersBob Porter

Marlene & Keith HaddenPatrick NowakJennifer Penrod BrewerValerie HainesTiffany DawsonWendy AlexanderJoe AlexanderTodd, Mike & Jake BrownBarb Levan

Readers’ comments – Thank you for your support!“Hometown Contender shares incredible stories of determination, strength, courage and dedication about the everyday heros in our community. By highlighting the achievements of local athletes that normally would go unnoticed, Hometown Contender is finally giving them the recognition they deserve. There are so many more stories out there. I can’t wait for the next issue.”

— Melanie Knapp - South Bend

“Hometown Contender recognizes the young talent in our area in a variety of sports.”

— Aaron Bolin - South Bend

“A really good sport’s magazine. Interesting articles, better than a newspaper!”

— Gabriel Lopez - Mishawaka

“Growing up in the Detroit area, we had nothing like the Hometown Contender. Glad to see a sports magazine recognizing all the athletic talent in Michiana.”

— Josh Lesperance - Elkhart

“Hometown Contender is a great magazine! They are showcasing athletes in sports that are not normally covered by the mainstream media. It’s really fun to read about different sports and the athletes who compete.”

— Tamra Thomas Payne - South Bend

Hometown Contender can be found in area Meijer stores and Martin’s Super Markets. The magazine is also found at area fitness centers, restaurants, and numerous businesses around town. If you would like issues sent to your business, email us at info@hometowncontender.com

Website: www.hometowncontender.com • General Sales Inquiries: sales@hometowncontender.comHometown Contender is a registered trademark of HAZE Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. The written and visual content of this magazine are protected by copyright. Excepting translations, you may not reproduce our articles online or in print without first obtaining written permission. Please contact the author to obtain his or her written consent. Once you receive permission from the author, contact us to let us know where and whenthe article will be reprinted. Hometown Contender articles cannot be reprinted without obtaining author permission and notifying the magazine.

© Copyright Hometown Contender 2012

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Have Kart, Will Travel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Glenn Basketball. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Motocross Mojo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

High Hopes on the Slopes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

The Way of the Hand and Foot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

HC Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

From Hood to Good. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Century Center Fights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Team Renegade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Seeking Excellence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

I.C.E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Kart Attack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Business Spotlight (Martin’s Super Markets) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Trail Tough . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

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E lijah James Shelton was a true Hometown Contender, fighting for his life from the moment he was born with a congenital heart ailment.

“Elijah only had about 1/4 of his heart that functioned as it should,” shared Grandma Michele Sanders. He was on the waiting list for a heart transplant when he passed away. He was pretty thin by then and very tired, but he never quit fighting.”

Elijah was a student at Lafayette School, and would attend for about an hour and a half each day. He loved to go for walks and play with his puppies. He also loved to wear hats and was a little Notre Dame fan.

“Elijah was always smiling,” Grandma Michele said. “Even though he struggled so hard at times, he was always smiling and he made others

smile as well.”

This little fighter got to spend three days with his family at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom last year. “He loved the Dumbo ride and the big mouse!” exclaimed Grandma Michele.

“Elijah knew that Jesus loved him,” Grandma Michele offered further. “He loved to clap and sing at church.”

A function to help raise money for Elijah’s head-stone is being held at Beef ‘O’Brady’s on Saturday March 31st starting at 7 pm. Donations are also being accepted by contacting 574.855.0405 or 574.855.0406 for more information.

We stand together with mom LaToya Smith, Grandmas Michele Sanders and Halligan, Grandfa-

ther Karl Smith, and the rest of the family to celebrate the life and spirit of little Elijah. His legacy is one of love and laughter, strength and courage. He was everyone’s angel on earth and is now running with the Angels with a smile on his face as usual.

Life’s blows cannot break a person whose spirit is warmed at the fire of enthusiasm.

– Norman Vincent Peale

This issue of Hometown Contender is

Dedictated to… ELIJAHElijah James Shelton, April 5, 2007 - January 7, 2012

He wore many hats in his short lifetime, and showed us all that he was truly a Hometown Contender.

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HAVE KART, WILL TRAVELBy Kelly B. Robbins

T here’s something about sitting in the stands on a Friday night, watching your dad race around a quarter mile oval, that gives you an itch to race.

At 5 years old, all you know is that your adrenalin starts pumping and you realize you want to race too. That’s where Tommy Burke’s story begins.

Tommy used to sit in the stands and cheer for dad, Tom Burke, as he raced mini stocks at the South Bend Motor Speedway and M40 Speedway in Mottville, MI.

The family went to a boat show at South Bend’s Century Center where they ran into Rick Hall of MRP Motorsports. He introduced them to kart racing. They bought a kart and the rest is history in the making.

“We are very grateful to Rick Hall, Brent Ebert and the Lobaugh family for all of the help and support they have given to Tommy’s kart racing.” Tom said.

Five year old Tommy began racing in the Kid Kart class at Michiana Raceway Park in North Liberty in 2008. He won his first race in the Yamaha Rookie One class in 2009 and finished 2nd in championship points that year at MRP. In 2010 he cruised his #7 kart to the Rotax Micro Max championship with an impressive 9 wins, setting a track record in the process.

I asked Tommy to describe what it’s like when he is in the kart, ready to race. A kid of few words, he simply answered “It’s awesome!”

By 2011, it was pretty obvious that Tommy was an exceptional kart racer. The decision was made to move him from club level racing to the regional and national level race series. At the club level, you are competing with

drivers you know on a familiar track. By scheduling him at the regional/national level, Tommy would be challenged by much stiffer competition, and have an opportunity to get some “seat time” on unfamiliar tracks, racing against unfamiliar drivers.

“More time on different tracks is crucial to driver development.,” Tom concluded.

“This move has made Tommy a much different driver...a more aggressive driver,” mom Margie Burke offered. “ I am just amazed at his ability to make decisions as he’s racing.

Tommy is a very clean driver, but at this level you have to stand your ground or they’ll just run you off the track.”

Beyond the advantages of advancing Tommy’s experience and competition level, there has been an additional benefit to the Burke family. “Family bonding is one of the best things that has happened in traveling with Tommy’s racing,” Tom

said. “We tent camp, or stay in the RV or even get a motel sometimes. The point is, we’re together all weekend.”

Dad is Tommy’s crew chief and mentor. “This move has been expensive,” shared Tom. “We have 5 different engines that we change out in our Birel Italian-made chassis based on what series Tommy is racing in on a particular weekend. Probably 90% of the top driver’s are racing karts made overseas.”

So 2011 brought Tommy into a new arena. His regional/national series races were in the Yamaha Rookie Sportsman class and involved traveling to many different states to race. He ran the WKA (World Kart Association) Manufacturers Cup Series finishing 7th nationally, with 5 top 5 finishes in 8 races and a pole award. He had a 2nd place and a 4th place finish in the Route 66 Race Series and a win and a pole award in the Midwest Sprint Series.

He also raced in the MRP Rotax Max Challenge Series, winning 3 times with 3 pole awards. Quite an impressive year for this Holy Family School third-grader.

2012 looks to be a continuation of Tommy’s success on the track. The Burke’s have joined the MKP ( Motorama Kart Parts) Motorsports team for 2012. Tommy will again be racing in the WKA Manufacturer’s Cup series, as well as the Route 66 Race Series and the Regional Great Lakes Sprint Series. The family is currently seeking sponsors for the 2012 season to help offset the expenses involved in kart racing at the regional/national level. A racing website is planned as well.

These little karts are powerful. They sit only one inch off the ground and zip around the track in excess of 50 mph. Safety is a consideration for these racing parents.

“As with any sport, there is an element of danger”, Tom said. “But WKA takes safety very seriously. People ask me all the time why there is no roll bar or seat belt in these karts. The karts are actually designed to eject the driver in the case of a rollover or a flip. The helmet and skid suit protects the driver from most serious injuries.”

Tommy shared his favorite racing memory: “Winning!”

Dad also has a favorite memory of Tommy’s racing career. “Tommy was in a final race in the Route 66 Series,” Tom began. “He had qualified 4th or 5th. Going into turn one there was a huge wreck and Tommy’s kart was slammed in the back, putting him almost on his nose and bending his rear axle. A bent axle causes a kart to bounce violently on the track as it’s running. This put him back to 8th place with a damaged chassis. He never missed a beat, but fought his way back and finished the race in third place!”

“I’m telling you, there is just no quit in this kid!” Dad expressed with obvious pride.

Nine year old Tommy Burke’s racing future is firmly established in kart racing...for now. But quarter midgets are being considered as a possibility in the near future. As he gets older, stock car racing at the local level is another option. However, Tommy himself left little to the imagination when he declared, “Racing is fun, it’s fast, and it’s exciting. I want to race Indy cars someday!”

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“I want to race Indy cars someday!”

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Glenn Basketball AssociationBy Kelly B. Robbins

Picture a typical GBA Saturday morning in the beauti-ful new basketball arena at John Glenn High in Walk-erton. You see little guys wearing black and white

jerseys streak past cheering parents and grandparents as they work the basketball down the court for a score. 125 boys having great fun as they compete with each other and learn the fundamentals of basketball, teamwork and Falcon pride.

Former Falcon basketball star Bob Porter is the architect of the Glenn Basketball Association youth basketball league (http://www.gbabasketball.net). GBA was started five years ago after Bob was approached by boys basketball coach Travis Hannah to help start up an AAU (Amateur Athletic

Union) team. Bob envisioned a great-er opportunity to involve even more kids in learning the game and a way to teach them to re-spect the proud tra-dition of John Glenn Basketball, which includes several sec-tional titles and a re-gional crown as well.

The program is open to boys five years old through eleven years old, and was structured to include many of the good ideas of league play in other cities. Bob then added a few ideas of his own. “That first year our main concern was to get the program started,” Bob shared. “I made up pamphlets and distributed them to area schools and retail businesses. We have had good community support right from the beginning. We started with 65 boys. Since then we have grown and now have125 boys participating in our program.”

Many local residents and parents help coach the teams and Bob is very grateful to each of them. He feels that their support shows that the community shares his vision.

“If you start a boy in this program at the age of five, he will get six years of basketball experience and be ready to play 5th grade basketball at his school,” Bob explained. “That gives a kid a head start on organized ball.”

There are three divisions broken down by age. The first division consists of kindergarten and 1st grade boys, who play with a rim height of eight feet. The second division

is the 2nd and 3rd graders and the third division is called the “A” division and is the 4th and 5th graders. Both the 2nd and 3rd divi-

sions play with the rim set at ten feet.

The cost is 50.00 per boy for the six week season. Practices and games are all in one day and held on only six Saturdays, mak-ing it convenient for all concerned. The season ends with a pizza party and trophy

presentation.

“Each game has four quarters. Each quarter is six minutes long,” Bob said. “Every boy will play a minimum of two quar-ters per game. We match the boys up with colored wrist bands before the game. This helps them to keep track of which boy they are guarding throughout the game.”

Bob, who referees all the games added, “If you learn to use your head in basketball, to make good decisions, you can be a good player, especially at the high school level. Our program offers kids a chance to be together, and learn the fundamentals of basketball. The principals learned on the court will help them in making good life choices as well.”

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By Kelly B. Robbins

Most kids are naturally drawn to the speed and excitement of dirt bike racing. They “scratch their itch” by spending hours playing

Motocross Mania on their Playstation. 7 year old Greg Stewart III is drawnto dirt bike racing too. But the similarity to other kids ends there, for Greg spends his hours actually riding his Cobra CX50 JR dirt bike on the practice track. He rides because it’s fun, it’s exciting, and he rides to win.

This tough little guy has been riding dirt bikes for 5-1/2 years and racing dirt bikes for 3 years. He ran his first race at the Log Road Motocross in Bronson, MI at the age of 4. Last year he was leading a race when his bike broke down. He walked the bike over half a lap just to cross the finish line and take the checkered flag. He’s gearing up now to run a full national AMA schedule for 2012, and is gunning for a national title.

Dad, Greg Jr., is a former motocross contender who was seriously injured and forced to retire from racing early in his career. He is passionate about the sport He’s also passionate about his son’s racing. “Every time my boy swings his leg over that bike”, he said, “it’s a most memorable moment for me.”

“I bought him a 50cc bike when he was 1-1/2,” dad shared. “I put training wheels on it, showed him the throttle and he just took off from there.” The training wheels came off at age 2, and Greg was racing by age 4. Does the word “natural” come to mind?

Greg’s motocross success is aided by his families support and sacrifices. The family owns and operates Pro Choice Powersports in Elkhart selling and servicing dirt bikes, ATV’s and snowmobiles. Greg’s motocross racing is a full time family endeavor. “We have all sacrificed a lot to help Greg get to the top,” mom, Danielle said. “This is my life. I really look forward to every race.”

Sponsorship is essential to a continued successful road to the pro level. This type of racing can cost upwards of $20,000 each season. The family is very grateful to sponsors Cobra Motorcycles, Barefoot Motocross, and Curtis Custom Trailers. Also thanks go to Grandpa and Grandma and Uncle Dave for the gas money and help they have provided.

Greg Jr. just recently signed a 3 year race development deal with Cobra Motorcycles for Greg III. If Greg wins the title or finishes in the top 5, he will land a coveted full sponsorship. This will take the financial pressure off and help to focus on winning races.

Dad is Greg’s coach, crew chief, and mentor. They have a rigorous daily training

schedule that helps to keep Greg sharp...and safe. With stop watch in hand, dad guides Greg through each practice session, analyzing

and fine tuning his performance on each lap. Focus and position on the bike are areas where adjustments can be

made that make the difference in a race.

“I do everything in my power to give my kid

every advantage possible,” Greg Jr. stated.

To help explain why Greg’s practice sessions are so important, Pro Choice Powersports teammate Denver Rigsby, 15, offered “When you’re at the starting line, you just concentrate on beating the track for that moto. You have to have tunnel vision. You don’t see the other riders, you just see the track. If you can beat the track, you can win the race.”

Marty Rigsby, Denver’s dad added “Position on the bike is so important. Kids get hurt when they get out of position.”

Mom and dad better make sure there’s plenty of room on the trophy shelf. At the grand old age of 7, Greg III has definite plans for the future. His short range goal is to win a title. His long range goal is to turn pro, and his goal for every race is to win.

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MO

TOC

ROS

S

MOJO

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We all have wondered what it’s like to fly through the air and hear only the wind drowning out the sounds of every-day life as we touch the sky. For skiing aerialists Zach and Dakota, that experience is what they call practice.

Zach Surell, 13, and Dakota Fochs, 15, are tackling a sport that few attempt and even less master. Aerial skiing is a sport that takes competitors down a ski slope, off a ramp, and high in the air to perform flips and twists before landing on a blanket of snow.

Before the tandem could even think about doing such acrobatics in snow, they had to practice in the water. While Swiss Valley in Jones, Mi is their homebase for snow, they had to travel to Ohio to test the waters. Longtime aerial coach Bill Harris built a ramp that takes Zach and Dakota down a man made ramp and into waters

outside his home. “My ramp in Ohio is 100 ft long with a 12 ft kicker. They make it up to about 20 to 24 ft in the air,” Coach Harris stated.

With an amazing coach in Harris, and the facilities to practice, the boys were able to start at such an early age. “Zach came out when he was just 10. I talked with his parents and told them I hadn’t had much luck with 10 year olds training. I said I would allow him to jump but to just be aware. Well, Zach proved me completely wrong and I’m glad he did,” Harris says with a smile. As for Dakota, he started a year later. “I think he was one of the most excited kids I’d ever seen when he came out for the first time. He couldn’t wait to go down that ramp,” stated Harris.

Zach and Dakota were in-troduced to Harris by Swiss Valley Terrain Park Manager and Freestyle coach Mark Osborne. Osborne knew they had all the tools to succeed. “When I first started working with Zach and Dakota, I saw a talent. But I also saw the support from their parents, and that’s a key ingredient. Bill saw not only the talent in these boys, but also the ability to take direction and listen.”

After just a couple years of practice, they were invited to come out to a talent camp at the Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid, NY. It was a week of training with coaches like Eric Bergoust, who won a Gold Medal in Nagano, Japan. It is there that they learn and practice with the very best. While they have made the trip to Lake Placid, there are others that are trying to make that dream happen. Osborne is also working with local JD Bowbish and keeping the “feeder” system going for Harris and the US team.

Both Zach and Dakota have a goal of making it to the Olympics. With plans of spending half of the summer in Ohio training, and the other half in Lake Placid, they are putting in the hard work needed. “Desire is almost more important than talent at times. If they want to do it so bad, they’ll figure out a way to get it done,” concluded Harris.

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THE WAYOF THE

HAND & FOOTTaekwondo seems to be a sport of “threes.” The origins of

Taekwondo are deeply rooted in the three Korean traditions of courtesy, honor and respect. As a martial

art, Taekwondo trains a student in the three basic elements of discipline, self-control and self-defense. Even the name is divided into three parts: Tae (foot) kwon (hand) and do (way or method).

Loosely translated, it means “The way of the hand and foot”.

Grandmaster Soon Pil Hong, 9th Dan (degree) black belt and owner of Hong’s USA Taekwondo dojang in Niles, MI (www.hongsusataekwondo.com) has dedicated his life to training young athletes in the traditional art of Taekwondo. “We focus our training on developing mental strength in addition to physical strength. This is a winning combination,” Grandmaster Hong shared. “Respect, commitment, and sweat, that’s what makes a champion.”

True to his passion, Grandmaster Hong is training 16- year-old Alex Neal for the 2016 Olympic games in Rio

De Janeiro. Alex is the current National Junior Champion in Taekwondo Sparring, having won the gold medal at the 2011 U.S. National Taekwondo Championship this fall in Philadelphia.

Alex is a sophomore at St. Joseph High School in South Bend where his favorite subjects are science and computer graphics.” Taekwondo teaches you to give your best in everything you do,” remarked Alex. While he enjoys the outdoors, hunting and the west, his main focus is Taekwondo, and the 2016 Olympics.

This 4th Dan (degree) black belt began his Taekwondo training with Grandmaster Hong at the age of 3. Alex’s dad, Dr. Trevor Neal, who is a foot surgeon and also a 4th Dan (degree) black belt, explained: “I started Alex in Taekwondo at the age of 3, because I know what it has done for me in my life. I started training in Taekwondo when I was 8 years old. When I moved to this area, I researched and found Grandmaster Hong, who teaches traditional Taekwondo. There is great emphasis on mental toughness, honesty and respect. Taekwondo has made me a very disciplined person. I have achieved success in business and in life because of my training.”

Family is very important to Alex. Mom, Christine, is an attorney and holds an honorary black belt for her work promoting Taekwondo at the national level. 12 year old twin sisters Abigail and Isabel both hold 1st Dan (degree) black belts. Because of the close family relationship the Neal’s share with Grandmaster Hong and the Korean grandmasters who trained him, “family” extends clear to the other side of the globe to South Korea as well.

For the past eight summers, Alex has traveled to South Korea to train with the Olympic gold medal winning Korean national team. He has trained with Grandmaster

By Kelly B. Robbins

15

Kim Sung-Bae and Grandmaster Lee Byung Chae, who both trained Grandmaster Hong. Alex has also recently worked with female Master Shim Hye Young, the current South Korean Olympic coach.

“It is an indescribable feeling to be trained by the best of the best,” Alex said. “To know that nobody who walks the earth is better than these masters at Taekwondo.”

While in South Korea, Alex trains 9 hours a day, seven days a week. He is considered part of the family there and gets no special treatment. These are grueling workouts designed to develop physical and mental toughness. “It is not for fun, it is for real,” explained Grandmaster Hong. “Students

are entrusted to the grandmasters. They eat, sleep and live Taekwondo, performing thousands of kicks daily.”

Alex Neal is one tough champion. “One year Alex hurt his foot about three days from the end of his summer training.” Dr. Neal disclosed.”He couldn’t even put on a shoe. But he never said a word to anyone, just finished up his training. When he got back home we discovered he had broken his foot.”

The Olympic style Taekwondo sparring that Alex trains for is full contact. Contestants wear head gear, chest pads and shin and forearm guards for protection. Alex will compete in regional and state tournaments, as well as the U.S. Nationals as he trains for the 2016 summer games. His next contest will be the Indiana State Taekwondo Championship on April 27 & 28 at South Bend’s Century Center.

So what does Alex’s future look like beyond the 2016 Olympics? “I want to own a ranch in Montana,” Alex announced. “I will also continue in Taekwondo with my dad and Grandmaster Hong.”

Grandmaster Hong is the Unites States Olympic Committee Referee Chairman. He and Dr. Neal are traveling the country hosting seminars to re-train instructors. The goal is to unify the teaching techniques and requirements for the black belt nationwide, and eliminate false credentialing.

Honesty and respect are the basics of traditional Taekwondo. “How you develop in character is more important than the rank stripe of your belt,” Dr. Neal shared.

“Traditional Taekwondo is based on trust between master and student,” added Grandmaster Hong. “There is only one gold medal available in 2016. We are training Alex to win that medal.”

Grandmaster Soon Pil Hong, Ph.D.9th Degree Black Belt Taekwondo - Jidokwan Korea, 8th Degree Black Belt

Taekwondo - Kukkiwon, 8th Degree Black Belt Korea Habgido (Hapkido), 8th Degree Black Belt Korea Gumdo (Sword), U.S. Referee Chairman: Poomdae (Forms) - USA Taekwondo (M.A.C.), President of Indiana State Taekwondo Association (Affiliated

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16

By Kelly B. Robbins

presented toThe HC Award winner for the March/April issue is Mulligans 4 Life. Many great ideas are born from a single, inspired moment. Mulligan’s 4 Life is just such an idea. “I took my 8 year old son, Dominic, to the driving range at Nick’s Golf center”, shared Eric Burns, CEO and President. “He hit a really great shot and the look on his face was priceless!”

“Later that same day, I was watching PGA golf on TV”, Eric continued. “Tiger Woods was making a great comeback and I wondered just how different Tiger’s life would be if he had grown up in a typical inner-city family. Golf is not a cheap sport. You need golf clubs, a bag, shoes, tees, and balls. These expenses practically guarantee that a kid from an underprivileged family will never have an opportunity to play the game of golf.”

Thus Mulligans 4 Life was born on Oct.18, 2009. This non-profit company works directly with the Tolson Center in Elkhart and area golf pros to provide an opportunity for kids from 1st through 8th grade to learn and play the game of golf.

“We teach the kids the game of golf”, offered Eric, “but we also help the program participants develop skills that will set them up for success in life. This is achieved by teaching them the principals of our company: honesty, ethics, respect, self-discipline and pride.”

The original program was designed to team kids up with local golf pros and area college golf student- athletes at the center. They were taught the fundamentals, and given the opportunity to “play” golf within the confines of the center.

“But we are going in a different direction this summer,” Eric explained. “Ten kids will be given the opportunity to learn golf by actually going to a golf course and playing golf with a pro and two mentors. This is a trial run. If successful, we plan to expand and offer the program to Boys and Girls Clubs in surrounding cities.”

There is no cost to the kids or the center. The center will provide

transportation to a local golf course. For two weeks, Monday through Friday, kids will

play golf on a real golf course. They will learn to play a sport they can enjoy for the rest of their lives.

Funding for this program is totally by donation. Mulligans 4 Life is a 501c3 non-profit company, and will host a CHARITY GOLF OUTING on Saturday, June 23 @ 8:00am at Juday Creek Golf Course. The cost is $60.00 per person that includes green fee, cart, range balls, 4 free drinks, food, and a $ 20.00 off coupon for your next golf outing. Golfers please register by June 10. Teams are filling up fast though so the sooner the better.

“We are accepting private donations and $50.00 sponsorships,” Eric said. “We are also raffling off a Nike bag and set of Nike VR Pro Cavity irons, worth over $1,000.00. Many thanks to Nick’s Golf Center in Elkhart for helping to coordinate these prizes. I can be contacted at 574-315-3236 or eric@mulligans4life.com. All donations are tax deductible.”

“These young participants get a feeling of individual accomplishment, as well as a taste of team effort,” Eric concluded. “As is true in most sports, the kids learn fundamentals that are excellent stepping stones to success in life.”

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MMAFROM ‘HOODometimes professional athletes use their talents to help themselves.

Sometimes they use their skills to help others in their community. And sometimes they can do both.

Such is the case for local mixed martial artist Joe Alexander from Elkhart.

Alexander has been involved in the local fight scene for a long time. He started in 1999 and has paid his dues. He has scrapped and rolled with just about everyone around, and everyone around the area knows him. He loves the sport and respects everyone who participates in it if they do it with integrity.

“It’s all about the love,” said Alexander. “It’s a passion. I don’t consider it a sport, it’s a lifestyle. It’s me. Everything is the truth in there, whether I submit you or you submit me, it’s real. If I knock you out or you knock me out, it’s real. It’s the truth.”

Alexander doesn’t pull any punches, in the ring, or in an interview. He comes straight ahead, with a smile on his face or even a wink after he’s been hit. It’s been said he’s the People’s Champ, and that’s something he takes very seriously.

“If I get hit, I keep coming forward,” said Alexander. “I get an amazing response from the fans and I am going to smile – win or lose. I want everyone to feel it when I am in there. You are going to get your money’s worth.” Asked what type of fighter he is stylistically, he replies, “My style is whoop ass. Whatever happens in the ring, I’m fighting to win.”

That said, Alexander started his career as a slugger, or a “backyard boxer,” as he put it. Later, he learned to grapple and has become a practitioner of kick boxing, jiu jitsu and muay thai. You could call him a practitioner of all and a master of none.

“I will always be a practitioner. I’m constantly working to get better. I’m 35 years old and still putting it to them,” Alexander said. “It is a constant progression of learning.

It never stops. You never completely solve the puzzle because the puzzle always changes.”

Alexander has no delusions of grandeur. He knows the UFC isn’t calling, and for the most part, he’s ok with that. He knows he’s towards the end of his career and he’s content with where he is in life. His current record is 9-5, but that is not what is important here.

What is important is that he has a story to tell (a ton of them actually). A story of luck, of timing, of passion and of retribution. A story of a man

who fell, got back up, kept coming forward and is trying to give back to others for his past transgressions.

The Hershey Bar

The story of Joe Alexander cannot be told without mentioning his favorite candy bar. The back story: When Joe was nine years old, living in The Hole, his step father would take him to the park. While there, they would have fights where they would bet on the winners (something he didn’t know at the time). That’s where he “first learned to scrap a little.” His step father would give him the candy bar for fighting.

Today, thousands of chocolate bars are thrown Alexander’s way, every time he steps in the ring. His back story went viral a few years ago and it is his fan’s way of showing their appreciation. “It’s an amazing thing to see 50,000 people throwing candy bars at you.”

By Rob Smith

“It’s an amazing thing to see 50,000 people throwing

candy bars at you.”

TO GOOD

19

MMAThe Nickname

Joe Alexander is known as “Hoodzilla” or the “Ghetto Godzilla.” Both names seem out of place for the fighter turned teacher and coach. He lives a quiet family life with his wife Wendy and their two sons. He works full time and trains and coaches on the side. He’s quiet and composed, affable and humorous as he tells stories of his youth that intersect with some of the biggest names in the sport. If he gets going long enough, you can see a spark in his eyes as he gets excited about the sport he loves.

The nickname comes from his friend and partner Todd Brown of the Midwest Martial Arts. “Godzilla wasn’t always around, but you did fear him,” states Alexander. “When I get in the gym or the ring, that’s when the gangster comes out. I have my own language in there, it’s my swagger. It’s like the old saying, ‘You can take the boy out of the hood, but you can’t take the hood out of the boy.’”

The Boy Who Fell

Alexander was a product of the hood. He was on the streets a lot and didn’t have a lot growing up. At age 16, he went

“buck wild.” He joined a gang and started stealing cars. He was

selling drugs and hanging out with thugs.

By 18, he was out of his parent’s house and learning how to live life on the streets. He was mak-ing and selling crack, LSD and anything else that was avail-

able. When he wasn’t selling, he was using

and his life was spiraling downward. The low point

came on a trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan where he was

using cocaine, pistol whipped and robbed someone and ended up going to jail.

While in jail, Alexander knew he needed to change, but was unsure he would be able to with his addictive personality. He learned a series of lessons while in jail. Among them, “Prison was crazy and I didn’t want to go back.” He also learned, “Who I am as a person. It gave me time to stop and think who I was. It showed me a lot in life, who my real friends were and that I don’t need anyone else to stand on my own two feet.”

One of his favorite quotes is something he also learned while in prison. “The way you think controls the way you act, you control the way you think, you can control the way you act.”

The Man Who Got Back Up

One of the first things Alexander did when he got out of prison was to join a gym and start to learn various mixed martial arts. He also moved in with his aunt, Barb, so he could leave his neighborhood behind. In addition, he also rekindled a friendship with Wendy that quickly turned into a marriage.

In an ironic twist of fate, the gym he joined was owned by a police officer and most of its clientele were also officers. He began building relationships with them and learned American Kickboxing, and got pretty good at it, pretty quickly. He fought Neil Singleton, Jr., son of the legendary championship fighter, in his first bout in Mich-igan City.

While training, he met Luiz Filho, who even-tually trained him in Jiu Jitsu. Filho revolved back to legendary Gra-cie family. But Alex-ander had to work for that, too. “I told him, I can’t sing and I can’t dance but I can fight a little, will you train me?” Filho did, but not after making Alexander fight a 15 year old and a girl and get caught in tri-angle after triangle by both of them.

“He made me do exer-cises forever and I kept coming back. I kept getting beat by that kid and a girl, but eventually he started to teach me jiu jitsu. Me and Luiz we eventually parted paths after six years of him training me. We had different ideas about the direction we wanted to go. I wanted to do MMA, he wanted me to do jiu jitsu. We split on good terms and I respect and love him very much.”

continued on next page...

20

Alexander continued his partnership with Todd Brown and they shared the same vision, which became Midwest Martial Arts. Together, they’ve built a fully functional martial arts gym that has sent guys to the UFC and is producing a lot of quality fighters.

Making Amends

With his career winding down, Alexander spends a lot of his time trying to grow the sport of MMA in the area. He hopes to one day make a living out of teaching the sport he loves, but right now cannot do it financially. Instead, he helps with a lot of the up and comers.

He also has found a new passion in trying to instill the same principles that he believes saved his life to at-risk kids in the area. He wants the kinds of kids that are “unteachable” or “unreachable”, or the “ones that don’t have a chance to succeed,” because that’s where he was and he wants to make amends for his past.

“I want the kids that are troubled – the ones that feel like they don’t belong. I can reach them and give them something positive; an outlet for what is bothering them and the discipline to make things better. You can overcome anything.”

The Bottom Line: What is Important to Hoodzilla?

“I’m not faking anything. Teaching and MMA is my passion. I love it.”

Alexander is a gym rat at heart. He just wants to be in the ring and you get the sense that he gets as much love or more out of training others as he does fighting for himself. He wants others to learn from his mistakes and to gain a better addiction-the addiction that comes from all of the discipline and integrity and intensity found in MMA.

Joe Alexander, in whatever incarnation, Hoodzilla or otherwise, has come to the realization that mixed martial arts has given him a shot at life. It has also given him a shot to make a difference in the lives of others.

“I have a life now, that might be my greatest accomplish-ment,” said Alexander. “Mixed martial arts has given me a life, it saved mine. It’s my outlet, my salvation, my church and my release.”

“I never thought I was a public figure or a role model because I destroyed so many lives early on,” laments Alexander. “Teaching gives me… it helps me give back to the community. I am giving back to society for all of my wrongs.”

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FIGHT RESULTSChase Davis vs. Trent Smith

Chase Davis (1st Round Submission)

Charles Cheney vs. Steve Clark Steve Clark (1st Round TKO/RSC)

Justin Campbell vs. Ryan LeAchel Justin Campbell (1st Round TKO/RSC)

Pablo Pedraza vs. Wesley Wickizer Pablo Pedraza (2nd Round Submission)

Matthew Darmer vs. Scott Bradley Scott Bradley (2nd Round Submission)

Aaron Hartman vs. Daniel Oikion Aaron Hartman (1st Round KO)

Robert Thornton vs. Michael Junk Robert Thornton (1st Round Submission)

Tony Holley vs. Joshua Slocum Tony Holley (2nd Round Submission)

CENTURY

CENTER

23

FIGHT RESULTSCurt Robinson vs. Daxton Guericke

Daxton Guericke (3rd Round Submission)

Jonathan Bandy vs. Chris Howard Jonathan Bandy (2nd Round KO)

Trent Keyser vs. Ryan Bice Trent Keyser (1st Round Submission)

Stephen Holt vs. John Popi John Popi (3rd Round Decision)

Edward Haines vs. Kenneth Elder Jr. Kenneth Elder Jr. (1st Round Submission)

Brandon Shelhart vs. Jose Garcia Brandon Shelhart (2nd Round TKO/RSC)

Tyler Hufnagle vs. Aaron Smith Tyler Hugnagle (3rd Round Submission)

FEBRUARY 5, 2012

24

“Let sleeping dogs lie” is an old saying that means if you wake them up, they will tear you up. When you walk into Team Renegade gym, it’s

somehow like stepping on that sleeping dog. There is just something about the sights, sounds, and smells that nudge the sleeping “hometown contender” inside, and you suddenly want to put on the gloves, climb through the red, white and blue ropes of the boxing ring, and have at it with anyone who dares.

Owner, coach and trainer Bud Wilson started this Goshen fight training gym two years ago. “I was training in Michi-gan and I wanted something closer to home, where I didn’t have to drive an hour and a half every day,” Bud explained. “At first there were about 3 guys here. Now we have about 20 regulars. The youngest is just eight years old.”

Bud has over 20 years in boxing and he considers “straight-up boxing” Team Renegade’s offered specialty. He still gets into that red-floored ring and mixes it up occasionally. While there is a strong emphasis on boxing, other MMA training goes on here as well.

The atmosphere at this local boxing and MMA training facility is amazing. “It’s team and it’s family,” offered new member Rico Robinson. “And coach Bud really pushes you. That’s going to help me to be the best I can be.”

“I like working with young kids,” shared Bud. “I tell them to learn as much as they can from each person they fight. The lessons learned in the ring or in the cage are lessons they will carry in life.”

Jeremy Brown has been training at Team Renegade for about a year. “I needed to find somewhere closer to home to train,” Jeremy shared. “I knew Bud and felt he would be a good coach. I really thought I had a decent stand-up,

but when I started training with Bud, I found out there was a lot I didn’t know.”

Both a straight up boxer and an MMA fighter, Jeremy added, “I’ll always be an MMA guy, but I’m working to get my boxing license in the next two or three months. The stand-up training has really helped me in the cage.”

Jeremy is impressed with Bud’s coaching skills. “As a coach, Bud connects with you,” Jeremy said.

“He strives to instill the art of boxing, and he works with you until you get it. There is a strong team atmosphere here and you are really part of the family.”

“If you’re going to be successful, you have to put in the time,” reflected Jeremy. “It takes a lot of time, a lot of sparring. I only have one speed and that is hard- I go hard all the time. Some people give up and they want to sit out. I don’t sit out, I just go try to hook up with sparring partners that like to go as hard as I do. That pushes me.”

One sparring partner that Jeremy enjoys challenging is Arturo Rodriguez, a 22 year-old super welter weight straight-up boxer who has been a member of Team Renegade for about three months. Arturo began boxing down in Mexico, where he has an impressive record of nine wins and one draw. His record here is five wins and one loss.

“Team Renegade is my boxing gym, and coach Bud is pushing me to be my best,” shared this Ivy Tech student. “I’m chasing my dream to turn pro. My goal is to win a world title. My family, my team and my dreams push me to work hard.”

While majoring in business and minoring in physical education, this young boxer has definite plans for the future. “Someday I hope to open my own gym. With my education, I’ll be able to handle the business side as well as the coaching side.”

Arturo describes why he chose Team Renegade. “You gotta have heart and you gotta fight smart. I have the heart and coach Bud teaches the smart.”

By Kelly B. RobbinsTeam Renegade

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By Charlie Adams Motivational Speaker/Author

and former WSBT TV Sports Anchor

In all the years I was a TV News Sports Anchor, I had the opportunity to interview one-on-one such dynamic achievers as Michael

Jordan, Tiger Woods, Sugar Ray Leonard, and triathlete Paula Newby-Fraser. It would be easy to write in depth about them, but in my articles and motivational talks you will find a great deal of content centered on “people like you and me.” These are people that are committed and determined to reach excellence, but who aren’t famous. To be honest, I think we can relate to them better. Plus, you don’t have to be famous or a newsmaker to be a Peak Performer who is the very best at what you do.

The story of Darin Pritchett is an example. He’s not famous nationally. It doesn’t matter. He seeks excellence in all that he does. Darin hosts a nightly radio talk show known as “Weekday SportsBeat” on News Talk 960 radio in South Bend, IN. I tune in when I can, and am always impressed with the professionalism of the show. One time, I had just finished delivering the Stoke the Fire Within motivational program when a northern Indiana corporate businessman came up to me and said, “Charlie, I listen to that Darin Pritchett. I’ve listened to him for years. I have never heard him say ‘Uh’ or ‘Um’ or ‘you know’ or anything like that. Ever!”

“Really?” I answered, with a surprised look on my face. I had never really thought about it, but surely Darin had an ‘Uh’ in there once or twice! After all, he was on the air 120 minutes a night, 5 nights a week.

I called Darin and asked him about the “Uh” situation. “Well, Charlie,” he answered in a humble manner, “I don’t believe I have ever said “uh” on air. When I decided to go into this profession I made a commitment to speak the English language in a very professional manner. I decided that if I ever did have to pause for thought I would do just that ñ pause for thought. I studied people like Bob Costas and other high achievers that had excellent control of their speech.”

Ever since then I have listened to Darin, intently waiting for an ‘Uh.’ I’m still waiting.

THAT is excellence! He does it night in and night out on a fairly small radio station in northern Indiana. He doesn’t set a standard for excellence because he is on a national radio show. He does it because it is the thing to do, regardless of the magnitude of the show. Darin and his highly respected co-hosts Rick Carter and Eric Hansen have a large sized, loyal audience in their area because their program is built on consistently being excellent.

Peak Performers don’t settle. They don’t necessarily have to work unreal hours every day and live unbalanced lives, but they get to where they can’t do anything but get better day after day. They relish new challenges. Former Notre Dame Football coach Lou Holtz used to

SeekIng excellence… no Matter What Your Sport IS

27

say, “If what you did yesterday seems important, you haven’t done anything today.”

I covered Notre Dame Athletics for sixteen years. The main reason I came to WSBT TV in South Bend in 1988 was that I wanted to cover true student-athletes that sought excellence in everything that they did. I found no shortage of that in covering Notre Dame athletes. When I am speaking to audiences, people often ask me who the most impressive athlete I have covered is. Without hesitation I say Vanessa Pruzinsky. They look at me like, “Who’s that?”

Vanessa carried a perfect 4.0 grade point average her entire time at Notre Dame in CHEMICAL ENGINEERING! How hard is that?

She was only the third person in the University’s history to do that, and the first female.ever. At the same time she was also a starter on the powerhouse soccer team. Vanessa was the Rookie of the Year in the Big East Conference in 1999. She was a key player on a team that was consistently ranked in the top five in the nation, and that has won three national championships in the past 15 years.

She achieved excellence as a student and as an athlete. Vanessa was committed and determined. She had one brutally tough class that led her to tears. The librarian would often have to wake her up at 2 in the morning so that she could go back to her room for some sleep. As an athlete she had to have ankle surgery one season, but

came back to lead a defense that allowed just 5 goals in one 19 game stretch.

She was excellence. Not excellent, excellence. It was her state of being. She was as close to perfection as any high achiever I ever covered in my broadcasting career.

Years ago, I had a long sit-down interview with Pat Riley, who is now the Executive who built the Miami Heat with LeBron, D-Wade, and Chris Bosh. He said something I have always rememembered.

“Charlie,” he said as he leaned forward, “excellence is the gradual result of always striving to

be better.”

That says it all!

Charlie Adams is a motivational speaker who speaks on such peakperformance topics as Attitude, Team, Leadership and Service to Customers. He is the author of “Stoke the Fire Within” (Corby Books). You can learn more about his motivational programs at StokeTheFireWithin.com. Charlie also hosts group travel experiences for Edgerton’s Travel. He has upcoming trips such as Adventurous Alaska as well as Ireland and New Mexico and the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Approaching 50 in July, Charlie is on fire to be in the best shape of his life. He will be writing motivational articles for Hometown Contender readers on a regular basis.

28

By Kelly B. Robbins

Remember Friday nights in a crowded gym cheering your high school basketball team to victory? Remember the cute little cheerleaders that would run out on the floor during every time out, wave their pom-poms and lead the crowd in a cheer something like: “two, four, six, eight! Who do we appreciate!”?

While there are still cheerleaders cheering their teams to victory on Friday nights, cheerleading itself has developed into a nationwide competition sport. All-Star cheerleading involves an amazing combination of tumbling, jumping and gymnastics that is performed by seasoned and trained athletes.

The ICE Athletic Center ( info@ice-gym.com) in Mishawaka offers a complete cheerleading training program. They have 6 teams that cover levels 1-4 of competition, from ages 3 through 18. These hometown contenders are being trained by some of the best tumbling coaches in Indiana.

Two of the most notable All-Star teams are ICE THUNDER and ICE FREEZE. These teams consistently place in the top at local and national competitions.

ICE THUNDER is a senior level 3 co-ed team that has 25 athletes from 9-18 years old. ICE THUNDER just returned from the 2012 Cheersport Nationals in Atlanta, where they placed an impressive 7th out of over 1,000 teams participating. “THUNDER has competed three other times,” shared cheer and tumbling director Lisa Filbert, “earning two first place trophies and a third place.”

ICE FREEZE is a senior level 4 co-ed team that has 17 athletes from 11-18 years old. ICE FREEZE also just returned from the Cheersport Nationals where they placed 11th. “FREEZE has also competed three other times”, Lisa Filbert added, “earning two third place trophies and a fourth place.”

The competition season runs from October through March. “Our schedule is year ‘round, and we have try-outs every year in May.” Lisa said. “ This year our

try-outs are on May 1,2 and 3. We choose teams and begin practicing right away, putting things together all summer. We have choreography at the end of summer to learn the routines we compete.”

I.C.E. began as I.ndiana C.heer E.lite when the program was created by owner and head level 5 coach Darlene Fanning back in 1998. She started with 30 athletes in a rented corner of a local gymnastic facility. As quoted from the ICE website, “Darlene Fanning single handedly laid the groundwork for one of the most successful All-Star Cheerleading programs in the country. What started as 30 kids in the corner of a gymnastics gym has grown into a program serving over 250 athletes in both competitive cheer and dance and in tumbling classes.”

“When ICE moved into the current 50,000 square foot facility in Mishawaka in 2006, ICE was changed to I Can Excel.” disclosed Lisa.“ This encompasses the complete sport, health and fitness facilities now available here.”

ICE has grown to include a facility in Fort Wayne, opened in 2009 and another in Aurora, IL, which opened in 2011. Three of the Mishawaka athletes also perform with the Fort Wayne group BLACK ICE, which took home a 2nd place from the 2012 Cheersport Nationals in Atlanta.

Over the years, the ICE All-Stars have appeared in Cheerleader Magazine, on ESPN, Good Morning America and Fox Sports.

“We have one competition left,” Lisa announced. “It is the Great Lakes Cheer Competition “The Showdown” in Detroit on March 16, 17, and 18. After that, we will hold our April skill-building opportunity right after spring break. Then we have our try-outs in May. We invite anyone who is interested in All-Star cheerleading to check us out and come join the fun!”

29

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KART ATTACK! By Kelly B. Robbins

Go-karts are designed to give the average person a taste of racing and a touch of glory. But for some, the screaming tires and angry buzz of the racing engine awakens something deep inside that keeps them coming back for more. Speed...racing...winning!

Jacob Ruppe is one of those people. Racing karts is more than a hobby, it is a passion. Jacob won the 2011 Rotax Micro Max Championship at Michiana Raceway Park (www.michianaracewaypark.com) in North Liberty. Last year he took top honors in the Yamaha Rookie One Division at the same track as a nine year old.

Go-karting began in the late 1950’s with small parking lot events. The “go” has since been dropped from the name and “karting” has become a worldwide multi-billion dollar motorsport. It is an inexpensive and realistic training ground for anyone eying a future in one of the many forms of professional motorsports. In fact, many of today’s top professional drivers began their careers in kart racing. Tony Stewart, the

reigning 2011 NASCAR Sprint Cup champion, is a good example. He began racing karts at the age of 7.

Jacob has been racing karts since the age of 5. Racing is just in his blood. Dad, Scott has been a casual racer of many vehicles for much of his life and great grandad, Roy Wilson, raced late models in Iowa and was recently inducted into

the Hawkeye Downs Speedway “Wall of Fame”. Carrying on the family tradition, Jacob proudly sports great granddad’s number 12 on his racing kart.

Jacob races and practices at Michiana Raceway Park, with occasional trips to Rolling Green Raceway in Buchanan, MI. He is planning to race in the Rotax Micro Max division again this year. Rotax is the Austrian manufacturer of the water cooled engines used in this class. The karts ride a mere one inch off the ground and reach speeds in excess of 50 mph.

It all began in 2008 when Jacob, Scott and grandpa Dave Hoffman went to the Cavalcade of Wheels at Notre Dame and came across the Michiana Raceway Park booth, where they were bit by the

“Jacob is usually a calm, quiet person,” shared Scott. “But put him in that kart and he’s a different person.

31

KART ATTACK! By Kelly B. Robbins

“karting bug”. Later that spring they visited the racetrack, bought a kart, and began racing.

Jacob raced in the Kid Kart division that first year, where he scored his first win. Dad and grandpa function as his pit crew and work to set up the kart for each race.

“My most exciting moment was Jacob’s first win in Kid Karts”, said Scott. “I’m proud to see my kid win. He just goes and slams it in a corner and passes someone. It really gets you excited.”

Jacob started 2009 in the Kid Kart division, but quickly moved up to the Yamaha Rookie One class part way through the season. Jacob continued racing in the Yamaha division in 2010, where he won 5 races on his way to his first championship.

“It’s just so much fun”, Jacob declared. “Whenever you get behind the wheel you get excited.”

“Jacob is usually a calm, quiet person,” shared Scott. “But put him in that kart and he’s a different person. He goes wild!”

What does mom, Amy, have to say about her son’s kart racing?

“In the beginning, I was hesitant”, Amy admits. “But I did some research and most injuries to kids come from stick and ball sports. Jacob has a good head and a unique

balance between his competitiveness and his skill. With the coaching of his dad and grandpa, he uses the practice sessions to fine tune his maneuvers so that he is confident of what he can do when he is in actual competition.”

Jacob, a third grade student at Holy Family School, has enjoyed making new friends through his kart racing. He met fellow kart racer Tommy Burke while racing and the two have become fast friends.

The Ruppes want to especially thank all the wonderful sponsors who have helped provide the funding necessary to field a kart competitively. The 2012 season is just around the corner, with the first MRP series race scheduled on April 15.

Jacob loves racing. He’s an avid NASCAR fan, and he loves going to the local races at the South Bend Motor Speedway. He also has a huge interest in a racing future.

“Jacob loves racing and really wants to have a future as a race driver,” Scott shared. “We are currently looking at the possibility of moving Jacob into quarter midgets in the near future, and later possibly stock car racing.”

There is no doubt that Jacob Ruppe will have a target on his back as he returns in 2012 to defend his Rotax Micro Max title. Unfortunately for his fellow kart drivers, when he climbs in that #12 kart, and puts the pedal to the metal, his back is likely all they are going to see!

“My most exciting moment was Jacob’s first

win in Kid Karts,” said Scott. “I’m proud to

see my kid win.”

32

Hometown Business SpotlightChances are if you frequent youth sporting events in the Michiana area, you’ve seen the familiar Martin’s Super Markets logo across the front of a youth baseball, softball, soccer or hockey uniform. Martin’s has long been a sponsor of local youth teams. The family-owned company has sponsored the “Martin’s High School Game of the Week” on WSBT Radio 960AM, during both football and basketball seasons for more than 25 years.

During half-time at many of those high school sporting events, Martin’s sponsors the entertainment through a half-time fundraising program. Students sell tickets for a chance to win a Martin’s gift card or cash by kicking a field goal or hitting a shot from the free-throw, 3-point or half-court marks.

Giving back to the communities the company serves has long been an integral part of the Martin’s corporate philosophy. The company’s founders, Martin and Jane Tarnow started that tradition nearly 65 years ago when they opened their first 800-square-foot store on Portage Avenue in South Bend.

“At Martin’s Super Markets, we believe in supporting the communities that support our stores,” commented Barb Levan, community affairs supervisor. “We play an active role in many of the fundraising and service efforts of organizations in the communities we serve.” The following are just some of the ways Martin’s is involved.

Heat for HomesIn the fall of 1989, Martin’s Super Markets initiated “Heat for Homes,” a program designed to provide energy assistance to needy families in the communities they

serve. Over the past 23 winters, customers, employees and vendors have made generous donations to the program. Martin’s matches those donations up to $10,000 annually. Since the program’s beginning, over $1.5 million in donations have been raised.

Roof Sit to Stop Child Abuse Every summer in June, WNDV-FM (U93 radio disc jockeys call the rooftop of Martin’s SR 23 and ironwood store in South Bend home for five days, rain or shine. During this week, U93, Martin’s, and other community leaders actively raise funds and awareness for child abuse prevention programs. Since 1996, over $1.8 million have been distributed among local agencies dedicated to the prevention of child abuse.

Stuff-A-BusEach year in the fall, customers help “stuff” school buses manned by student volunteer organizations with food and toiletry products for The South Bend Center for the Homeless, Faith Mission, and other social service agencies. Annually, over 50,000 pounds of food is collected.

Coaches vs. Cancer Coaches vs. Cancer is a collaboration between the National Association of Basketball Coaches, the American Cancer Society and others. Locally, Notre Dame Men’s Basketball Coach Mike Brey, Martin’s Super Markets, and the WSBT Radio Group hold a series of interactive fundraising events each year in August to generate funds for the fight against cancer.

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Trail Tough Champ ver the river and through the woods does not always lead to grand - mother’s house. Especially if you are

thirteen year old Mike Witkowski, and the KTM xc105 dirt bike you are riding carries you across the finish line in first place again. This Urey Middle School 7th grader is one of the best in the Super Mini class of off road dirt bike racing.

Off road cross country is dirt bike racing of a different flavor. “Most people, when they think dirt bike racing, typically think of motocross,” shared Mike’s dad, Ken Witkowski. “But off road is a whole different world of dirt bike racing.” He ought to know. Ken is a former flat track and cross country enduro racer who was the Indiana state AMA District 15 Enduro champion back in 1983.

A typical cross country youth course will wind for 4 or 5 miles through the woods where riders must navigate around rocks, trees and through creeks for a full 90 minutes. Off road cross country combines the skills necessary to make the jumps, climbs and turns of motocross with endurance.

“The start of each race is the craziest part,” Mike related. “You never know what’s going to happen.”

Ken and his wife Holly have produced a dirt bike racing family. Mike’s brothers, 25 year old Adam, 21 year old Tyler and 16 year old Alex are all former cross country champions. In fact, Alex is the reigning 2011 Open A class Indiana State Champion.

Mike got started at the age of 4 riding a 50cc motorcycle around the back yard before he even knew how to ride a bicycle.

“I put training wheels on the 50,” declared Ken. Mike won his first race at age 6 and has since compiled an impressive list of championships. These include OMA National Champion 85cc Junior Class, two time 65cc OMA National Champion, AMA D-15 Harescramble State Champion and AMA D-15 50cc Harescramble Champion.

2011 was a good year for Mike as he rode his #282 bike to several wins. He is the AMA D-15 Harescramble Super Mini class State Champion. His most memorable win, though, was at the Loretta Lynn GNCC (Grand National Cross Country) race. “At Loretta Lynn’s, I beat the youth rider of the year and the current #1 rider in the nation in the Super Mini class,” Mike said.

Ken added, “I’d say the Loretta Lynn win was the most satisfying. It’s a national level race and Mike beat Austin Lee, the national youth rider of the year. Mike is the only rider to beat him this year.”

The Plymouth Blackhawks course in Culver is considered Mike’s home course. Most races are held in other cities, which finds Ken, Alex and Mike traveling and camping together on race weekends. “I usually find myself sitting alone at the campfire,” chuckled Ken. “The boys hang out with some of the pros who travel and camp in motor homes. They are really great about giving the younger riders advice and pointers.”

“Mike’s plans for 2012 include racing in the AMA District 15 off road series and the MAXC off road series,” Ken continued. “The MAXC series will have Mike contending for the national championship in his class. If he wins, he will go to Las Vegas for the awards program.” Ken functions as Mike’s crew chief and coach. The first race of the new season is March 3.

By Kelly B. Robbins

The Witkowski’s would like to thank

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Mike has definite plans for his dirt

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exchange his 105cc bike for a 250cc or

larger bike. And the course lay-out will

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trail tough champ will be ready.

37

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“I’m faster, leaner, stronger and beating people that use to beat me in track and football. My track times have improved like crazy! I’ve added 5 inches to my chest and increased my squats to 400 lbs. up 35 pounds in 11 weeks!” ~ Blake, Michiana area High School Quarterback

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38

Taekwondo Champion

Alex Neal isPhotos by: Adam Olmstead