In the heart of the Riekes community, a remarkable tale of dedication and compassion unfolds through the journey of Cortney Weintz, one of the Center's students. His story is a testament to the spirit of achievement and support that defines Riekes and its mission to make a difference in the lives of its participants.
On October 22, 2023, Cortney Weintz achieved a remarkable feat that has left the Riekes community in awe. With unwavering determination, he secured a first-place award at Ironman California, earning the only qualifying slot in his M18-24 age group for the Ironman World Championship next year in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Finishing in a time of 9:04:44, Cortney told us, “It was a tightly contested race down the stretch and when it got to crunch time, I really leaned on the inspirational people in my life–of which Gary [Riekes] and Kevin [Heller] are at the top.” This accomplishment is a true testament to Cortney's dedication, discipline, and the support he's found within the Riekes community.
But Cortney's journey is not about personal success; it's driven by a deep sense of compassion and the desire to make a meaningful impact beyond the realm of sports. Cortney proudly sported a "Got Goals?" jersey throughout his race, symbolizing the Center's unwavering commitment to helping individuals achieve their aspirations. He's also passionately supporting the #GiveEmHeller cause, a campaign dedicated to raising awareness and funding for ALS research.
Cortney's commitment to this cause has a deeply personal connection–Weintz says, “It was a perfect storm of unfortunate events that uncovered my passion for triathlon." He is dedicating his remarkable achievements to the memories of Gary Riekes, the late founder of the Riekes Center, and Kevin Heller, a beloved family friend and triathlete who tragically passed away from ALS. By participating in the Ironman World Championship, Cortney is not only pushing his limits but also the boundaries of what is possible in raising awareness for a disease that affects the lives of so many.
This inspiring journey exemplifies the Core Values cherished by Riekes: self-supervision, sensitivity to others, and honest communication. It reflects the pursuit of personal excellence, the strength derived from a supportive community, and the capacity to leverage one's achievements to create a positive impact on the world. Cortney Weintz's story is a source of inspiration for us all, reminding us that our goals are within reach and that we can use our achievements to drive positive change.
As Cortney continues his training and preparation for the Ironman World Championship, the Riekes community stands by his side, celebrating his achievements and supporting his efforts to #GiveEmHeller. His journey exemplifies the unwavering spirit of Riekes and its commitment to helping participants achieve their dreams and make the world a better place.