[GaryVoshol]

This is a great story, and I'm sure it is not unique. What is different about this story is that the hard work had an observable outcome.

I would imagine there are dozens, even hundreds, of such stories that are behind the scenes in the teams we consider to be powerhouses. Yes, some teams have an advantage of a great sponsor. And let's face it, there are only so many JVN's, Bakers, Copiolis and Karthiks in this world, not enough to mentor every team. But beyond those powerhouse sponsors and mentors, there must be many unsung dedicated student heroes like Ricky.

The powerhouse teams don't get there just because of the advantages they start with. They get there because of all the hard work and dedication of every member on their team, even when that hard work seems pointless and may not get recognized. They don't get there from luck; all that hard work creates the potential for lucky situations that the team can exploit when the unlucky happens.

Congrats to 51, and kudos to Ricky for being there, ready and prepared to step up when needed.