The running of the Kentucky Derby has always gotten my attention – long before I even had the opportunity to experience the “Run for the Roses” live and in living color. I will watch the 149th running of the Derby this Saturday via NBC with mixed emotions.

Last week, the Lake Oconee Academy baseball team added two more accomplishments to its historic season, capturing the program’s first-ever region championship and winning its 20th game.

Lake Oconee Academy’s tennis teams recently defeated Christian Heritage to advance to the Georgia High School Association’s (GHSA) Class A Division II quarterfinal round of the state playoffs.

Korbin Hegwood powered Morgan County to an 8-1 win over Dougherty last week in a first-round playoff tilt. The sophomore striker scored three of eight goals, helping the Dogs advance to the second round.

The Gatewood golf team left no stone unturned, capturing the Georgia Independent Athletic Association Class AA championship on its home course at Harbor Club in Greensboro earlier this week.

The Lake Oconee Academy girls’ soccer team started their playoff run Tuesday with a game against Lincoln County. The Lady Titans played the Lady Red Devils earlier in the year and lost 1-0, but got their revenge as they came out on top, 4-0, on Tuesday, advancing to the quarterfinal round of the state playoffs.

Despite a tough week on the diamond, the Gatewood Gators won their second straight region championship last week.

Greene County High School had three students sign letters of intent to continue their athletic careers at the next level on Monday in the school’s auditorium.

“Hero.” Fishing and life have allowed me to meet several people who truly fill this role, but people use this word way too much these days, in my opinion. The signs, the hashtags, whatever. I get it, we all want to honor people. However, I think few understand the meaning of this word.