Whiz Kid: Cranbrook Student's Success Sails Beyond Local Shores

Each week, Bloomfield Patch features students doing amazing things. This week's Whiz Kid is a competitive sailor that was part of the team that recently won the 2012 Leukemia Cup in Annapolis, Md.

Will Libcke

School:

Age: 16

Hometown: West Bloomfield

Achievement: Libcke and three other crew members aboard the Rum Puppy led the J-105 fleet race from the start. He joined sailors from across America in the thrilling event and raised more than $5,700 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of America. If he gets to $8,500, Libcke will qualify for a race in December in New Orleans.

Key to Awesomeness: Libcke has been around boats all his life and sailed on his own for nearly a decade, logging more than 3,500 nautical miles at sea. He sails nearly every Wednesday and Saturday during the summer, and has a deep desire to attend the U.S. Naval Academy for its Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering program and off-shore sailing team.

"At an early age, I discovered that I wanted to serve my country, and the best way for me to serve would be at sea with the Navy," he explained. "I figured that I can fulfill my dream of becoming a naval officer and serving my country, participate in an engaging major that I have interest in, and pursue my passion for sailing with one of the best college sailing programs in the world."

What's Next?: Libcke said he will continue to raise funds and train for the next race. Tax-deductible donations to the Rum Puppy/Team Trident are accepted anytime at this Website.

"It was exciting for me to win a race on the water, and I hope I can help others with their race against cancer," he said. "Just because the regatta is over doesn’t mean that the plight of cancer patients is over."

Do you know our next Whiz Kid?

Bloomfield Patch welcomes suggestions for students, youth groups and even sports teams who wow us with their accomplishments. We want to hear about amazing children and teens and select one each week as Whiz Kid. Submit your nomination in our comment box below or email the information to editor Art.Aisner@patch.com. Please include all these details:

• Nominator's name
• Whiz Kid's name and age
• Whiz Kid's school
• Whiz Kid's accomplishment
• What makes him or her successful