Stories by J.R. De Groote

Mountain West split into good and bad

Welcome to the mild, mild West division of the Mountain West Conference, where third and even fourth chances at a title abound, and it isn’t over until the last blocked kick, fumble or interception.

Rivers prepares for final scheduled start in Oakland

OAKLAND, Calif. — From his first career start in 2006 to some riveting comebacks and crushing defeats, Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers has had plenty of memorable experiences playing against the Raiders at the Oakland Coliseum.

Surfing: NSSA contest brings out tough competition

The sights and sounds at Banyans last Saturday for the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) contest felt very familiar, cars lining both sides of Alii Drive, reggae music blaring from the beach side speakers, Tony Sargis on the mic with the heat results, and groms in brightly colored rash guards charging the waves.

Wilson throws 5 TDs, Seahawks outlast Bucs 40-34 in OT

SEATTLE — The New England Patriots’ unbeaten season crashed to an end under the weight of their own mistakes and inability to contain Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, who ripped apart the NFL’s stingiest defense with his arm and legs in a 37-20 victory Sunday night.

Nationals fans rejoice in red as hometown heroes are honored

WASHINGTON — The song “Baby Shark” blared over loudspeakers and a wave of red washed across this politically blue capital Saturday as Nationals fans lined the city’s version of the Canyon of Heroes to rejoice in Washington’s first World Series victory since 1924.

Runnin’ With Rani: Remembering Peter the Great

Whether he was swimming with his Kona Aquatic teammates, going for a bike ride with the Coffee Talk Riders, or running toward the finish line in a Peaman Biathlon, Team Mango Race or local running event, Peter Bresciani always had a smile on his face.