TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS ..

is an apt description of this group’s tryout in Memphis for the U. S. Team.  The year is cloudy to me but from the youthful looks of Meckwell, it was a few decades ago (and must have been snapped before the group was eliminated from the event) as you will spot a smiling group of contestants, starting with Norman, Jeff Meckstroth, Bill Root, Richard Pavlicek, Edgar, Eric Rodwell and seated in front was their handsome Captain – Cliff Russell.  

Jeff and Eric look so shy and innocent.  I still think of them as young lads breaking into the big time.  They certainly have made their mark and it is difficult to fathom that they are both now in their mid fifties.   You know what they say about time flying when you’re having fun.   However, I just finished watching their team (Nickell) succumb easily to Fleisher in the Trials Final to determine who will represent our country as USA II in Bali.  The Fleisher team includes a talented and likeable array of dedicated gentlemen (pictured below), including (from left to right) Chris Willenken, Michael Rosenberg, Zia, Captain Marty Fleisher, Chip Martel and Mike Kamil.    They will be joining The Kranyak Team who emerged as USA I (with Gavin Wolpert, and a pair of Kevins – Bathhurst and Dwyer) and an unnamed pair to round out their sextet.  Good luck to all.