Bob Bentz’s first taste of distance running was actually discovered by accident. In order to participate in basketball, cross country running was required for conditioning. Bob soon found out that his true strengths were in running cross country and track. To be the best distance runner at Beaver Local was Bob’s goal as a sophomore. His drive to win soon rewrote all levels of Beaver Local and State track history books. He began to dominate the local track scene. In 1971, as a junior, Bob continued to gain local and Statewide notoriety. He placed first in the state cross country AA 2 mile run and 2nd in the state 2 mile run. Going undefeated, winning the state 2 mile run and setting an all-time state record were part of Bob’s accomplishments as a senior. All his determination and hard work paid off as he became Beaver Local’s first high school All-American by placing 3rd in the nation. Bob continued his track and cross country career at the University of Tennessee where he completed his career as a part of the seven member Cross Country Team who were undefeated in four years and were Southeastern Conference Champions and three years were Southeastern Track and Field Champions.
2001 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE!!