Blacksburg Resident Wins Gold in Paris Olympics

Montgomery County, VA – Cardinal News reported that Cole Hocker, a track and field athlete, won gold in the 1500 meter run at the Paris Olympics. His powerful finishing kick helped him to beat the two favorites, one from Great Britian and the other from Norway, and break the Olympic record.

Cole Hocker moved to Blacksburg in 2023 to work with Virginia Tech track and field coach Ben Thomas and train in the New River Valley. This move put him on the gold medal stand. He first attempted to win a gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics but came in 6^th place.

Read the full article here.

Watch Cole Hocker’s gold medal run here.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.