Cape district staff recognized for remarkable athletic achievements

The Cape Henlopen School District recognized three staff members whose recent outstanding athletic accomplishments showcase extraordinary perseverance, discipline and personal excellence.

From powerlifting platforms to mountain trails to grueling triathlons, these educators and professionals exemplify grit and determination, qualities they model daily for Cape students.

Dr. Kimberly Corbidge, Lewes Elementary principal, delivered an impressive powerlifting performance during a meet at GaglioneStrength in Milton, earning the title of Best Female Lifter Overall in the Raw Classic Masters division. Competing in just her third meet since beginning her powerlifting journey, Corbidge posted exceptional lifts for squat, 182 pounds; bench press, 105 pounds; and deadlift, 237 pounds.

“I started powerlifting simply wanting to get stronger, but it’s given me confidence, community and goals that excite me,” said  Corbidge. “Hitting the platform reminds me that progress is powerful, no matter your age or experience.”

Corbidge trains with coach Chris Parker at Custom Fit 360 in Lewes. Her growing success in competition reflects her commitment to strength, consistency and pushing personal boundaries. “Every time I step up to the bar, I’m reminded that the only limits that matter are the ones we choose to break. It’s my hope that our students see what’s possible when you stay consistent and believe in your own strength,” she said.

Hadley Rhue, a Sussex Consortium teacher at Love Creek Elementary, completed two Ironman 70.3 races this year, with the first in Cambridge, Md., followed by a second just three months later in Long Island, N.Y.

Rhue, who discovered her passion for triathlons as a member of the University of Delaware Triathlon Club, said she is motivated by discipline, gratitude and a drive to challenge herself. “I love to do hard things and make myself proud,” she said. “I work out because I can and I am able, not because I should.” Her cross-training schedule includes a mix of weightlifting, cycling, swimming, yoga  and varied running workouts. Rhue is now preparing for her second full marathon, with hopes of completing her first full Ironman in 2026. She carries a powerful message for young girls everywhere. “I take pride in being a strong woman, and I want to be an inspiration,” Rhue said. “Reminding myself that I am able, and not taking that for granted, is so important.”

Stephanie Lewis, a Milton Elementary kindergarten teacher, completed her first 50-miler (technically 52.44 miles) at the Wild Goose Trail Festival in the rugged New Jersey Highlands of Wawayanda State Park. With a time of 10 hours and 10 minutes, Lewis not only conquered the challenging multi-loop course of rocky single-track and hard-packed trails, but also finished as first female overall.

Lewes said the experience reinforced the importance of consistency, support, and taking on goals that both challenge and inspire. “We should all try to have an annual, audacious goal that builds grit, confidence and momentum,” Lewis said. “No matter your role or stage of life, you can push yourself to do things that scare you. It’s how we grow.”
 
Lewis is already looking ahead, working with a running coach to pursue a Boston Marathon qualifying time and possibly tackling a 100-miler in the future.

Corbidge, Lewis and Rhue each embody the district’s commitment to perseverance and lifelong growth. Their achievements remind students and colleagues alike that setting big goals and working relentlessly toward them can lead to extraordinary results.
 
The Cape Henlopen School District congratulates these three remarkable staff members and celebrates the example they set for the entire community.