COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- The induction ceremony for the inaugural class of the USA Triathlon Hall of Fame became a history lesson for the 160 race directors, USAT staff, friends and family who came out to honor the five inductees.
The five Hall of Famers shared stories, jokes, and their appreciation during an emotional three-hour ceremony at the Broadmoor Resort in Colorado Springs, Colo., on Saturday, Jan. 17.
Pictured at right is the inaugural Hall of Fame class. (L to R) Dennis Flannery (husband of the late Judy Flannery), Sheila Taormina, Verne Scott, Karen Smyers, and Jon Gray Noll.
"This is a very thrilling night for all of us but it's bittersweet because we wish Judy were here to enjoy it. But as Erin said in her remarks, you can visualize what it would have been like for Judy, and all of us felt that we were representing her. We're very happy to do that. It was nice that not only could Judy's children be here, but the four grandchildren, and I'm sure this will be very meaningful to them as well."
-- Dennis Flannery, husband of the late Judy Flannery, an inductee who was a multiple age group national and world champion who was instrumental in getting women involved in the sport during the 80s and 90s
"This is a tremendous honor and I really appreciate everything USA Triathlon has done. Tonight is very special for me, my family and the other inductees with tremendous awards and good camaraderie. If it gets any better than this, I don't know where it's going to be."
--Jon Gray Noll, Hall of Fame contributor inductee who was involved in the creation of USA Triathlon in the early 80s and served in a variety of leadership roles with the organization
More details will be available soon. Find out more about the inaugural Hall of Fame class.
About USA Triathlon
USA Triathlon is proud to serve as the national governing body for triathlon - the fastest growing sport in the U.S. - as well as duathlon, aquathlon and winter triathlon in the United States. USAT sanctions 2,500 races and connects with more than 115,000 members each year, making it the largest multisport organization in the world. In addition to its work with athletes, coaches, and race directors on the grassroots level, USAT provides leadership and support to elite athletes competing at international events, including World Championships, Pan American Games, and the Olympic Games.
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Website: http://www.usatriathlon.org