Saugeen Shores Hall of Fame recognized four recipients on Thursday, May 9th for their achievements in the world of sports.
From the presentations by coaches and those who had worked with the four recipients, there was a common thread – each recipient had achieved goals through hard work, focus, dedication, commitment and talent.
Each of the recipients is not only recognized on a local level but each has achieved national and international recognition with awards, medals and acclamations.
The awards ceremony took place in Rotary Hall at the Saugeen Shores Plex to a sold-out audience.
For recipient Randy Millar, it was a “strange happening”. Millar a renown coach primarily in the area of Olympic calibre throwing, had also been a colleague teacher of recipient Shelley Bellamy, had coached recipient Becky Smith-Hull and had taught recipient Kelly Gribbons. “It’s quite strange how we are all connected,” said Millar.
Chair of the Selection and Organizing Committee for the Hall of Fame, Rob Dunlop, said, “The recipients are four ordinary individuals who have done extraordinary things.
Mayor Luke Charbonneau paid tribute to the inductees saying that the Hall of Fame is inspiring. “It’s important because we have so many inspiring people in this community who have aspired to make it a better place in which to live. I cannot think of four more deserving people for induction.”
The event is co-sponsored by the Port Elgin Rotary and Southampton Rotary. Port Elgin Rotary President Dan Murawsky said that recognition of the four recipients was well-deserved. He also explained that, “The funds raised at this event send kids to Camp Presqu’ile through Rotary.” Southampton Rotarian Rob Hughes said that his club was also “very proud to partner with Port Elgin Rotary in the Hall of Fame.”
While each recipient gave a speech thanking their former teachers, coaches and families, another thread was common … their humility. Each attributed their life path to others who had helped them along the way.
Of the four recipients, three accredited Earl and Geordie Farrell, co-founders of the Saugeen Track and Field Club (STFC) for mentoring them. Kelly Gribbons, Becky Smith-Hull and Randy Millar are all long-time alumni of the Club.
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Recipient Randy Millar, a teacher for more than 30 years, said that physical education is extremely important. “We will fight until we cannot fight anymore for physical education. Athletics teach respect as athletes are a big family. Olympians help those who are beginning and coaches do the same. Our country and system will be in good hands through our young people.”
