1997 Inaugural Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

June 27, 1997, marked the inaugural Hall of Fame Induction Ceremonies in Oklahoma City, OK (USA). Ten years after Founder Glenn Sundy began his dream of preserving gymnastic history, 9 indivudals were honored during this memorable evening at the Medallion Hotel. Honorees represented the 1924 Olympics – Leon Stukelj – to the 1984 Olympics – Mary Lou Retton. Inductees: Nadia Comaneci (Romania), Bart Conner (USA), Jack Gunthard (Switzerland), Bela Karolyi (Romania-US), Mary Lou Retton (USA), Olga Korbut (Belarus) and Leon Stukelj (Slovenia). The ninth inductee, Arthur Gander (Switzerland), passed away on March 30, 1981. ABC-TV sports commentator Chris Schenkel donated his time and talent as Master of Ceremony. Article by Dwight Normile, "A Night to Remember" appears in the International GYMNAST (August/ September 1997). Photos courtesy of Linda Bare. Portraits by artist, Sam Bailie, Jr.

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