May 4, 2014 – Glendale Heights, Illinois
For 10 years now, The National Fitness Hall of Fame has held its induction ceremony, recognizing and honoring the best in fitness. This year was truly something special as twenty-five superstar inductees, current & past, were present to participate in the weekend activities. Billed as “The Greatest Gathering of Fitness Professionals Ever,” the event lived up to just that! Guests were treated to a VIP Meet & Greet reception and a “Super Seminar” (100 Years of Fitness) and at the Sunday evening induction ceremony everyone got the chance to mingle with other fitness professionals and fitness enthusiasts alike. In a letter, Illinois Governor Quinn greeted the audience saying, “I want to commend the National Fitness Hall of Fame for encouraging healthy lifestyles and physical fitness, which are important for the strength and wellbeing of our state and nation and congratulate all of this year’s inductees.”
The ceremony has taken place at the beautiful Glendale Lakes Golf Club in Glendale Heights, Illinois for three straight years. “The facility, food and staff are all top-notch,” said John Figarelli, founder of the National Fitness Hall of Fame (and an Addison Trail graduate ’80). “We have been coming here since 2009 they always treat us well.” Addison’s own “Don of Sports,” Don Figarelli conducted the Red-Carpet interviews looking ever dapper in his traditional black tux. The house was packed as the crowd participated in an abundance of activities which included glamour shots, silent auctions, merriment and more.
The eclectic Class of 2014 included Leslie Sansone (Walk-at-Home, Inc), Kathie & Peter Davis (co-founders of IDEA Health & Fitness Association), Beth Kuntzleman (President of Fitness Finders) and living legend, Bobby “Sugar” Hinds (Inventor and founder of LIFELINE Fitness). The Master of Ceremony, 2006 inductee, Tony Little got things started with his “You Can Do It” energy and humor as past inductee presenters; Tamilee Webb, Gilad Janklowicz, Tom Campanaro, Mark Rothstein and Brenda Dykgraaf all had wonderful things to say about the current year inductees. Brenda showed sincere tears of admiration as she introduced the vibrant octogenarian, Bobby, who dazzled and delighted the crowd with wit & humor.
“Special thanks to all the guests and volunteers we have had over the past 10 years,” said Figarelli. “We look forward to seeing you for 10 more!” Of course all of this would not be possible without the support of our terrific sponsors, Total Gym Global, The American Council on Exercise (ACE) and The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). “We thank you all!”
