In a recent news conference held at Thunder Valley Casino Resort, TC Martin founder of the Sacramento Sports Hall of Fame announced the first class of inductees into the Sacramento Sports Hall of Fame.
Voting took place between November 20 and December 20, where Sacramento area sports fans were able to cast their votes online for their favorite sports legend.
Fans were allowed to vote for their top five sports figures from a list of 56 nominees that spanned generations of Sacramento superstars. Over 7,300 votes were cast with fans ultimately selecting the inductees.
The top five vote getters will be enshrined and honored on February 2, 2013 at the First Annual Sacramento Sports Hall of Fame Celebration to be held at Thunder Valley Casino Resort.
“The fans really embraced this” said founder and Executive Director, TC Martin. “The fans were actively involved in the voting process and showed great support for the concept and their favorite athletes. We have seen a tremendous response from Sacramento sports fans.”
Heading the first induction class of 2013 is current Cincinnati Reds Manager and former Giants skipper, Dusty Baker. “It is an honor and privilege to be selected” said Baker, who was on hand for the press conference. "I’m honored to be from Sacramento and this shows everyone around the country what great talent we have here.”
Also selected were former Elk Grove and NBA star Bill Cartwright, fellow NBA all-star and current Sacramento Mayor, Kevin Johnson, boxing legend Tony “Tiger” Lopez, and Olympic medalist Summer Sanders.
“This is truly an honor and I sincerely appreciate the recognition” said Cartwright. “To be part of this group with these tremendous athletes is terrific.”
Also on hand at the press conference was local boxing legend Tony “Tiger” Lopez, who has won three world titles. “It’s a big honor” said Lopez. “For people to show the appreciation of all the hard work it’s very special to be honored in my hometown.”
Four of the five inductees will be present to accept their induction at the Sacramento Sports Hall of Fame Celebration event on February 2nd at Thunder Valley Casino Resort. Cartwright will not be in attendance since he just accepted a head coaching jon in Japan. Fans will get and up close and personal look at these Sacramento legends. Tickets are now on sale at Thunder Valley or at ticketmaster.com. VIP ticket packages are available which include a meet and greet with the inductees.
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