The Deontay Wilder visit
Thursday, March 26th was indeed a memorable day in Columbus, Mississippi. Many students, coaches, teachers and administrators were able to meet and hear from one of the most gracious, decent and accommodating people in the world of sport. That was Deontay Wilder, the undefeated Heavyweight Champion of the World. To repeat the words of Dispatch reporter Andrew Hazzard, this was indeed a “knockout” performance.
The initial aim of the Deontay Wilder celebration committee was to provide a unique and meaningful opportunity for the student athletes and coaches in a multi-county area. We believe that the purpose was achieved.
The idea for this wonderful event originated with Rufus Ward. The initial contact person between our committee and the Champ and his trainer was Oliver Miller. Many meetings were held to organize and plan this successful event.
The members of the committee were: Oliver Miller, Rufus Ward, Robert Smith, Joey Bragg, Derek Rogers, Philip Hickman, Craig Shannon, Mona Vance Ali, Lori Frady, Greg Andrews, Stephen Jones, Andy Johnson, Glenn Lautzenhiser.
After we began organizing this event, two totally unexpected things happened. The first one was learning Shannon Gray, the boxer Deontay fought in his first verified professional fight, agreed to come to Columbus and be a part of the celebration. Mr. Gray has a compelling story in his own right. At one time he was a homeless man living under a bridge. He had a serious battle with substance abuse but now manages a facility that helps people battle this horrible addiction. As a motivational speaker, he speaks to youngsters as well as adults to encourage them to make good decisions and wise choices.
The second thing which occurred unexpectedly was receiving a telephone call two days before the event advising us that ESPN was sending in a crew to cover the celebration. They are putting together a documentary on Deontay, and the program at Columbus Middle School will be some portion of the program which will be airing on ESPN later this year.
Nothing of this magnitude could have been accomplished without the support of the sponsors. Our sponsors were: Billups-Garth Foundation, Columbus-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce, WCBI-TV, Columbus Municipal School District, Bright Smiles Dental Clinic/Dr. Dustin Smith, Greg Andrews, Lisa Younger Neese, Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The committee would like to give a very big shout out to The Commercial Dispatch for their support and coverage of the Deontay Wilder Day in Columbus. Thanks to you many people know this heartwarming story.
Glenn Lautzenhiser
Columbus
On behalf of the Deontay Wilder Celebration Committee
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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