Norman Borlaug will be recognized for his tremendous contributions to humanity. Borlaug passed away on September 12, 2009.
It is estimated that Borlaug saved over a billion lives through his agricultural production techniques. He is also one of six people to win the Nobel Peace Prize, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal.
Borlaug was born and raised in Cresco, Iowa, placing second at the state wrestling tournament in 1932. He also wrestled at the University of Minnesota, lettering from 1935 through 1937.
A special award recognizing Borlaug’s contributions will be presented to Don Gooder. Gooder, the last living founder of the Iowa Wrestling Hall of Fame in Cresco, will accept on behalf of Cresco.
“(Borlaug) is in a select wrestling group from Cresco,” said Gooder. “His greatest impact to wrestling is his example.”
Russ Smith will be honored for his contributions to wrestling through writing, and for his commitment to advancing the sport within his community. Smith passed away on Feb. 25, 2009.
Smith is best-known for his 47-year career at the Waterloo Courier, including 34 years as the newspaper’s sports editor. He began work for the Courier in 1942, and in 1974 he authored a book on Dan Gable called “The Legend of Dan Gable: The Wrestler.”
As sports editor Smith gave wrestling top billing, providing it front page sports coverage. He also served as the longtime moderator for the local “Sports of Sorts Club,” featuring national and local sports figures.
“Russ did things for wrestling that nobody else was doing at the time,” said Kevin Evans, sports editor at the Courier for 15 years immediately following Smith. “The kind of coverage he gave the state tournament and national tournament was unparalleled.”
The first Russ Smith Community Impact Award will be presented to members of Smith’s family. The award will be given in subsequent years to a person demonstrating exceptional local impact on wrestling.
Schedule of Events April 17
Saturday, April 17: Tolly Thompson Kids Clinic, 11 a.m. This free youth clinic is open to wrestlers ages 5-18. For more information or to sign up, contact Kent Sesker at (319) 233-0745 or kent@wrestlingmuseum.org.
Special awards and inductions into Glen Brand Wrestling Hall of Fame of Iowa, 1 p.m.
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