September 20, 2023, marks a significant milestone for North Bay as it celebrates the “Best of 100” — a tribute to the top athletes, builders, and teams that have shaped the city’s rich sports history. This year is particularly special, as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of the City of North Bay, making the celebration even more poignant.
At the heart of this initiative is the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame, which has curated a list of 100 distinguished individuals and teams that encapsulate the spirit and excellence of North Bay’s athletic community. This year’s event expands upon a similar recognition effort held during the city’s 75-year celebration in 2000. The 2000 event honored 10 male and female athletes, 20 builders, and 10 teams. Building from that foundation, the current celebration includes an additional 15 athletes, 20 builders, and 10 teams, resulting in a comprehensive showcase of North Bay’s sporting legacy.
### The Challenge of Recognition
The process of contacting 110 potential honorees has been a challenging endeavor for the organizing committee. Many individuals from the original list are no longer living, and those still active are often scattered across Canada and the USA. Despite these obstacles, committee chair Dave Saad expressed optimism about their outreach efforts: “Of the 110 potential representatives, we have commitments from just under 90 individuals or their representatives.” This turnout speaks volumes about the impact these athletes and builders have had on their community.
One recurring sentiment expressed by both committee members and honorees alike is the surprise and pleasure that many feel upon being remembered by their hometown. “The common theme that committee member Larry Tougas and I have received is how pleased and surprised people are that they are still remembered by their home town,” Saad noted. This sentiment resonates deeply, revealing an intrinsic connection between athletes and their community that goes beyond victories and awards.
### A Legacy of Excellence
The list of honorees reflects a “who’s who” of sporting excellence with deep-rooted connections to North Bay. Among the athletes recognized are over 17 Olympians, including the renowned Olmsted sisters, Kate Pace-Lindsey, Dan Howe, Dave Rees, Ali Herst-Jackson, Steve Omischl, and Marc Dunn. These names signify not only individual achievement but also the collective pride of a community that has produced elite-level talent.
Additionally, the builders’ category highlights the behind-the-scenes contributors who have played vital roles in fostering North Bay’s sporting culture. Honorees like Peter Randle, Father Mike Cundari, and Sharon Fung exemplify the dedication required to sustain a vibrant sports environment. Their contributions have laid the groundwork for current and future athletes to excel.
The teams that will be honored represent a history of collaboration and excellence in North Bay sports. From the 1929 Rinkey Dinks Softball team to more contemporary groups like the Pinehill Coffee Shop Midgets, these teams have contributed to the city’s sporting identity, making their mark in both local and national arenas.
### The Celebration Event
The culmination of these efforts will take place at the Best Western on September 20 during a noon-hour luncheon. Each honoree will receive a plaque acknowledging their individual accomplishments, alongside a short biographical presentation that aims to spotlight the diversity and richness of North Bay’s sports history. Saad emphasized the importance of this event not just in terms of recognition, but as a celebration of community pride. “What this exercise has done is remind us of how rich our sport history is. Through this event, we are saying to those who will be in attendance, we are proud of what you have accomplished.”
### Looking Ahead
As North Bay prepares for this monumental event, it serves as a reminder of the vital role sports play in community identity. Celebrating these athletes, builders, and teams is an acknowledgment of their contributions to the city, which continue to inspire future generations. The “Best of 100” initiative reinforces the notion that sports transcend individual achievements; they create legacies that pave the way for collective success and community pride.
In closing, the recognition of these sports figures offers more than nostalgia; it serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes and builders in North Bay. It underscores the importance of community support in achieving personal and collective greatness. As we celebrate the best of what North Bay has offered over the past century, let it be a call to remember the heroes of our past while inspiring the stars of our future. The upcoming celebration invites everyone to join in, relive memories, and honor those who have made North Bay a beacon of athletic excellence.
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