As we all know, the swimming family is small and when one of us is in trouble, we all come together. Now is that time, but first a little background. ISHOF inducted Gary Hall Sr. in 1981, a legend in the swimming world, who swam for Doc at IU, along side Mark Spitz and the other great ones from that era. Gary Jr. was at his Dad’s induction, so he learned about ISHOF and the swimming greats early on. (see photo below) And we at ISHOF have known Gary Jr. and the Hall family for as far back as we can remember. Then Gary Jr. had his own stellar career, and we inducted him in 2013. Again, the Hall family showed up, this time, to celebrate Gary Jr.’s induction. But now, Gary Jr. needs our help, please read the post below from The Race Club and please help if you are able.
Story Shared from The Race Club……
Gary Jr. lost his home and his livelihood in the devastating Palisades Fire on January 7th. Gary saw flames out his window while he was at home before collecting his dog, Puddles, his insulin, a painting of his grandfather, and a religious wooden piece and drove towards the ocean as quickly as possible. He was forced to leave behind everything else he owned, such as irreplaceable family heirlooms, photos, and more. He has also most likely lost his ten Olympic medals, but nothing can take away his spirit that won those medals. Gary was renting a home located right in the middle of the Palisades Fire which had a pool where he taught swim lessons to children through his business, Sea Monkeys Swimming. Gary Jr. and Puddles were able to get a hotel last night and they drove to stay with family in San Diego today, Wednesday Jan 8. If Gary Jr. has impacted your life in a positive way somehow over the years, please consider supporting him to restart his life. The funds raised will be used to buy clothes and necessities. Gary’s family is supporting him as best we can and we turn to our strong swimming and friends community for additional help. Thank you! We will update as we find out more.
LINK TO GO FUND ME: