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News
 SPORTING STARS CEMENT THEIR PLACE IN HALL OF FAME
THE Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame officially welcomed its newest inductees this evening - champion triathlete, Miles Stewart, and 'Invincible' cricketer, Sam Loxton.
In the third induction ceremony to take place since the Hall opened in January 1999, Stewart was formally inducted into the Hall as a homegrown sporting star, while Loxton was installed as a Sporting Legend.
Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame patron, Gary Baildon, presented Stewart and Loxton with their plaques in front of family and over 60 guests from Gold Coast sporting, business and political arenas.
Stewart became the 34th athlete to be inducted and was honoured as one of the most successful triathletes the world has ever seen.
"This is certainly a memorable night for me," said Stewart.
"I look forward to being able to come back to the Hall and share this with my family in the years to come.
"I am incredibly honoured to now be in the company of so many people I admire," he said.
His career spanned 19 years, during which time he became the youngest triathlete ever to be World Champion and continues to hold the fastest triathlon time in the world.
Loxton said he was elated to be honoured for his dedication to sport and the Gold Coast community.
"I'm very proud, and doubly honoured by the fact there are so many people here," said the modest cricketing great.
"I was privileged to be a member of such a wonderful cricket team, and to be one of six that remain," he said.
Loxton enjoyed an outstanding cricket career spanning 1946 to 1958, making his test debut for Australia as part of Bradman's legendary team - The Invincibles.
After playing his last test match in 1951, he went on to serve as a Liberal Member of Parliament for a quarter of a century and was an Australian Test selector between 1970 and 1981.
Retiring on the Gold Coast, Loxton umpired local Gold Coast cricket competitions during the 1990's and remains a mentor to hundreds of up and coming young players.
His plaque now sits alongside that of rugby league legend, Peter Gallagher, on the Hall's Wall of Sporting Legends.
According to Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame Chair, Daphne Pirie, the night was special for all involved.
"We're delighted to be able to honour both Miles and Sam for their achievements and all the wonderful sporting memories they have given us," Mrs Pirie said.
"They are an inspiration to so many and have contributed so much to Gold Coast sport," she said.
The Gold Coast Sporting Hall of Fame is situated on Mick Veivers Way, Owen Park, 201 Queen Street, Southport or can be visited online at www.goldcoastsport.com.au.
ENDS.
For further information please contact:
Angela McGregor
HicksonMedia
(07) 5591 2556
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