Helio Castroneves is among nine athletes who will be honored as sports legends Sept. 22 at the 23rd Great Sports Legends Dinner in New York, which benefits the Buoniconti Fund to Cure Paralysis.
“It’s a tremendous honor to be included as an honoree at this year’s Annual Great Sports Legends Dinner,” the two-time Indianapolis 500 winner said. “I really feel honored to be in that category and know how many incredible athletes have been in that position. I feel blessed to be one of those as well.”
More than $40 million has been raised for the Buoniconti Fund—a nonprofit organization that serves as the national fundraising arm of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, the world’s largest, most comprehensive spinal cord injury research center.
“Each year we are honored by the presence of the most elite athletes in sports,” said Nick Buoniconti, founder of The Buoniconti Fund and defensive captain of the undefeated 1972 Miami Dolphins. “This year’s group of honorees represent such a high caliber of sports, we are truly thrilled that they will be joining us for yet another spectacular event.
We have made significant steps this year towards finding a cure for spinal cord injuries. That’s why we keep doing this.”
Athletes and individuals are recognized for their contributions to sports and acknowledged for their commitment to high ethical standards, their community, worthy causes and achievements as positive role models. NBC’s Bob Costas will be the master of ceremonies.
Joining Castroneves on the dais will be:
● Andre Agassi, former world-ranked No. 1 professional tennis player who won eight Grand Slam singles tournaments and an Olympic gold medal in singles.
● Jerry Rice, all-time leader in every major statistical category for wide receivers. He was selected to the Pro Bowl 13 times and named All-Pro 10 times in his 20 NFL seasons.
● Scottie Pippen, seven-time NBA All-Star who was integral in leading the Chicago Bulls, together with Michael Jordan, to six NBA championships.
● Joe Gibbs, Pro Football Hall of Fame coach and NASCAR Championship team owner.
● Rich “Goose” Gossage, former New York Yankees pitcher who was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in July 2008.
● Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, World Boxing Association lightweight champion for two years in the 1980s.
● Angelo Dundee, boxing cornerman who has worked with 15 world boxing champions, including Muhammad Ali, Sugar Ray Leonard, George Foreman and Carmen Basilio.
● Gabrielle Reece, professional volleyball player.
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