Last weekend Chattanooga’s own Venus Lacy, Brainerd High School basketball phenom, Louisiana Tech Alumni and 1996 Olympic gold medalist, was inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. My mother and I were deeply honored to be able to join her for this spectacular four-day experience. It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience.
Venus has overcome so many obstacles, starting with being in leg braces and being told she would never run like the other kids. Yes, she was bullied by the other children. Once they came off, about 4th grade, she has been running and overcoming obstacles ever since.
We started getting her ready a week before by getting her a makeover at Elea Blake Cosmetic Studio on Chestnut Street, a last minute visit to her amazing dentist Dr. Frank Trundle Jr to make sure that smile of hers sparkled (it did) and then to Raelyn’s Closet, a new childrens clothing boutique on Ashland Terrace, to make sure her beautiful children looked amazing.
Being able to watch her this weekend as she began to realize the large impact she has made in so many lives was amazing to say the least. No matter where we stopped between here and Natchitoches, La., she was recognized. Everyone knew who Venus Lacy is. She was the only female inductee this weekend and the tallest.
We are so very proud of her. You won’t be able to forget about her as she has some great plans in the making. Check out the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame website and Facebook page for pictures and more details.
Marian Ingram