Memphis Mourns Loss of Local Sports Champion

News Summary

Memphis is mourning the passing of Reggie Barnes, a dedicated advocate for local sports. His 30 years at Morgan Keegan shaped his impactful legacy that resonated throughout the city. Influential figures recognized his talent for uniting the community around sports initiatives. As Memphis reflects on this loss, it celebrates the ongoing commitment to local talent and the upcoming National Veterans Golden Age Games, showcasing the city’s vibrant athletic culture and resilience.

Memphis Loses a Champion for Local Sports

Memphis is mourning the loss of Reggie Barnes, who passed away on Monday after a long and impactful career dedicated to promoting sports in the community. Barnes, who spent 30 years as a managing director at Morgan Keegan, is best remembered for his advocacy and active involvement in various sports initiatives across the city. His dedication to Memphis sports extended nearly five decades, making him a beloved figure among athletes and fans alike.

Influential Pursuits Beyond Finance

While Barnes had a successful career in finance, his true passion lay in sports. His remarkable talent for connecting people and fostering collaboration in the sports sector set him apart, a trait recognized by prominent figures such as Archie Manning. This ability to unite individuals around a common cause greatly benefited the Memphis sports community and contributed to the city’s rich sporting culture.

Recognition by Peers

Geoff Calkins, a noted sports columnist who has chronicled Memphis sports for over two decades, highlighted Barnes’ influence on the local community. Calkins, who hosts a popular radio show on 92.9 FM, has received accolades from the Associated Press sports editors as one of the best sports columnists in the nation. His columns often shed light on the individuals who shape Memphis and the spirit of the city, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the legacy Barnes leaves behind.

Support for Young Talent

The impact of community and sports collaboration extends beyond Barnes. Ollie Liddell, the director of bands at Central High School, faced transportation challenges for his jazz band as they prepared for the Essentially Ellington contest at Lincoln Center. In response, the Memphis community stepped forward to provide significant support, demonstrating the city’s commitment to nurturing local talent in various fields.

Celebrating Achievement Among Youth

In other notable news, Eric Daniels, who struggled academically during middle school, is among 2,759 students set to graduate from the University of Memphis on Saturday. His achievement serves as a reminder of the resilience and dedication present among Memphis youth, showcasing that support and perseverance can lead to success.

Memphis Hosts National Veterans Golden Age Games

This year, from May 31 to June 5, Memphis will also host the National Veterans Golden Age Games, a multi-sport competition specifically aimed at older veterans aged 55 and up. Established in 1985 by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, these games encourage the health benefits of sports medicine for veterans, showcasing the enduring spirit of competition and camaraderie.

Details of the Upcoming Event

The Golden Age Games will feature 18 sports competitions and seven exhibition events, providing a platform for veterans to engage in friendly competition. Participants will be categorized into eight age groups and three divisions: ambulatory, visually impaired, and wheelchair. Additionally, two at-home medal events are available for participants in 20K and 5K cycling along with trivia challenges. The event anticipates a significant number of volunteers, with opportunities available for individuals aged five and older to assist in running the event.

Conclusion

The combined efforts of those like Reggie Barnes, Ollie Liddell, and the upcoming National Veterans Golden Age Games illustrate the vibrant athletic culture in Memphis, one that emphasizes community support, resilience, and inclusivity. As the city reflects on the loss of its champions, it also celebrates the ongoing dedication of its residents to fostering sports and strengthening communal ties through athletic endeavors.

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Additional Resources

• Daily Memphian: Memphis Sports Champion
• Local Memphis: National Veterans Golden Age Games
• Audacy: Free Memphis Prostate Screenings
• Commercial Appeal: Memphis Basketball Transfer News
• Go Tigers Go: Henigan Named Top Amateur Athlete
• Wikipedia: Memphis
• Google Search: Memphis sports
• Google Scholar: Memphis sports
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Memphis
• Google News: Memphis sports