The Forgotten Race was the first one hour show I ever hosted on ESPN. I also co-produced this show alongside a few of the best producers, editors, shooters, and racing experts in the world. I grew up attending The Indianapolis 500 and to drive by The Motor Speedway to get downtown was a standard route. But it wasn’t until working on this show, that I learned of the deep heritage of African Americans in auto racing. I admire how the public came together during challenging times to support a movement that several opposing groups tried desperately to stop. I’ll be beyond happy when racism is forever in the rear view mirror.
Tamika Catchings achieved the first ever recorded quintuple-double at Duncanville High School in Texas with 25 points, 18 rebounds, 11 assists, 10 steals and 10 blocks in 1997. She went on to become an important piece of Indiana history and pride. She’s a perennial WNBA All-Star, WNBA MVP, 5x Defensive Player of the Year, WNBA Champion & Finals MVP. Tamika can outwork anyone on the floor and she’s beautifully low maintenance.
There are many more accolades piling up with each season, but I want you to know the Tamika, I know. If there were lines on the stat sheet reserved for character, discipline, heart, and generosity, Tamika would deserve every trophy designed. I had the honor of hosting the awards banquet for Tamika’s Catch the Stars Foundation. She genuinely cares for the children who are part of the Catch the Stars family and she celebrates each success. Tamika has always encouraged and supported me, leaving voicemails and text messages to lift me up. She is one of those rare people in the sports world who are exactly who they claim to be. I love calling Tamika my sister.
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