COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The Olympus Within Awards – a groundbreaking initiative honoring individuals and athletes who exemplify the indomitable spirit of Olympic and Paralympic values – concluded at the United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum on August 22. This event recognized exceptional individuals who utilized their achievements to drive positive change and inspiration.
The first-ever Olympus Within Awards event brought together approximately 130 esteemed guests, including hall of famers Edwin Moses (track), Mary Lou Retton (gymnastics) and Sarah Will (Para alpine skiing), community leaders, and advocates, to celebrate the remarkable journeys and impactful contributions of the honorees across five categories. The categories and recipients are:
Leadership Award
Recipient: Jim Craig
Jim Craig, renowned Olympic goalie and captain of the legendary Miracle on Ice hockey team was honored with the Leadership Award. Beyond his historic victory in 1980, Craig founded Gold Medal Strategies, a leadership training and team development consulting company. Jim’s unwavering belief in the power of a winning mentality has transformed his life lessons in sports into valuable guidance for leaders across diverse fields.
Arts & Creative Award
Recipient: LeRoy Neiman
The Arts & Creative Award was presented posthumously to LeRoy Neiman, a prolific artist, teacher, and philanthropist. Neiman’s dynamic and vibrant artwork captured the spectacle of athletic achievement and inspired countless individuals with his creative vision. His legacy continues to transcend limitations and inspire generations to reach beyond their boundaries.
Philanthropy & Service Award
Recipient: Bill Hybl
Bill Hybl, a leader with a legacy of service and philanthropy, was recognized with the Philanthropy & Service Award. Through his extensive work with the El Pomar Foundation and the U.S. Commission on Public Diplomacy, Hybl has overcome obstacles and dedicated his life to the betterment of society. His tireless efforts have garnered recognition on local, national, and international levels.
Trailblazer Award
Recipient: Adaptive Spirit
The Trailblazer Award was bestowed upon Adaptive Spirit, a not-for-profit organization that has made an enduring impact in the cable and telecommunications industry. For over 25 years, Adaptive Spirit has united executives and raised substantial funds for U.S. Paralympic alpine, Nordic, and snowboard teams. Their commitment to creating opportunities for those who face challenges exemplifies the spirit of trailblazing.
Impact Award
Recipients: Bruce Byington and Semper Fi & America’s Fund
The Olympus Within Impact Award recognized Bruce Byington for his instrumental role in shaping the transformative Becoming Your Personal Best program at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum. Bruce’s visionary leadership has positively impacted countless lives in Colorado and beyond.
Additionally, Semper Fi & America’s Fund was celebrated for its unwavering dedication to empowering service members. Their collective efforts to effect positive change resonate with the ethos of the award, exemplifying the force of united endeavors.
The Olympus Within Awards underscore the remarkable synergy between athletic achievement, leadership, creativity, service and impact. By celebrating these extraordinary individuals, the awards serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations.
About the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum offers an immersive and universally accessible experience, celebrating the achievements of U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes. With interactive exhibits, innovative displays and a comprehensive artifact collection, the USOPM embodies Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect, as well as Paralympic values of determination, equality, inspiration and courage.
Honoring past legends with the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Hall of Fame and inspiring future generations through engaging activities and events, the USOPM provides a life-changing experience that educates and inspires visitors for years to come.
