Photo submitted by Sandy Sahnow
Billy Sahnow, left, is presented a Lifetime Achievement Award from Robert D. Matney, President of the Virginia Association of USA Boxing Inc.

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Local boxing legend receives Lifetime Achievement Award

  On April 5, almost 200 people including past and present boxing administrators, athletes, coaches, officials, fans, family and friends, attended a celebration held for local boxing legend Billy Sahnow at the Mechanicsville Recreation Center.

  Robert D. Matney, President of the Virginia Association of USA Boxing Inc. presented Sahnow with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his 55 years of service and dedication to the sport of boxing. The awards states; “Not satisfied with being a great amateur and professional boxer he went on to become a renowned trainer of the youth.  His tireless dedication to his duties has been the guiding light to many athletes and is without a doubt the reason that most went on to productive lives as an adult.  All should aspire to be a coach like him, all should seek him out for knowledge and wisdom, and most assuredly, we all thank him for being there for us.  From a grateful Association we thank you.”

  Matney also read from the USA Boxing Master Official Certificate. “William “Billy” K. Sahnow, Sr.  has served the youth of the United States of America with dignity, fairness, and distinction as an Amateur Olympic Style Boxing Official.  Your dedication to the sport over the years as a volunteer is testimony to the outstanding example of a National Master Official.”

  On behalf of the Hanover County Board of Supervisors, Debar B. Coats also honor Sahnow.

  Sahnow added two cherished gifts to his boxing memorabilia collection. Toni McCracken, daughter of Sahnow’s deceased trainer, Carl Hutchins gave him her father’s antique ringside bell used in the 1940’s.  Virginia Artist, Cartoonist, and Illustrator, Phillip McKenney presented a picture to him he drew during the celebration. 

  Sahnow told his story and many individuals offered their testimony about how he had inspired and made a difference in their lives.  This was truly a day of honoring an outstanding and humble individual.