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Ali Still Has Power To Charm Legendary boxer receives Major Taylor Award, standing ovation at convention center. By Jeff Rabjohns [log in to unmask] October 4, 2003 As a boxer, Muhammad Ali grabbed fans' attention with both his punches and proud prognostications. On Friday, he showed he can do it with just his presence. When a green curtain parted at center stage and Ali emerged toward the podium at the Indiana Convention Center's Sagamore Ballroom to receive the prestigious Major Taylor Award, a crowd of approximately 1,000 erupted with a standing ovation. Even the waiters clearing tables stopped and applauded. "How can you not think it's special when you honor Ali, the icon?" Black Coaches Association executive director Floyd Keith said. Ali was presented with the award during Friday's Indianapolis Colts Classic Coaches Luncheon, held in conjunction with weekend Circle City Classic festivities. Ali, 61, has been slowed for several years by Parkinson's disease. But he stood at the podium next to his wife, Lonnie, and received the award, named for the Indiana native who became the first black world cycling champion in 1899 and defied racial stereotypes along the way. "Major Taylor lived his life with the idea of excellence, and that's one of the things that Muhammad stands for," Lonnie Ali said. "We are quite honored to be here today to accept this award." Ali spoke briefly, but the battle he's fighting with Parkinson's made his remarks difficult to understand. He did draw a laugh when he mentioned a "comeback," paused, then grinned. Prior to the luncheon, Ali was playful backstage. He worked on a magic trick with a scarf and posed for photographers, smiling and holding his fists up. "Ali has perhaps raised more money for American charities than any other living human," Bank One chairman Larry O'Connor said in presenting the award, keeping the focus on Ali's humanitarian efforts rather than his legendary boxing career. The Rev. Charles Williams, founder of the Circle City Classic and president of Indiana Black Expo, also received the Major Taylor Award. Call Star reporter Jeff Rabjohns at 1-317-444-6183 SOURCE: The Indianapolis Star, IN http://www.indystar.com/print/articles/3/080495-3593-036.html * * * ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn