There will be a dynamic duo of sports legends in Williamsburg on Thursday, May 12th when Diana Nyad is honored with the 2011 Action Maverick Award. To add to the excitement, tennis legend Billie Jean King will present her with the award. The Billie Jean King who won 12 Grand Slam singles titles, 16 Grand Slam women's doubles titles, and 11 Grand Slam mixed doubles titles. She has also been a tireless and effective advocate against sexism in sports and society and is, arguably, best known for "The Battle of the Sexes in 1973, in which she defeated Bobby Riggs. Hosting the evening with her customary sass and wit will be satirist Kate Clinton. It all takes place in at SLAM, Elizabeth Streb and her company's enormous and lively performance space on Thursday, May 12th at 7pm. The company will offer some sneak peeks of their exciting new work. The evening is a benefit for STREB and details can be found at www.streb.org. or by calling 718 384 6491.
Diana Nyad has more then earned her Action Maverick Award. For ten years (1969-1979), she was the greatest long distance swimmer in the world. In 1978, she attempted to swim 100 miles from Cuba to Florida. After being in the water for 41 plus hours, she fell short of her goal due to strong currents and bad weather. In 1979 she stroked the longest swim in history, making the 102.5 mile journey from Bimini (in the Bahamas) to Florida. She also broke numerous world records, including what had been a 50 year mark for circling Manhattan, setting a new time of 7 hours, 57 minutes.
Until a year ago, Diana hadn't swum a stroke for 31 years. This summer at the age of 61, she is going to stroke her way from Havana to the Florida coast without a shark tank. Hers is a story of grace, resilience, sheer determination and courage.
The Action Maverick Award was created in 2006 by our own local action heroes Elizabeth Streb and STREB to honor those brave enough to challenge gravity through transgressive action. Past recipients have included Philippe Petit, Cheryl Stearns, Hugh Herr and Trisha Brown.
STREB Action Maverick Award to Diana Nyad
Presented by Billie Jean King
Thursday, May 12th at 7pm
At S.L.A.M, 51 North First Street, Williamsburg Brooklyn
Tickets starting at $350, for reservations and information: 718 384 6491
www.streb.org
