Gil Hatton - Inducted 2003

If legends are invtented, the Gil Hatton pretty much wrote the book on his own legend. His fiery personality and winning smile were a hit in the first day of the Velodrome. “The Bear”, as he was called, later turned professional and began to concentrate on the Keirin. He found his niche and dominated in this unique event, where he became the first North American ever invited to compete on the Japanese Keirin circuit. He continued his success off the track, helping to coach youngsters, including three-time world champion Marty Nothstein. He has gone in and out of retirement as a racer the past several years while continuing to coach the stars of tomorrow.