THE FIG IN MOURNING
Frank Bare (USA)
(13.09.1930 25.02.2011)
USA Gymnastics
FRANK BARE PASSED AWAY
It is with great sadness, that we have learned of the passing of Frank Bare (USA),
the first Executive Director for the U.S. Gymnastics Federation and FIG Honorary
Member since 1980.
Frank Bare died on February 25, 2011 of pneumonia at the age of 80. Following a
decorated collegiate gymnastics career at the University of Illinois that included a
national NCAA Pommel Horse title, Bare went on to become one of the most
influential men in gymnastics in the United States.
When the U.S. Gymnastics Federation was founded in 1963, Bare, a former
athlete, coach and judge, guided the fledgling organisation through the process of
becoming the USA's national governing body for gymnastics and separating the
sport from the Amateur Athletic Union. In just seven years, Bare's efforts paid off
when the USGF was recognised by the International Gymnastics Federation in
1970.
Bare served as the USGF's Executive Director until 1980. He was a member of
the FIG's Executive Committee from 1972-76 and served as an FIG Vice
President from 1976-80.
Bare is survived by his son, Frank Bare, Jr.; two daughters, Cydney and Becky;
and his wife, Linda.
(source: USA Gymnastics)
On behalf of Federation authorities and the international gymnastics community
as a whole, the FIG offers its most sincere condolences to the family and friends
of Frank Bare, as well as to USA Gymnastics
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