FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
World Record Holder Scott Rigsby Finalist for
Energizer ‘Keep Going’ Hall of Fame
First Double Amputee Ironman One of 10 Worldwide Nominees
June 17, 2008 — If you think running a marathon or completing a endurance triathlon to change the world is unthinkable, don’t tell Scott Rigsby.The Ironman triathlete, also a double amputee, already holds several world records and doesn’t havean end in sight.He just “Keeps Going” and the people at Energizer, like thousands around the world, have been equally inspired by Rigsby.An inspirational person, Rigsby is one of 10 worldwide finalists for the 2008 Energizer “Keep Going” Hall of Fame.
In the past 18 months, Rigsby setmultiple world records for a double amputee and on October 13, 2007, Rigsby became the first double amputee with prosthetics in the world to complete an Ironman distance triathlon at the 140.6-mile Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.His accomplishments earned him the 2007 Physically Challenged Athlete of the Year Award presented by Competitor Magazine and recognition as one the Atlanta Sports Hall of Fame 2008 “Stars of the Year.”
At age 18, Rigsby was thrown from a truck while working a summer job and dragged over 380 feet under a three-ton trailer.After losing his right leg, he endured more than 26 surgeries in 10 years before finally deciding to “free” himself from being a professional patient and remove his left leg. After years of searching for a purpose, a personal encounter opened up a door for Rigsby to go through.
“When I saw the Energizer contest promotion, the “Keep Going” theme seemed to exemplify everything Scott Rigsby represents,” said Scott Johnson, Rigsby’s manager and lead advisor to the Scott Rigsby Foundation .“His accomplishments are truly phenomenal, and are only surpassed by his personal mission to inspire others to overcome their personal challenges.”
Energizer is proud to acknowledge the 10 Energizer®Keep Going® Hall of Fame Finalists for their energetic accomplishments and determination and unstoppable spirit, just like the Energizer Bunny. “We all know people like this – ordinary people with extraordinary stories and unstoppable energy,” said Betsy Laako, director of marketing, Energizer. “We are excited to honor these unsung heroes through the Keep Going Hall of Fame.”
Rigsby was surprised by the Energizer Bunny while speaking to 5th grade and 6th grade students at the RonClarkAcademy in Atlanta.“Knowing how many people lead inspiring lives and how many have overcome so much to keep going, I was honestly surprised I was a finalist,” said Rigsby. “The news was even more enjoyable because I was with students and with Ron Clark, founder of the academy. It’s an honor to be among this select group of finalists. I am humbled and thankful for the recognition.”
Voting started June 12, 2008 and closes on July 25, 2008. The public is invited to vote online at the Energizer Website at voting can be cast each day of the voting period. The winner will be announced in August 2008.
Rigsby continues to compete in endurance triathlons. However, his primary focus is now on building the Scott Rigsby Foundation to inspire more people to take on the unthinkable. He is an accomplished and in-demand speaker who motivates individuals in corporations, wounded veterans, and student groups across the nation. His resounding message is “Doing the Unthinkable.”
About the Scott Rigsby Foundation
To expand his mission worldwide, Rigsby has formed the Scott Rigsby Foundation (501c3) designed to inspire, educate and enable other amputees and all challenged athletes.Through his efforts, Rigsby remains true to his simple prayer, “maybe they all can look at me and say, you know what? Life is tough, but if this guy can make it, then I can make it.”Learn more about Scott and the Scott Rigsby Foundation at
About Energizer
Energizer Holdings, Inc. [NYSE:ENR], headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of primary batteries, battery-powered devices and flashlights.Energizer, a global leader in the dynamic business of providing portable power geared toward the new digital age, offers a full portfolio of products including the Energizer® MAX® premium alkaline brand; Energizer® e2® Lithium® and Energizer® e2® Titanium Technology® performance brands; Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) Rechargeable batteries and chargers.
The Energizer® product line also includes specialty batteries for hearing aids, health and fitness devices, as well as for keyless remote entry systems, watches and other uses.Through its flashlight and lighting products unit, Energizer helps bring consumer insight and innovation to these important household devices.Energizer continues its role as a technology leader as it launches Energizer®Energi To Go®, portable battery-driven power packs for cell phones, and audio devices.
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Editor’s Notes
Media Contact:
Scott Johnson
Scott Rigsby Foundation
p: (770) 634-9004
e:
Web Addresses
Interviews Available
Scott Rigsby, Ironman Triathlete and Energizer ‘Keep Going’ Hall of Fame Finalist