Celebrate Excellence in Fitness: Arkansas Fitness Professionals Hall of Fame
In an exciting development for the fitness community, the Arkansas Fitness Professionals Hall of Fame will kick off its mission with a grand awards banquet. Scheduled for 6 p.m. on March 12 at the luxurious Chenal Country Club in Little Rock, this inaugural event will honor ten distinguished fitness professionals as part of the Class of 2025.
Founder and President Riley Hill expressed her vision: “We aim to honor those who are dedicated to improving the fitness of others while breaking down barriers for individuals in Arkansas pursuing healthier lifestyles. The potential for community involvement statewide is limitless, and we’re just getting started.”
Quen Spencer
Quen Spencer, a respected trainer and founder of Tap In University, will serve as the event’s emcee. The evening will also spotlight notable attendees, including Heather Baker, president and publisher of AY Media Group, as a special guest. Former Razorback football player and Arkansas sports icon David Bazzel will deliver the keynote address, while Miss Arkansas 2025 Kennedy Holland and Miss Teen Arkansas 2025 Amelia Lisowe will assist in awarding the honorees.
Heather Baker
This banquet marks a major milestone for the Hall of Fame, which is dedicated to recognizing the contributions of fitness professionals committed to enhancing physical and mental well-being across Arkansas. In addition to celebrating achievements, the Hall of Fame also aims to inspire healthier lifestyles and promote community engagement. This year’s ceremony will honor ten exceptional professionals, five of whom will receive posthumous acknowledgments.
David Bazzel
The Inaugural Class of Inductees
The Hall of Fame’s inaugural inductees include:
- Kerry Dare: Group fitness instructor at The Athletics Clubs
- Eric Godwin: Personal trainer at The Athletics Clubs
- Allen Maxenberger: Personal trainer and owner of Amax Fitness
- Angela Singleton: Group fitness instructor at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ
- Andy Stallings: Retired group fitness instructor
- Robert Farquhar (1957-2025): Personal trainer at The Gym
- Guy Gill (1990-2025): Personal trainer at Iron Fitness and The Gym
- Cynthia Gregory (1977-2025): Group fitness instructor at 10 Fitness
- Michael Gray (1971-2018): Personal trainer at The Gym
- Kristen Mougeot (1961-2024): Group fitness instructor at The Athletics Clubs
Individual tickets for the banquet are priced at $75, with table sponsorships available for $1,000.
For further details about the inductees, you can read this article by AY About You.
About the Arkansas Fitness Professionals Hall of Fame
The inspiration for the Hall of Fame stemmed from a personal loss. After the passing of Riley Hill’s father-in-law, Gary Hill, a vision emerged. “The pride he felt while accepting his award in the Arkansas Softball Hall of Fame is a moment I’ll never forget,” Hill shared.
As a group fitness instructor since 2017 and a personal trainer since 2022, Hill has been shaped by various mentors in the fitness community. It was this background that fueled her drive to create a nonprofit honoring these influential figures and inspiring future professionals. “I aim to spotlight our Arkansas fitness community by showcasing the best of the best! Imagine the lives positively impacted by encouraging Arkansans to remain active!” said Hill.
For more information about the banquet, visit www.arfitnessprohalloffame.com.
Conclusion
The Arkansas Fitness Professionals Hall of Fame is more than just an awards ceremony; it’s a celebration of dedication, passion, and community wellness. By recognizing the achievements of fitness professionals, the Hall of Fame not only honors individuals but also inspires a greater commitment to healthier living across the state. Join in the celebration and be part of a movement that encourages fitness and well-being for all Arkansans!
