Kitchener downtown is an amazing place to live and work. We are blessed with so many positive influences and I would like to take this opportunity to honor one. His name is Fitz "The Whip" Vanderpool and he operates a boxing academy in downtown Kitchener. The Whip Boxing Academy is located at 113 Charles Street in the old Lang building.

Fitzroy Vanderpool has lived in Kitchener since he was six years old and started his boxing career at age nine. Turning professional in 1993 he went on to win five professional titles. The highlight of his career is winning the World Boxing Federation's Super Welterweight World Championship title in 1999!

Recently the Region of Waterloo inducted "The Whip" into the Waterloo County Hall of Fame and is the first boxer ever to be granted this prestigious recognition. Those familiar with the Vanderpool name know he comes from a family of five boys, all boxers. However, "The Whip" was deemed most likely not to succeed in boxing. This only served to inspire and motivate him to be successful, and successful he is! Staying true to himself and the community, a decision was made to make Kitchener his home and to open a business in the downtown core, helping other young athletes to achieve their goals and dreams.

"The Whip" is known for his many speaking engagements at local area high schools hoping to inspire their dreams as being possible. He is involved in various community and charity events and some of you know that if you ever need help with such events one phone call to "The Whip" is a guaranteed "yes"! Not only has this man gained World Champion status but he has earned many other titles such as:

• In 1997 was named Kitchener -Waterloo Region Inaugural Athlete Of The Year
• One of ten individuals to appear on the Eastwood Collegiate 50th Anniversary
• Wall of Recognition
• Proclaimed International Fire Safety Ambassador
• In 2003 was awarded for his outstanding contribution to fire safety
• Featured as "Local Hero" on CKCO Television
• Ran for municipal council for the City of Kitchener

Currently "The Whip" is head instructor and owner of The Whip Boxing Academy in downtown Kitchener. He has and is still producing young champions from our region. The City of Kitchener should be honored and proud to have such a World Class Professional Champion operating right here in our core! Fitz invites you to visit him at his academy and to check out the facilities. "The Whip" is never too busy to talk to anyone.

Fitz "The Whip" Vanderpool is certainly an incredible individual and should be recognized as such especially for remaining true to his Kitchener roots. Just ask yourself one question. What other World Champion do you know that lives and works just down the street from you? I for one am proud to say "I live in Kitchener, home of the World Champion Fitz "The Whip" Vanderpool!