1999 Greater Flint Afro-American Hall of Fame Inductee
Category: TRACK & FIELD
Parent: Ruth Sanders
Daughter: Delonne
Son: Dennis, Jr.
Dennis is a native of Flint and grew up on the north side. He attended Parkland Elementary, Emerson Junior High, Northern High School and went on to graduate from Western Michigan University.
As a football player, Dennis played left half back and end under coach Andy McDonald. He was a threat at both positions because of his speed.
However, track was by far his best sport at Flint Northern. He set a new sophomore record in the 440 yard dash and qualified for the State Meet in that same year. At that State Meet, Dennis ran a 51.2 to win his heat. In the Saginaw Valley Non-Grad Meet, the relay team of Cal Williams, Reggie Gillard, Dennis Wright and Phil Gaines set a new Saginaw Valley record in the 880, with a time of 1:33.4. As anchor, Dennis and the 880 relay team of James Hodo, Lawrence Collins and Maurice Pea set a new Saginaw Valley record of 1:30.8, bettering the time set by Leroy golden, Ken Rankin, Sy Collins and Walt McMullen. In his senior year, Dennis ran a 49.9 in the 440, which was two tenths off the State record.
At Western Michigan University, Dennis was a member of the 880 relay team that tied the American record.
Former Flint Northern Track Coach Norb Badar, (named nine times coach of the year by his state wide colleagues), named Dennis Wright his most outstanding captain as he reflected on his best athletes and teams during his 33 years as a track and cross country coach.
Dennis presently resides and works in Adrian, Michigan.
Dennis, you have made your mark in Flint’s sports history.
