Just steps from the shores of the Elizabeth River in Portsmouth's historic Olde Towne sits the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame. From its inception in 1966, this special shrine celebrating the legendary sports heroes of the Commonwealth has grown into one of the most respected and admired museums honoring athletic excellence the state level. Since its first inaugural class was announced in 1972, more than 230 individuals have become esteemed members of the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and were awarded special places of honor in the Hall. Inductees are legendary in the world of sports; they have names such as Arthur Ashe, Sam Snead, Lawrence Taylor, Moses Malone, Eppa Rixey, Ann Donovan, Bruce Smith, and David Robinson to mention only a few.