Brendan Bertsch , Director of Speakers of the Rotary Club of Westfield Rotary announced that Gerry Cooney will be the club's lunch time speaker on Tuesday, May 9.
Cooney, a resident of Fanwood, was the number one ranked Heavy Weight Contender in 1981 and 1982. Cooney was born in New York City and resided in Huntington Long Island, NY.
Known as "Gentleman Gerry Cooney," he was not so nice to his opponents in the ring. Cooney's Professional Boxing record was 31 total fights, 28 wins, 24 Knock Outs and 3 defeats.
Cooney boxed Larry Holmes for the Heavy Weight Crown in 1982, which Holmes won and retained his title.
Gerry has recently written a book with John Grady about his life growing up, in the ring and life after being a Professional Fighter titled, "Gentleman Gerry, A Contender in the Ring, A Champion in Recovery." The book will be available for sale at the Rotary lunch.
"I am delighted that Gerry will be the Main Event at our Rotary lunch," said Tony LaPorta, President Rotary Club of Westfield.
The lunch is open to the public, the cost for lunch is $20.
The Rotary Club of Westfield meets the first three Tuesdays of each month for lunch at noon, at Limani Seafood Grill oat 235 North Avenue, West. Guests are always welcome. For information check out the website www.westfieldrotary.com or contact club secretary Dr. D. Michael Hart by email at drmhart@yahoo.com.