NEWBERRY — Former Newberry High School track student Wesley Palmore will be inducted into the Benedict College Athletic Hall of Fame at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Double Tree by Hilton, 2100 Bush River Road in Columbia.
Palmore also will be recognized at 2 p.m. Oct. 17 at Benedict College’s homecoming football game at the Charlie W. Johnson Stadium in Columbia. There are a limited amount of tickets for the Hall of Fame banquet. Tickets can be purchased by contacting Benedict College Alumni Relations Office at 803-705-4600.
During 1986-1987 at Newberry High School, Palmore ran the 110 meter high hurdles, 310 meter intermediate hurdles, and the 1600 meter relay for the Bulldogs under the direction of Coach James Caldwell. Palmore received the most valuable player-runner awards in 1986 and 1987 for leading the team in points and setting the school record in the 310 meter intermediate hurdles.
Palmore was also all-conference and qualified for the 3-A South Carolina High School Track and Field Championship for hurdles and the 1600 meters relay.
After graduating from the Army basic training in 1988 for the South Carolina Army National Guard, Palmore accepted a track and field scholarship to run from Coach Mike Steward and the Benedict College Tiger track team. He helped Benedict College win four consecutive conference championships (1989-1992) and one NAIA District 6 Championship (1991).
Palmore was also all-conference in seven events to include the 200 meter dash, 400 meter dash, sprint medley relay, 1600 meter relay, and three individual titles in the 400 meter intermediate hurdles. Palmore received numerous team awards during college award banquets. He was recognized for athletic/academic achievements and was named to the National Dean’s List. Palmore graduated with honors from Benedict College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justices.
After college, Palmore was hired by Sheriff Lee Foster as a patrol deputy for the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office. Palmore represented the sheriff’s office by competing in track and field events from 1993-1999. In 1993, Palmore established himself as one of the fastest police officers in the state by winning the 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash, and the 400 meter dash at the South Carolina Police Olympics. Palmore went on to win a total of 22 track and field medals and trophies in his law enforcement track career.
He is a combat Army veteran of Afghanistan and is employed by the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office as a lieutenant/School Resources Officer.