BOSTON, MA—February 24, 2023—IHRSA President & CEO Liz Clark issued the following statement regarding the announcement of the passing of longtime fitness industry leader and ALS advocate Augie Nieto:
"Augie Nieto was a legend, finding great success as an entrepreneur and fitness industry leader, and even greater success as a leader in the fight against the disease that ultimately took his life—ALS.
"Augie was a friend, partner, colleague, and mentor to IHRSA staff and leaders over his many decades of business and later charitable leadership. The IHRSA family is proud to have partnered with his charity, Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS, to help raise funds to support its mission and to call attention to the importance of ceaseless innovation and research towards a cure. His legacy in our industry will carry on in supporting causes like Augie's Quest, and in echoing his message of inspiration, joy, and positive progress to those fighting, facing, and working to cure the scourge of ALS.
"His family, friends, peers, and team members are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time."
Augie's fierce battle with ALS lasted an astonishing 18 years. Since his diagnosis, Augie's Quest has raised upwards of $200 million for ALS research. Learn more about Augie and Augie's Quest.
About IHRSA
IHRSA, the Global Health & Fitness Association, is a not-for-profit trade association representing the global fitness industry of over 200,000 health and fitness facilities and their suppliers. Founded in 1981, IHRSA maintains a leadership role in advancing physical activity, which is critical for peak health and to fight the battle against obesity and chronic lifestyle diseases.
As the world's leading authority on the commercial health and fitness club industry, IHRSA’s mission is to grow, promote, and protect the health and fitness industry, while providing its members with benefits and resources. IHRSA is the publisher of Club Business International, the leading monthly magazine for the global fitness industry. IHRSA's International Convention & Trade Show will be hosted from March 20-22 in San Diego. To apply for a complimentary press pass, fill out this form.
