By Kirk Lang
He’s got an infectious smile, as well as a laugh, that could lift the spirits of someone thinking of seeing an expert for depression.
Truly known as a “nice guy” by all who have dealt with him, longtime professional judge and former amateur official Pete Hary was recently elected president of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame. The organization’s 20th annual induction gala is scheduled to take place on October 10 at Mohegan Sun Casino.
“For me, being president of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame means continuing the organization’s 20-year history of recognizing and honoring our beloved sport’s past, while helping the boxing community in need through our community giving program,” Hary said.
Prolific author Mark Allen Baker, a 2023 CTBHOF inductee, sees a bright future for the Hall in Hary’s hands.
“Peter brings an enormous amount of talent and experience to our organization,” he said. “I believe his creativity and vision will expand our many offerings in areas such as tournament sponsorship and merchandise. His energy is very contagious and he is always a pleasure to work with.”
Hary, who earned a BFA in Graphic Design at the University of Connecticut, is the Chief Operating Officer of Quinn & Hary Marketing. A family man, he has been married to Lauri Hary for 23 years, and the couple has one son, Matthew. The Harys won’t have to travel far for next month’s induction in Uncasville. They live in nearby Ledyard, about 16 minutes away by car.
Before his pro years in boxing, Pete was an amateur official from 2001 to 2008.
“Up at the International Boxing Hall of Fame one year, I met George Phillips, who was the Chief of Officials for Connecticut,” said Hary. “He talked me into becoming an official in 2000. Then, Mike Mazulli recruited me to become a professional judge in 2008.”
He added, “Both George and Mike turned into lifelong friends. I am grateful for my boxing family and all the friends I’ve made along the way, all with my dad still by my side.”
Hary caught the boxing bug watching fights with his dad, Peter Hary Sr., and two often-ordered pay-per-view events featuring Mike Tyson. In addition, they became regulars at fight cards at Mohegan and Foxwoods. The first major boxing event they attended, however, was the second bout between Riddick Bowe and Andrew Golota in Atlantic City, NJ. The Harys have also vacationed annually in Canastota, NY, for the International Boxing Hall of Fame induction weekends since the 1990s.
Hary Jr. cites Bowe as one of his favorite boxers, and his dad loved Holyfield, so the trilogy between the two heavyweight champions were “great fights to watch with him,” said Hary Jr.
“When it gets down to it, is there really anything better than watching a fight and drinking a few beers with your best friend?” said Hary. “I’m just lucky that person was my dad.”
Hary’s father also attends every Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame gala with his son, and this year, he’ll see his namesake presiding over it all. Hary succeeds attorney John Laudati.
“My dad has been there supporting me in every accomplishment I’ve ever had,” said Hary, who previously served as the First Vice President of the CTBHOF. “My only hope is that he is proud of all that I do.”
Heavyweight contender Cassius Chaney, who has had a couple of his fights judged by Hary, couldn’t have been more pleased to hear the affable judge now heads the state Hall.
“Your dedication to fairness and the rule of boxing has been fair and honest, making this milestone richly deserved,” said Chaney. “I wish you continued success in your new position and look forward to seeing you around town.”
Retired professional referee Joe Cusano, who was inducted into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame last year, said this is a new era for the organization.
“Peter Hary steps into his new role as president of the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame backed by a lifetime of genuine passion for the sport,” he said. “A universally respected figure in the amateur and professional boxing communities, Peter has earned his stripes through years of dedicated service as an official and judge.”
Cusano added, “During my time serving on the board, it was abundantly clear that every member approached their responsibilities with immense pride and an unwavering commitment to honoring the state’s most deserving boxing legends. Yet, Peter always stood out. His deep, encyclopedic knowledge of Connecticut boxing history and its icons is unmatched.
“While much of his hard work took place behind the scenes – coordinating details that made past events seamless and successful – those of us who attended the meetings witnessed his dedication firsthand. We knew without a doubt that he was the right person to lead the organization forward into its next chapter.”
Hary is optimistic about the future.
“As I begin my first year as president, I am humbled by the opportunity to serve this organization and to help carry forward the legacy established by those who came before us,” said Hary. “Connecticut has a remarkable boxing history, and it is our responsibility to preserve it, celebrate it, and continue building upon it for generations to come.”
