Clermont is known as the “Choice of Champions” because of its international reputation as the training ground for elite athletes. The combination of pristine lakes, rolling hills and warm climate make it an ideal location to train for triathlons, track-and-field events, water sports and more.

Choice of Champions also recognizes the championship spirit. Here are some of the many “champions” who live or train in Clermont.

ATHLETES

Noah Lyles, World Record-Holding Sprinter, Youth Olympic Gold Medalist

Tori Bowie, 100m and Long Jump International Medalist

Tyson Gay, 100m American Record-Holder, World Champion 100m, 200m & 4x100m Relay

Justin Gatlin, 100m Olympic Gold Medalist

Damu Cherry, 100m Hurdles, Olympics

Kellie Wells, 100m Hurdles, Olympic Medalist

Nina Kraft, Oldest Professional Woman Ironman Winner

Churandy Martina, Three-Time Olympic Sprinter

Gwen Jorgensen, 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist Triathlete, first USA woman to win World Champion in Triathlon

Jason Couch, Professional Bowling Association Hall of Fame 

Norm Duke, Professional Bowling Association Hall of Fame

LITERATURE

Kate DiCamillo, Newbery-Medal author of The Tale of Despereaux and Because of Winn-Dixie. National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature.