Belton, Texas – The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor hosted the 2016 McLane Lecture delivered by Chuck Norris, martial artist, actor, and Christian humanitarian. The lecture was held Wednesday, April 20, before a capacity crowd of approximately 2,400, in the arena of the Frank and Sue Mayborn Campus Center.
Norris recounted stories from his youth, his years training and competing in martial arts, and his career in television and movies.
Norris shared that he first trained in martial arts while deployed to Korea. After returning home to the states a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, he opened his own school. His decision to compete in tournaments was motivated by the desire for free publicity that a win might earn him in karate magazines.
In his first tournament appearance, Norris tasted defeat, and during the ride home, he developed a philosophy that has served him every sense.
“I decided that while I might lose again,” Norris said. “I would never lose the same way again.”
Norris, star of more than two dozen action movies, is perhaps best known for his title role in the television series Walker, Texas Ranger.
Norris shared the story behind his first film, which he wrote. Once the film was complete, no Hollywood studio wanted to risk the money distributing it. Rather than give up, Norris took it upon himself to distribute and market it himself by touring the country and renting our theater spaces.
The process was long and tiring, but it lead to his emergence as a genuine box-office draw.
“This shows what determination can do in your life,” Norris said. “You’re not giving up. Every time you hit a roadblock, just say that’s what it is. Say, I’m going to go over it and just keep on moving.”
The McLane Lecture brings internationally recognized speakers to UMHB each year to share their experiences and insights about leadership, government, and business. The annual lecture is offered through the generosity of Temple residents Elizabeth and Drayton McLane Jr.
