Muhammad Ali appears for Ky. charity announcement

[May 20, 2009]  LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) -- Boxing great Muhammad Ali made a rare public appearance in his native Kentucky during a presentation to announce a philanthropic effort.

Ali sat onstage Tuesday at the Lexington Convention Center and received a standing ovation from hundreds attending Alltech's International Health and Nutrition Symposium.

Ali was there to announce a charitable fundraising initiative between Alltech and the Muhammad Ali Center.

Alltech president Pearse Lyons pledged the effort would raise at least $500,000 before the Alltech-sponsored World Equestrian Games next year in Lexington.

Ali was also seen at President Barack Obama's inauguration in January. Parkinson's disease has limited his activity.

[Associated Press]

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