Even though local leader, politician and businessman R. Lane Beattie says he's more comfortable on the back of a horse, his influence in the lives of many Utahns says otherwise.

Beattie was honored as the Distinguished Utahn of the Year on Wednesday, joining many other local greats who have helped to shape the state's history.

"It's hard to live in this community and not be impacted by his vision," said Ned C. Hill, dean of BYU's Marriott School of Management, which sponsors the annual event. Beattie, a former state senator and currently president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber, was praised for his service, leadership example and many civic accomplishments, which most recently included support for the Salt Lake City Downtown Rising project as well as various initiatives in higher education and local health care.

"His actions let us all smile and say 'the world is good,'" Hill said during the ceremony held at the Little America Hotel. "He is at the epicenter of business and commerce."

Beattie's only daughter and the youngest of his three children, Breanne Dickson, honored her father by relating memories of growing up, noting he was "the greatest dad" and "left every thing and every person better than he found it."

KSL's Doug Wright, who emceed the event, said it was Beattie's dedication to the state of Utah that made the 2002 Olympics such a success. Beattie worked to "save Utah's reputation when it was hanging in the balance," he said.

"We live in an incredible place, and I assure you that all I've accomplished could have been done better," Beattie said. He exhibited humility and spoke of gratitude as he thanked the many people in attendance who he said had helped to shape his life.

"Successful people are those who are willing to do what others will not do," he said, noting that quality is shared by many of the people with whom he is acquainted. Beattie was presented with a cutting saddle, which presenters said was different from awards given in years past and characteristic of Beattie's life of hard work and love of horses.

Past recipients of Distinguished Utahn award have included Utahns such as Dick Bass, Steven R. Covey, LDS Church President Gordon B. Hinckley, Jon and Karen Huntsman, LaVell and Patti Edwards, Larry H. Miller and former governor Olene S. Walker.

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E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com