Baller 21

Sports Moments That Inspire

by Chris Harvey on 02/25/08

After reading a post by Claude, discussing if sports and politics mix and if sports transcend into real life inspiration, I was prompted to give a response.

Historically, there are a few sports moments that stand out.

1. Jesse Owen

Jessie Owens, in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, excelled in track and also impacted the political world. Owens, up against racial prejudices and the myths of Nazi superiority, went on to dominate with four gold medals at the Games.

2. Jackie Robinson

Jackie Robinson did it all and then some. He went to UCLA and was the first athlete to letter in four sports: baseball, basketball, football, track, and was later a lieutenant in the army. But what Robinson is legendary for is breaking the color barrier in baseball and having the courage to challenge racial segregation.

3. Eric Liddell

Eric Liddell, in the 1924 Paris Olympics, refused to run on Sunday because of his religious convictions, but still became an Olympic champion in another event. Liddell is an inspiration because of his attempt to have balance in his life, love of God and sport.

4. Tommie Smith and John Carlos

Tommie Smith and John Carlos finished first and third in the 200 meters at the 1968 Mexico Olympics. The controversy came at the medal ceremonies when both athletes, who were protesting for human rights, raised their black gloved fists in the air. Both were booed off the field and kicked off the US team and the Olympic village.

Which sports moments are not on this list?
Are there any sports moments that inspire in the late 20th Century, early 21st Century?

C.Harv