1897 - Sports

Sports

The world heavyweight boxing title changes hands March 17 in the 14th round of a match held at Carson City, Nevada (see 1892). English-born New Zealander Robert Prometheus "Bob" Fitzsimmons, 34, knocks out champion James J. Corbett with a "solar plexus punch" (see Jeffries, 1899).

The first Boston Marathon is run April 19. The Boston Athletic Association insists that the 25-mile Patriot's Day foot race be free of "professionalism, politics, and plugs" (see 1908).

Reginald Frank Doherty, 22, wins in men's singles at Wimbledon, Mrs. Hillyard in women's singles; Robert Wrenn wins in U.S. men's singles, Juliette Atkinson in women's singles.

The United All-England Croquet Association is founded as improved mallets, wickets, and balls revive popularity for the game (see 1868).

John Peter "Honus" Wagner, 23, joins the National League's Louisville team to begin a notable career in baseball. The Pennsylvania-born "Flying Dutchman" will lead the league five times in stolen bases, accumulate a total of 722 stolen bases, and have a lifetime batting average of .329.

The Cheyenne Rodeo July begins an annual Wyoming tradition.