1963 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1963 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 01 Jan Glenn Trimble: Australian Cricket Player: Glenn Trimble, son of Sam, was an Australian cricket player who played two One Day International (ODI) matches for Australia in 1986.
- 11 Jan Wilt Chamberlain's Remarkable Basketball Performance: San Francisco Warriors center Wilt Chamberlain delivered an extraordinary basketball performance, scoring an impressive 67 points in a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Cow Palace, despite the Warriors' 134-129 defeat.
- 12 Jan Bobby Simpson's cricket performance against England: On January 12, 1963, Australian cricketer Bobby Simpson delivered a remarkable performance against England, contributing significantly to his team's success. His skills on the field were widely recognized and celebrated. source: espncricinfo.com
- 18 Jan Al Davis becomes Oakland Raiders head coach and general manager: On January 18, 1963, Al Davis was appointed as the head coach and general manager of the Oakland Raiders. At 33, he was the youngest person to hold these positions in professional football at the time. Davis led the Raiders to a 10–4 record in his first season, earning AFL Coach of the Year honors. source: raiders.com
- 21 Jan Birth of NBA forward Detlef Schrempf: Detlef Schrempf, a notable NBA forward, was born on January 21, 1963. He is recognized for his successful basketball career, including two NBA All-Star selections and contributions to the Seattle SuperSonics and the Indiana Pacers. Schrempf is also known for his versatility and skill on the court. source: nba.com
- 26 Jan Simon O'Donnell Born: Simon O'Donnell, an Australian cricket player from Deniliquin, New South Wales, was born. He was a notable One Day International (ODI) all-rounder who played between 1985 and 1990.
- 07 Feb World record pole vault by Pentti Nikula: On February 7, 1963, Finnish athlete Pentti Nikula set a world record in pole vaulting. This achievement highlighted his athletic prowess and contributed to the history of track and field sports. source: britannica.com
- 08 Feb Mohammad Azharuddin: Elegant Indian Cricket Player: Mohammad Azharuddin, a renowned Indian cricket player known for his elegant batting style, emerged as a significant figure in Indian cricket during the 1980s and 1990s. He represented India in international cricket with remarkable skill and grace.
- 10 Feb Lorraine Hanlon wins US female figure skating championship: On February 10, 1963, Lorraine Hanlon claimed victory at the US Female Figure Skating Championship. This achievement highlighted her talent and contributed to her recognition in the figure skating community. source: usfigureskating.org
- 15 Feb First US female world figure skating champion: On February 15, 1963, Carol Heiss became the first American woman to win the World Figure Skating Championships. Her victory marked a significant achievement in U.S. figure skating history. source: britannica.com
- 05 Mar Birth of Zimbabwean cricketer Eddo Brandes: Eddo André Brandes, a Zimbabwean cricketer, was born on March 5, 1963, in Port Shepstone, Natal Province, South Africa. He played in 10 Test matches and 59 One Day Internationals for Zimbabwe between 1987 and 1999. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 14 Mar NBA Assists Record Tied: On March 14, 1963, Guy Rodgers of the Philadelphia Warriors recorded 28 assists in a game against the St. Louis Hawks, tying the NBA single-game assists record at that time. source: nba.com
- 28 Mar New York Titans renamed New York Jets: On March 28, 1963, the New York Titans, a professional American football team, officially changed their name to the New York Jets. This rebranding was part of a broader effort to establish a new identity for the team in the competitive landscape of the NFL. source: nfl.com
- 29 Mar Pat Buckley's surprising Grand National victory: On March 29, 1963, Pat Buckley achieved a surprising victory in the Grand National, one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. This win was unexpected and added to the excitement of the event, which is known for its challenging course. source: bbc.com
- 01 Apr Duke Snider traded to New York Mets: On April 1, 1963, baseball player Duke Snider was traded from the Los Angeles Dodgers to the New York Mets. This trade was notable as Snider was a prominent player and a key figure in Dodgers history. His move to the Mets marked a significant moment in his career and in the history of both franchises. source: nytimes.com
- 02 Apr Dermot Reeve Cricket Profile: Dermot Reeve, a notable cricket player from England, known for his all-rounder skills, particularly prominent in the Hong Kong England cricket scene in 1992.
- 04 Apr Jack Del Rio Born: Jack Del Rio was born, who would later become an NFL linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings and eventually a notable NFL coach.
- 06 Apr South African Soccer League banned from public stadiums: On April 6, 1963, the South African Soccer League (SASL), established in 1961, was prohibited from using public stadiums due to its multiracial composition, violating the Group Areas Act. A scheduled match in Alberton was canceled, but 15,000 fans scaled the fence to watch Moroka Swallows defeat Blackpool United 6–1. The SASL was permanently denied access to playing fields and disbanded in 1967 after financial losses. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Apr Detroit Tigers Acquire Denny McLain: The Detroit Tigers purchased young pitcher Denny McLain from the Chicago White Sox for $25,000, a significant transaction in baseball at the time.
- 11 Apr Warren Spahn Achieves Milestone Baseball Win: Baseball pitcher Warren Spahn secured his 328th win, setting a record for most victories by a left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball history.
- 15 Apr Manoj Prabhakar's Birth: Manoj Prabhakar, former Indian cricketer and coach, was born on April 15, 1963, in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India. He was a right-arm medium-pace bowler and a lower-order batsman, known for his contributions to Indian cricket during the 1980s and 1990s. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 18 Apr Toronto Maple Leafs win Stanley Cup: On April 18, 1963, the Toronto Maple Leafs secured their second consecutive Stanley Cup by defeating the Detroit Red Wings 3-1 in Game 5 of the Final. The decisive goal was scored by Eddie Shack at 13:28 of the third period. source: nhl.com
- 19 Apr 67th Boston Marathon held: The 67th Boston Marathon took place on April 19, 1963. The event is a historic annual marathon race held in Boston, Massachusetts. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 21 Apr Betsy Rawls wins Sunshine Women's Open: On April 21, 1963, Betsy Rawls won the Sunshine Women's Open in Florida, finishing with a score of 220. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 24 Apr Bob Cousy NBA retirement: Bob Cousy, a legendary point guard for the Boston Celtics, announced his retirement from professional basketball on April 24, 1963. Known for his exceptional playmaking skills, Cousy was a key figure in the Celtics' success during the 1950s and early 1960s. His retirement marked the end of an era in the NBA. source: nba.com
- 27 Apr Bob Hayes sets 100-meter dash world record: On April 27, 1963, Bob Hayes set a new world record in the 100-meter dash, clocking a time of 9.1 seconds.
- 02 May First American summits Mount Everest: On May 2, 1963, a team of American climbers, including Jim Whitaker and Tom Hornbein, became the first Americans to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Their successful ascent was part of a larger expedition that contributed to the history of mountaineering. This achievement marked a significant milestone in American exploration. source: nps.gov
- 03 May Baltimore Orioles achieve baseball milestone: On May 3, 1963, the Baltimore Orioles achieved a significant milestone in Major League Baseball, marking a notable achievement in the team's history.
- 04 May Chateaugay wins 89th Kentucky Derby: On May 4, 1963, Chateaugay won the 89th Kentucky Derby, securing victory in the prestigious horse racing event.
- 07 May Bruno Sammartino becomes WWF champion: On May 7, 1963, Bruno Sammartino won the World Wide Wrestling Federation (WWF) Championship, becoming a prominent figure in professional wrestling. His reign as champion helped popularize wrestling in the United States and established him as a legendary figure in the sport. source: britannica.com
- 17 May Don Nottebart's no-hitter in baseball: On May 17, 1963, Don Nottebart pitched a no-hitter for the Houston Colt .45s against the Philadelphia Phillies. This achievement marked a significant milestone in Nottebart's career and is remembered as a notable event in Major League Baseball history. source: baseball-reference.com
- 18 May Bill Shoemaker wins 89th Preakness Stakes: On May 18, 1963, Bill Shoemaker won the 89th Preakness Stakes aboard the horse Candy Spots. This victory added to Shoemaker's illustrious career as one of the most successful jockeys in horse racing history. source: bloodhorse.com
- 22 May AC Milan wins European Cup: On May 22, 1963, AC Milan secured their first European Cup title by defeating SL Benfica 2-1 in the final at Wembley Stadium, with José Altafini scoring both goals for Milan. source: uefa.com
- 26 May Mickey Wright Wins LPGA Golf Tournament: Mickey Wright, a legendary female golfer, won the LPGA Dallas Civitan Golf Open, further solidifying her reputation as one of the most accomplished golfers of her era.
- 27 May NHL Colorado Rockies sold and relocated to New Jersey: On May 27, 1963, the NHL team Colorado Rockies was sold and relocated to New Jersey, becoming the New Jersey Devils. This marked a significant change in the NHL landscape and team dynamics. source: britannica.com
- 09 Jun First MLB Sunday Night Game: The first official Sunday night baseball game in Major League Baseball history was played, with the San Francisco Giants losing 3-0 to the Houston Colts, marking a significant milestone in sports broadcasting and entertainment.
- 15 Jun Juan Marichal pitches no-hitter against Houston: On June 15, 1963, San Francisco Giants pitcher Juan Marichal threw a no-hitter against the Houston Colt .45s at Candlestick Park, winning 1-0. Marichal retired the first 14 batters and struck out five, with Chuck Hiller's eighth-inning double providing the game's only run. source: sfchronicle.com
- 19 Jun Canadian Football Hall of Fame Charter Members Selected: The inaugural charter members of the Canadian Football Hall of Fame were chosen, recognizing outstanding contributors to the sport in Canada.
- 20 Jun First Mayor's Trophy Game: The New York Mets defeated the New York Yankees 6-2 in the inaugural Mayor's Trophy Game, a local baseball exhibition match.
- 23 Jun Jimmy Piersall's Unique Home Run Celebration: New York Mets player Jimmy Piersall hits his 100th home run and famously circles the bases backwards, creating a memorable and humorous moment in baseball history.
- 30 Jun Kathy Whitworth Wins LPGA Golf Tournament: Professional golfer Kathy Whitworth won the LPGA Carvel Ladies Golf Open, contributing to her legendary status in women's professional golf and highlighting women's achievements in sports during the 1960s.
- 02 Jul Epic Pitching Duel: Marichal vs. Spahn: On July 2, 1963, San Francisco Giants pitcher Juan Marichal faced off against Milwaukee Braves pitcher Warren Spahn in a legendary 16-inning game. Marichal pitched a complete game, allowing eight hits and striking out ten, while Spahn pitched 15.1 innings, allowing nine hits and one walk. The game ended with a 1-0 victory for the Giants when Willie Mays hit a home run off Spahn in the 16th inning. source: newstimes.com
- 06 Jul 77th Wimbledon Men's Tennis Championship: The 77th Wimbledon Men's Tennis Championship was held in 1963, with male tennis players competing for the title on the grass courts of the All England Club. This tournament was part of the Grand Slam series, highlighting the global appeal and competitive nature of men's tennis during that era. source: wimbledon.com
- 09 Jul 34th MLB All-Star Game: The 34th MLB All-Star Game took place on July 9, 1963, at the Municipal Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio. The National League defeated the American League, marking a significant event in baseball history. This game featured many of the era's top players and was a highlight of the baseball season. source: baseball-reference.com
- 14 Jul Jacques Anquetil wins 50th Tour de France: French cyclist Jacques Anquetil secured his fourth Tour de France victory on July 14, 1963, becoming the first to achieve this feat. Despite organizers reducing time trial lengths to challenge his dominance, Anquetil's consistent performance, including two stage wins, led him to finish 3 minutes and 35 seconds ahead of Spanish climber Federico Bahamontes. source: tntsports.co.uk
- 16 Jul Birth of Srečko Katanec: Srečko Katanec, a notable Slovenian footballer and later football coach, is born. He will play a significant role in Slovenian football during and after his playing career.
- 17 Jul Birth of Matti Nykänen, Finnish ski jumping legend: Matti Nykänen, a renowned Finnish ski jumper, was born on July 17, 1963. He became one of the most successful ski jumpers in history, winning multiple Olympic and World Championship medals. source: britannica.com
- 19 Jul Roy Siever Home Run Milestone: Philadelphia Phillies player Roy Siever hits his 300th career home run, a notable achievement in his baseball career.
- 28 Jul Kathy Whitworth wins LPGA Golf Tournament: American professional golfer Kathy Whitworth secured a victory at an LPGA tournament on July 28, 1963. Whitworth was one of the most successful female golfers in history, known for her consistent performance and numerous tournament wins. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 31 Jul Cleveland Indians hit four consecutive home runs: On July 31, 1963, the Cleveland Indians achieved a rare feat by hitting four consecutive home runs in a single inning against the Los Angeles Angels. The players involved were Woodie Held, Pedro Ramos, Tito Francona, and Larry Brown, all off pitcher Paul Foytack. This event marked the second occurrence of such a record in Major League Baseball history. source: sabr.org
- 04 Aug 1963 German Grand Prix at Nürburgring: The 1963 German Grand Prix, the sixth round of the 1963 Formula One Championship, was held at the Nürburgring circuit in West Germany on August 4, 1963. The race was won by John Surtees driving a Ferrari, with Jim Clark finishing second in a Lotus-Climax and Richie Ginther third in a BRM. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 24 Aug John Pennel becomes first to pole vault over 17 feet: On August 24, 1963, American pole vaulter John Pennel cleared 5.20 meters (17 feet, 0.75 inches) at the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, becoming the first athlete to surpass the 17-foot mark in the pole vault. source: discover.sportsengineplay.com
- 29 Aug Harmon Killebrew Baseball Home Run: Baseball player Harmon Killebrew of the Minnesota Twins hit home runs against Pete Burnside of the Washington Senators during a double-header game.
- 06 Sep 100,000th Major League Baseball game: The 100,000th Major League Baseball game was played on September 6, 1963. This milestone highlighted the popularity and growth of baseball in the United States, marking a significant moment in sports history. source: baseball-almanac.com
- 07 Sep Pro Football Hall of Fame inaugurated: The Pro Football Hall of Fame was inaugurated on September 7, 1963, in Canton, Ohio. It serves as the sport's hall of fame, enshrining exceptional figures in professional football, including players, coaches, officials, and franchise owners. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 08 Sep R H Osuna Triumphs in Men's Tennis: R H Osuna emerged victorious against Frank Froehling III in the 83rd US Men's Tennis Championship, adding another chapter to the year's tennis history.
- 13 Sep New York Yankees clinch pennant: On September 13, 1963, the New York Yankees clinched the American League pennant, securing their place in the World Series. This victory marked another successful season for the Yankees, a dominant team in Major League Baseball. source: nytimes.com
- 15 Sep Alou Brothers Baseball Milestone: Felipe, Matty, and Jesus Alou made baseball history by appearing together in the San Francisco Giants' outfield for one inning, a rare family achievement in professional sports.
- 24 Sep Dodgers Clinch Second Los Angeles Pennant: On September 24, 1963, the Los Angeles Dodgers clinched their second consecutive National League pennant. This victory marked a significant achievement in the team's history, contributing to their legacy in Major League Baseball. source: mlb.com
- 28 Sep Roller Skating Speed Record: Italian athlete Giuseppe Cantarella set a remarkable roller-skating speed record, achieving 41.5 kilometers per hour over a 440-yard distance, demonstrating exceptional athletic skill.
- 29 Sep Stan Musial's final game and historic hit: On September 29, 1963, baseball legend Stan Musial played his final game for the St. Louis Cardinals, concluding a remarkable 22-year career. During the game, Musial achieved his 3,630th career hit, solidifying his status as one of the game's all-time greats. source: baseball-reference.com
- 02 Oct Sandy Koufax sets World Series strikeout record: On October 2, 1963, Sandy Koufax set a World Series record by striking out 15 batters in a single game. This performance contributed to the Los Angeles Dodgers' victory over the New York Yankees in Game 1 of the World Series. source: baseball-reference.com
- 06 Oct Dodgers Triumph in World Series: On October 6, 1963, the Los Angeles Dodgers completed a World Series sweep of the New York Yankees, winning Game 4 with a 2-1 victory. Sandy Koufax was named the World Series MVP for his outstanding pitching performance. source: mlb.com
- 12 Oct Final event at historic Polo Grounds: The Polo Grounds, a historic sports venue in New York City, hosted its final event on October 12, 1963. This marked the end of an era for the stadium, which had been home to various sports teams, including the New York Giants and the New York Mets. source: nytimes.com
- 13 Oct Ryder Cup Golf Tournament Evolves: The Ryder Cup, a prestigious golf tournament, saw significant changes in its format and organization in 1963. This evolution aimed to enhance competition and viewer engagement, solidifying its status in the sports world. source: bbc.com
- 18 Oct Mexico City selected as 1968 Olympic host: On October 18, 1963, Mexico City was officially selected to host the 1968 Summer Olympics. This decision marked the first time the Games would be held in Latin America, highlighting Mexico's growing international stature and commitment to sports. source: olympics.com
- 20 Oct Jim Brown Sets NFL Rushing Record: NFL player Jim Brown sets a remarkable single-season rushing record of 1,863 yards, further cementing his legendary status in professional football history.
- 22 Oct Brian Boitano Birth: Birth of Brian Boitano, an accomplished American figure skater who would later win an Olympic gold medal in 1988, becoming a significant figure in US figure skating history.
- 24 Oct Sandy Koufax wins unanimous Cy Young Award: On October 24, 1963, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Sandy Koufax was unanimously awarded the Cy Young Award, recognizing him as the best pitcher in Major League Baseball for that season. Koufax's exceptional performance included a 25-5 win-loss record, a 1.88 earned run average, and 306 strikeouts, leading the league in all three categories. source: baseball-reference.com
- 27 Oct Sandra Haynie wins Phoenix Thunderbirds Ladies Open: On October 27, 1963, Sandra Haynie secured her third LPGA Tour victory at the Phoenix Thunderbirds Ladies Open, finishing four strokes ahead of runner-up Kathy Whitworth. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 30 Oct Sandy Koufax wins NL MVP award: On October 30, 1963, Sandy Koufax of the Los Angeles Dodgers was awarded the National League Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. This recognition came after a remarkable season where he led the league in several pitching categories, including strikeouts and earned run average. Koufax's performance solidified his status as one of baseball's greatest pitchers. source: britannica.com
- 03 Nov Marilynn Smith wins LPGA Cavern City Open: On November 3, 1963, Marilynn Smith secured victory at the LPGA Cavern City Open in New Mexico, finishing with a score of 212. This win marked her 11th career LPGA title. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 07 Nov Elston Howard: Breaking Baseball's Color Barrier: On November 7, 1963, Elston Howard became the first African American to play for the New York Yankees, breaking the team's longstanding color barrier in Major League Baseball. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 17 Nov Kathy Whitworth wins LPGA tournament: Kathy Whitworth won the LPGA tournament on November 17, 1963, marking a significant achievement in women's golf. She became one of the most successful female golfers in history, with numerous tournament victories throughout her career. source: britannica.com
- 26 Nov Roger Staubach wins Heisman Trophy: Roger Staubach won the Heisman Trophy on November 26, 1963, while playing for the United States Naval Academy. His performance during the season was instrumental in earning him this prestigious award, recognizing him as the best player in college football. source: britannica.com
- 28 Nov Crusher wins NWA Championship: On November 28, 1963, professional wrestler Crusher won the NWA World Heavyweight Championship. This victory was a significant event in the world of professional wrestling, highlighting the popularity of the sport during that era. source: wrestlingdata.com
- 30 Nov 51st CFL Grey Cup: Hamilton Tiger-Cats defeat BC Lions: On November 30, 1963, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats defeated the BC Lions 21–10 in the 51st Grey Cup at Empire Stadium in Vancouver, British Columbia. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 05 Dec Birth of Eddie 'the Eagle' Edwards: Michael David Edwards, known as Eddie 'the Eagle' Edwards, was born in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England. He became the first British ski jumper to compete in the Winter Olympics in 1988. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 06 Dec Graeme Pollock's Test Cricket Debut: South African cricketer Graeme Pollock made his Test debut against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane on December 6, 1963. At 19 years old, he scored 25 runs in a rain-affected match. source: wisden.com
- 08 Dec LPGA Golf Tournament: Mickey Wright and Dave Ragan Jr. won the Haig and Haig Scotch Mixed Golf tournament, highlighting the competitive golf scene of the early 1960s.
- 15 Dec Asif Karim: Kenyan Cricket Player: Asif Karim was a notable Kenyan cricket player, specifically a slow left-arm bowler who represented Kenya in the 1996 Cricket World Cup. His participation marked an important moment for Kenyan international cricket representation.
- 18 Dec Ron Clarke sets 10km world record in athletics: On December 18, 1963, Australian athlete Ron Clarke set a new world record in the 10km race. His achievement was celebrated in the athletics community and contributed to his legacy as a distance runner. source: abc.net.au
- 21 Dec Death of Jack Hobbs, legendary English cricketer: Jack Hobbs, one of the greatest cricketers in history, passed away on December 21, 1963. He was renowned for his exceptional batting skills and holds numerous records in the sport. Hobbs' contributions to cricket have left a lasting legacy, and he is often celebrated as one of the game's all-time greats. source: bbc.com
- 22 Dec Tom Flores' Record-Breaking NFL Performance: Oakland Raiders quarterback Tom Flores achieved a remarkable feat by passing for six touchdowns in a high-scoring game against the Houston Oilers, winning 52-49.
- 27 Dec Mark Pike NFL player birth: Mark Pike, a former NFL player, was born on December 27, 1963. He went on to have a successful career in professional football, contributing to the sport during his time in the league. source: pro-football-reference.com
- 29 Dec Chicago Bears win NFL Championship: The Chicago Bears defeated the New York Giants 14-10 in the 1963 NFL Championship Game at Wrigley Field in Chicago. The game was played on December 29, 1963. source: en.wikipedia.org
What happened in 1963?
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