previous year1979
1980198119821983198419851986198719881989
1990next year

1980 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights

history

1980 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

  • 02 Jan Guillermo Vilas wins his fourth and final Grand Slam title at the 1979 Australian Open: On January 2, 1980, Argentine tennis player Guillermo Vilas secured his fourth and final Grand Slam title by defeating John Sadri in the final of the 1979 Australian Open. Vilas won the match with a score of 7-6, 6-3, 6-2, marking his second consecutive title in Melbourne. source: tennismajors.com
  • 07 Jan Philadelphia Flyers' 35-game unbeaten streak ends with 7-1 loss to Minnesota North Stars: On January 7, 1980, the Philadelphia Flyers' 35-game unbeaten streak, the longest in North American team sports history, ended with a 7-1 loss to the Minnesota North Stars at Met Center. The Flyers had previously achieved 25 wins and 10 ties during the streak. source: nhl.com
  • 08 Jan New York Islanders shut out Vancouver Canucks 3-0 on January 8, 1980: On January 8, 1980, the New York Islanders secured a 3-0 victory over the Vancouver Canucks, marking a significant win in their 1979–80 season. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 10 Jan Bo Rein, LSU football coach, dies in plane crash: Bo Rein, recently appointed head coach of Louisiana State University (LSU), perished in a plane crash on January 10, 1980, while returning from a recruiting trip. The aircraft, a Cessna 441, deviated from its intended course and crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off the Virginia coast. Rein had been hired by LSU in November 1979 after leading North Carolina State University to the Atlantic Coast Conference championship. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 11 Jan Nigel Short becomes youngest International Master in chess: On January 11, 1980, at the age of 14, English chess prodigy Nigel Short became the youngest International Master in history by scoring 8/15 in the Hastings Premier tournament, surpassing Bobby Fischer's previous record from 1958. source: chess.com
  • 12 Jan Bobby Crosby, American professional baseball player: Bobby Crosby, born on January 12, 1980, in Lakewood, California, is a former Major League Baseball shortstop. He played for the Oakland Athletics, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Arizona Diamondbacks, earning the American League Rookie of the Year award in 2004. After his playing career, Crosby transitioned into coaching, managing teams in the minor leagues. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 13 Jan Akira Kaji, Japanese footballer: Akira Kaji is a Japanese former professional footballer born on January 13, 1980, in Minamiawaji, Hyogo, Japan. He played as a defender for several clubs, including Cerezo Osaka, Oita Trinita, FC Tokyo, Gamba Osaka, Chivas USA, and Fagiano Okayama. Kaji also represented the Japan national team from 2003 to 2008, earning 64 caps and scoring 2 goals. He retired from professional football in 2017. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 15 Jan Matt Holliday was born on January 15, 1980: Matt Holliday, a former professional baseball player, was born on January 15, 1980, in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He is known for his successful career in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Colorado Rockies and St. Louis Cardinals. Holliday was a six-time All-Star and won the World Series with the Cardinals in 2011. source: baseball-reference.com
  • 16 Jan Albert Pujols was born on January 16, 1980: Albert Pujols, a renowned Major League Baseball player, was born on January 16, 1980, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. He is celebrated for his impressive career, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals, and is considered one of the greatest hitters in baseball history. source: britannica.com
  • 20 Jan Pittsburgh Steelers win Super Bowl XIV over Los Angeles Rams: On January 20, 1980, the Pittsburgh Steelers defeated the Los Angeles Rams 31-19 in Super Bowl XIV at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. This victory marked the Steelers' fourth Super Bowl title in six years, making them the first team to achieve this feat. Quarterback Terry Bradshaw was named Super Bowl MVP after completing 14 of 21 passes for 309 yards and two touchdowns. source: steelers.com
  • 21 Jan Kevin McKenna born January 21, 1980: Kevin James McKenna, a Canadian former professional soccer player, was born on January 21, 1980, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He played as a centre back for clubs including Energie Cottbus, Heart of Midlothian, and 1. FC Köln, and represented the Canadian national team from 2000 to 2012. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 22 Jan Jonathan Woodgate born on January 22, 1980: Jonathan Woodgate, a former professional footballer and current football manager, was born on January 22, 1980, in Middlesbrough, England. He is known for his time as a central defender with clubs such as Newcastle United, Real Madrid, and Tottenham Hotspur, as well as his contributions to the England national team. source: bbc.com
  • 23 Jan 1980 Paris–Dakar Rally concludes with Volkswagen victory: The 1980 Paris–Dakar Rally, held from January 1 to 23, concluded with Swedish driver Freddy Kottulinsky and German co-driver Gerhard Löffelmann securing the first victory for Volkswagen in the car category, driving a Volkswagen Iltis. In the motorcycle category, French rider Cyril Neveu clinched his second consecutive win on a Yamaha. The truck category was introduced this year, with Zohra Ataouat becoming the first winner driving for Sonacome. source: race-dezert.com
  • 25 Jan Xavi Hernández born in Terrassa, Spain: Xavi Hernández, a renowned Spanish footballer and manager, was born on January 25, 1980, in Terrassa, Spain. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in football history, known for his exceptional passing and vision on the field. Xavi has had a significant impact on both FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team, contributing to numerous titles and accolades throughout his career. source: britannica.com
  • 26 Jan Mary Decker sets world mile record in Auckland: On January 26, 1980, American middle-distance runner Mary Decker set a world outdoor mile record of 4:21.7 in Auckland, New Zealand, becoming the first woman to run a mile in under 4:22. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 27 Jan Birth of Marat Safin, Russian tennis player: Marat Safin was born on January 27, 1980, in Moscow, Russia. He is a former professional tennis player known for his powerful game and has won two Grand Slam titles during his career. Safin was also ranked world No. 1 in singles and is regarded as one of the most talented players of his generation. source: britannica.com
  • 29 Jan Cavaliers defeat Lakers 154-153 in quadruple overtime: On January 29, 1980, the Cleveland Cavaliers secured a 154-153 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in a game that extended into four overtimes. The match was held at the Richfield Coliseum in Richfield, Ohio, with an attendance of 13,820. The Cavaliers' Mike Mitchell led the team with 34 points, while the Lakers' Kareem Abdul-Jabbar scored 42 points. The game is considered one of the most thrilling regular-season games in NBA history. source: statmuse.com
  • 30 Jan China's first Olympic team arrives for Winter Games: On January 30, 1980, China's delegation arrived at the Lake Placid Winter Olympics, marking the nation's debut in the Winter Games. The team of 28 athletes competed in speed skating, figure skating, cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, and biathlon. Wang Guizhen achieved China's best result by finishing 18th in the women's alpine skiing slalom. source: china.org.cn
  • 31 Jan Death of South African cricketer Jacobus Duminy: Jacobus Duminy, a South African cricketer who played in three Test matches from 1927 to 1929, passed away on January 31, 1980, in Cape Town, South Africa. He was also an academic, serving as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cape Town from 1958 to 1967. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 03 Feb 1980 NBA All-Star Game: East defeats West 144-136 in overtime: The 1980 NBA All-Star Game took place on February 3, 1980, at the Capital Centre in Landover, Maryland. The Eastern Conference All-Stars overcame the Western Conference All-Stars 144-136 in overtime. San Antonio Spurs' George Gervin was named MVP after scoring 34 points and grabbing 10 rebounds. Notably, this game marked the first three-pointer in All-Star Game history, made by Larry Bird. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 04 Feb JoAnne Carner wins Whirlpool Championship of Deer Creek: JoAnne Carner secured her 25th LPGA Tour victory at the Whirlpool Championship of Deer Creek in Florida, finishing with a score of 282 (−10), two strokes ahead of runner-up Sandra Post. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 05 Feb Robin Vik: Czech tennis player profile: Robin Vik is a Czech former professional tennis player born on February 5, 1980, in Hradec Králové, Czechoslovakia. He turned professional in 1998 and achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of No. 57 on January 9, 2006. Vik's notable career highlights include reaching the semifinals at the 2005 St. Petersburg Open and the quarterfinals at the 2006 Dubai and Munich tournaments. He retired from professional tennis in 2010. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 09 Feb Soviet Union's dominance in ice hockey before the 1980 Winter Olympics: Prior to the 1980 Winter Olympics, the Soviet Union's ice hockey team was a dominant force, securing gold medals in five of the six previous Winter Games. Their prowess was evident in their consistent victories and the high skill level of players like Boris Mikhailov, Vladislav Tretiak, and Valeri Kharlamov. source: britannica.com
  • 10 Feb Jane Blalock wins Elizabeth Arden Classic: Jane Blalock secured victory at the Elizabeth Arden Classic on February 10, 1980, held at Turnberry Isle Country Club in Miami, Florida. She finished with a score of 283 (−5), earning a share of the $100,000 purse. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 12 Feb Richard Hadlee sets New Zealand Test bowling record: On February 12, 1980, during the first Test against the West Indies in Dunedin, Richard Hadlee took his 117th Test wicket, surpassing Richard Collinge's previous New Zealand record. He achieved this milestone by dismissing Alvin Kallicharran lbw. Hadlee's performance in the match included seven lbw dismissals, setting a new Test record for the most lbws in a single game. source: espncricinfo.com
  • 13 Feb Opening of the XIII Olympic Winter Games in Lake Placid: The XIII Olympic Winter Games commenced on February 13, 1980, in Lake Placid, New York. The opening ceremony was held at the Lake Placid Equestrian Stadium, marking the second time the town hosted the Winter Olympics. The Games featured 38 events across six sports, with 1,072 athletes from 37 nations participating. source: britannica.com
  • 15 Feb Wayne Gretzky ties NHL single-game assist record with seven assists: On February 15, 1980, Wayne Gretzky of the Edmonton Oilers tied the NHL single-game assist record by recording seven assists in an 8-2 victory over the Washington Capitals. This performance marked the first of three seven-assist games in his career. source: nhl.com
  • 16 Feb Eric Heiden wins Olympic gold in men's 5000m speed skating: On February 16, 1980, American speed skater Eric Heiden secured the gold medal in the men's 5000-meter event at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, setting an Olympic record with a time of 7:02.29. This victory marked his second gold medal of the Games, following his win in the 500-meter event the previous day. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 17 Feb First winter ascent of Mount Everest by Krzysztof Wielicki and Leszek Cichy: On February 17, 1980, Polish climbers Krzysztof Wielicki and Leszek Cichy achieved the first winter ascent of Mount Everest, marking a significant milestone in high-altitude mountaineering. Their successful expedition, led by Andrzej Zawada, demonstrated the feasibility of winter climbs on the world's highest peaks. source: bbc.co.uk
  • 18 Feb Barbara Petzold wins gold in women's 10 km cross-country skiing at Lake Placid Winter Olympics: On February 18, 1980, East German cross-country skier Barbara Petzold secured the gold medal in the women's 10 km event at the Lake Placid Winter Olympics. She completed the race in 30:31.54, narrowly defeating Finland's Hilkka Riihivuori, who took silver with a time of 30:35.05. This victory marked Petzold's first of two gold medals at the 1980 Games, as she also won the 4 × 5 km relay event three days later. source: csmonitor.com
  • 19 Feb Eric Heiden sets Olympic record in men's 1000m speed skating: On February 19, 1980, American speed skater Eric Heiden won the gold medal in the men's 1000-meter event at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, setting an Olympic record with a time of 1:15.18. This victory was part of Heiden's historic performance, where he secured five gold medals in all speed skating events at the Games. source: insidethegames.biz
  • 21 Feb Eric Heiden sets Olympic record in men's 1500m speed skating: On February 21, 1980, American speed skater Eric Heiden won the men's 1500-meter event at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, setting an Olympic record with a time of 1:55.44. This victory was part of Heiden's historic performance, where he secured five gold medals in all speed skating events at the Games. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 22 Feb Ingemar Stenmark wins Olympic gold in men's slalom at Lake Placid: On February 22, 1980, Swedish alpine skier Ingemar Stenmark secured the gold medal in the men's slalom event at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York. He completed the course in 1 minute and 44.26 seconds, edging out American skier Phil Mahre, who took silver, and Swiss skier Jacques Lüthy, who earned bronze. source: britannica.com
  • 23 Feb Eric Heiden wins fifth gold medal in 10,000-meter speed skating at 1980 Winter Olympics: On February 23, 1980, American speed skater Eric Heiden clinched his fifth gold medal at the Lake Placid Winter Olympics by setting a world record in the 10,000-meter event with a time of 14:28.13. This victory made Heiden the first athlete to win five individual gold medals in a single Winter Games. Heiden's performance included Olympic records in all five speed skating events, culminating in his final race where he surpassed the previous world record by over six seconds. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 24 Feb USA Olympic Hockey Team wins gold medal at Lake Placid: On February 24, 1980, the United States Olympic Hockey Team secured the gold medal at the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid by defeating Finland 4-2. This victory followed their historic 4-3 win over the Soviet Union in the semifinals, a game famously known as the "Miracle on Ice." The U.S. team's triumph marked their first Olympic gold in men's ice hockey since 1960. source: history.com
  • 26 Feb Richard Hadlee scores Test century against West Indies: On February 26, 1980, Richard Hadlee achieved his only Test century, scoring 103 runs off 88 balls against the West Indies in Christchurch. This remarkable innings included 18 fours and 2 sixes, and was completed in just 109 minutes. Hadlee's performance was instrumental in New Zealand's victory in that Test match. source: archives.sundayobserver.lk
  • 28 Feb Cricketer Ian Peebles passes away at 72: Ian Alexander Ross Peebles, a Scottish-born cricketer who played for England, Scotland, Oxford University, and Middlesex, passed away on February 28, 1980, in Speen, Buckinghamshire, England, at the age of 72. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 29 Feb Gordie Howe scores 800th NHL goal: On February 29, 1980, at age 51, Gordie Howe became the first NHL player to reach 800 career goals. Playing for the Hartford Whalers, he scored his 14th goal of the season in a 3-0 victory over the St. Louis Blues. Howe's milestone goal was assisted by Greg Carroll and Bernie Johnston. source: nhl.com
  • 01 Mar Shahid Afridi's birth date: Shahid Afridi, a renowned Pakistani cricketer, was born on March 1, 1980, in Khyber Agency, Pakistan. He is celebrated for his aggressive batting style and holds the record for the fastest ODI century, achieved in his second match in 1996. Afridi's contributions to cricket have made him a prominent figure in the sport. source: wisden.com
  • 02 Mar Jan Stephenson wins Sun City Classic in Arizona: On March 2, 1980, Australian golfer Jan Stephenson secured her fourth LPGA Tour victory at the Sun City Classic in Arizona. She finished with a score of 275 (−13), one stroke ahead of runner-up M.J. Smith, earning a $15,000 prize from the $100,000 purse. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 04 Mar Omar Bravo: Mexican footballer and manager: Omar Bravo Tordecillas, born on March 4, 1980, in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, is a retired Mexican footballer and current manager. He played as a striker, notably for Club Deportivo Guadalajara (Chivas), where he became the club's all-time leading scorer with 132 goals. Bravo also had stints with Deportivo La Coruña in Spain, Sporting Kansas City in the United States, and other Mexican clubs. Internationally, he represented Mexico in the 2006 FIFA World Cup and scored two goals in a 3–1 victory over Iran. After retiring, Bravo transitioned into coaching, becoming the manager of Arizona Monsoon FC in January 2024. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 09 Mar JoAnne Carner wins Sunstar Classic on March 9, 1980: JoAnne Carner secured her 27th LPGA Tour victory at the Sunstar Classic, held from March 6 to 9, 1980, at Rancho Park Golf Course in Los Angeles, California. She finished with a score of 207 (−9), three strokes ahead of runner-up Debbie Massey. This win was part of a successful season for Carner, who also claimed victories at the Whirlpool Championship of Deer Creek and the Bent Tree Ladies Classic earlier that year. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 10 Mar Butch Goring traded to New York Islanders: On March 10, 1980, the New York Islanders acquired center Butch Goring from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for forward Billy Harris and defenseman Dave Lewis. This pivotal move bolstered the Islanders' lineup, contributing to their first of four consecutive Stanley Cup championships. Goring's leadership and performance were instrumental in the team's success during this period. source: nhl.com
  • 11 Mar 1980 World Figure Skating Championships held in Dortmund, West Germany: The 1980 World Figure Skating Championships took place from March 11 to 16, 1980, in Dortmund, West Germany. The event featured competitions in men's singles, ladies' singles, pair skating, and ice dancing, with Anett Pötzsch winning the ladies' singles title. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 13 Mar Eric Heiden sets 1,000-meter speed skating world record: On March 13, 1980, American speed skater Eric Heiden set a world record in the 1,000-meter event with a time of 1:13.60. This achievement added to his impressive list of records, including a 10,000-meter world record of 14:28.13 set on February 23, 1980, during the Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. source: brainyhistory.com
  • 14 Mar 1980 World Figure Skating Championships held in Dortmund, West Germany: The 1980 World Figure Skating Championships took place from March 11 to 16 in Dortmund, West Germany. Marina Cherkasova and Sergei Shakhrai of the Soviet Union won the gold medal in the pairs event. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 16 Mar Joanne Carner wins LPGA Honda Civic Golf Classic: Joanne Carner secured her second consecutive victory at the LPGA Honda Civic Golf Classic on March 16, 1980, at the Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego, California. She finished four strokes ahead of runner-up Judy Rankin, with a total score of 279 (−9). This win contributed to Carner's impressive performance during the 1980 LPGA Tour season, where she led with five tournament victories. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 18 Mar Birth of figure skater Alexei Yagudin: Alexei Yagudin, a prominent Russian figure skater and Olympic champion, was born on March 18, 1980. He is known for his artistic performances and technical skills, winning multiple titles including the 2002 Winter Olympics gold medal. Yagudin's career has made a significant impact on the sport of figure skating. source: britannica.com
  • 21 Mar Australia's decision to participate in the 1980 Moscow Olympics amid U.S.-led boycott: In response to the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan, the U.S. led a boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Australia faced significant pressure to join the boycott. Despite this, the Australian Olympic Federation voted 6-5 to participate, allowing 121 athletes to compete under the Olympic flag. This decision led to public backlash and division within the country, with some athletes facing vilification for their choice to compete. source: dw.com
  • 23 Mar Allan Border scores 150* and 153 in both innings of Test match against Pakistan: On March 23, 1980, during the third Test between Australia and Pakistan at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium, Allan Border became the first and only player to score over 150 runs in both innings of a Test match. He scored an unbeaten 150 in the first innings and 153 in the second innings, leading Australia to a draw in the match. source: espncricinfo.com
  • 24 Mar Louisville defeats UCLA 59-54 in 1980 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship: On March 24, 1980, the Louisville Cardinals secured their first NCAA Men's Basketball Championship by defeating the UCLA Bruins 59-54 at Market Square Arena in Indianapolis. Louisville's Darrell Griffith was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player for his performance in the final game. source: si.com
  • 29 Mar Charlie Fenwick wins 134th Grand National on Ben Nevis: On March 29, 1980, American amateur jockey Charlie Fenwick rode Ben Nevis to victory in the 134th Grand National at Aintree Racecourse, England. The race, contested over heavy ground, saw only four of the 30 starters finish, with Ben Nevis winning by 20 lengths. This marked the second American amateur victory in the Grand National's history. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 30 Mar Nancy Lopez wins Women's Kemper Open: On March 30, 1980, Nancy Lopez secured victory at the Women's Kemper Open held at Mesa Verde Country Club in Costa Mesa, California. She finished the tournament with a score of 284, even par, two strokes ahead of runners-up Debbie Massey and Jo Ann Washam. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 31 Mar Jesse Owens dies of lung cancer at 66: Jesse Owens, the American track and field legend who won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, died of lung cancer on March 31, 1980, in Tucson, Arizona, at the age of 66. source: britannica.com
  • 02 Apr Wayne Gretzky becomes first teenager to score 50 goals in an NHL season: On April 2, 1980, at 19 years old, Wayne Gretzky scored his 50th goal of the season, becoming the youngest player in NHL history to reach this milestone. This achievement marked the beginning of his prolific career, during which he would go on to score 50 goals in multiple seasons. source: thehockeynews.com
  • 04 Apr Björn Wirdheim: Swedish race car driver born on April 4, 1980: Björn Wirdheim is a Swedish race car driver born on April 4, 1980. He is known for competing in various racing series, including Formula 3000 and the American Le Mans Series. Throughout his career, Wirdheim has achieved notable success, including winning the Formula 3000 championship in 2003. source: bjornwirdheim.com
  • 06 Apr Gordie Howe scores final NHL goal in 1,767th game: On April 6, 1980, at age 52, Gordie Howe scored his 801st and final NHL goal in his 1,767th game, leading the Hartford Whalers to a 5-3 victory over the Detroit Red Wings at the Hartford Civic Center. source: nhl.com
  • 10 Apr Sean Avery born on April 10, 1980: Sean Avery, a former professional ice hockey player, was born on April 10, 1980, in Pickering, Ontario, Canada. He is known for his time in the NHL, playing for teams such as the Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, and New York Rangers. Avery was recognized for his controversial playing style and outspoken personality both on and off the ice. source: britannica.com
  • 12 Apr Milwaukee Brewers defeat Boston Red Sox 18-1 on April 12, 1980: On April 12, 1980, the Milwaukee Brewers achieved a decisive 18-1 victory over the Boston Red Sox at County Stadium in Milwaukee. The Brewers' offense was highlighted by two grand slams in a single inning, one each from Cecil Cooper and Ted Simmons. Starting pitcher Lary Sorensen earned the win, contributing to the Brewers' dominant performance. source: baseball-reference.com
  • 13 Apr US and allies boycott 1980 Moscow Olympics: In response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the United States led a boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics. This decision was supported by several allied nations, resulting in a significant absence of athletes from the games, which were held from July 19 to August 3, 1980. The boycott was a political statement against Soviet actions and aimed to pressure the USSR to withdraw from Afghanistan. source: britannica.com
  • 15 Apr Raúl López, Spanish basketball player: Raúl López Molist, born on April 15, 1980, in Vic, Spain, is a former professional basketball player who played as a point guard. He began his career with DKV Joventut in 1998, later joining Real Madrid in 2000. In 2002, he was drafted 24th overall by the Utah Jazz in the NBA. After his NBA stint, López returned to Spain, playing for Akasvayu Girona, Real Madrid, and Bilbao Basket. He also represented the Spanish national team, earning a silver medal at the 2008 Olympics and a gold at the 2009 EuroBasket. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 16 Apr Arthur Ashe retires from professional tennis: On April 16, 1980, Arthur Ashe announced his retirement from professional tennis at the age of 36, following a heart attack and subsequent bypass surgery. Despite his retirement, Ashe remained active in the tennis community, serving as captain of the U.S. Davis Cup team from 1981 to 1985. source: si.com
  • 17 Apr Lee Hyun-il's birth date: Lee Hyun-il, a former South Korean badminton player, was born on April 17, 1980, in Seoul, South Korea. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 20 Apr Florida Lady Citrus tournament won by Donna White: On April 20, 1980, Donna White secured her first LPGA Tour victory at the Florida Lady Citrus tournament in Florida, finishing with a score of 283 (−9). The event had a purse of $100,000, with White's share being $15,000. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 21 Apr Rosie Ruiz disqualified from 1980 Boston Marathon for cheating: Rosie Ruiz initially appeared to win the women's division of the 1980 Boston Marathon with a time of 2:31:56. However, suspicions arose due to her lack of visible exertion and absence from race photographs until the final stretch. Investigations revealed she had joined the race near the finish line, leading to her disqualification and the awarding of the victory to Canadian runner Jacqueline Gareau. source: history.com
  • 22 Apr Nicolas Douchez: French footballer born on April 22, 1980: Nicolas Douchez is a retired French professional footballer born on April 22, 1980, in Rosny-sous-Bois, France. He played as a goalkeeper for several French clubs, including Le Havre, Châteauroux, Toulouse, Rennes, Paris Saint-Germain, RC Lens, and Red Star. Douchez also received a call-up to the French national team in October 2009. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 25 Apr Billy Martin restrained from attacking fan during A's game: On April 25, 1980, during a game between the Oakland Athletics and the Minnesota Twins at Met Stadium, a fan threw marshmallows at A's manager Billy Martin. Martin became enraged and attempted to confront the fan, but was restrained by umpires to prevent a physical altercation. This incident was widely reported and highlighted Martin's volatile temperament. source: startribune.com
  • 26 Apr Steve Carlton pitches his 6th one-hitter against the St. Louis Cardinals: On April 26, 1980, Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Steve Carlton threw his sixth one-hitter, leading the team to a 4-0 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals. The only hit allowed was a second-inning single by Ted Simmons. This performance marked a modern league record for Carlton's sixth one-hitter. source: vault.si.com
  • 27 Apr Barbara Barrow wins Birmingham Classic on LPGA Tour: Barbara Barrow secured her first LPGA Tour victory at the Birmingham Classic on April 27, 1980, finishing with a 54-hole total of 210 (−6), one stroke ahead of runner-up Beth Daniel. source: vault.si.com
  • 28 Apr Josh Howard born on April 28, 1980: Josh Howard, a former professional basketball player, was born on April 28, 1980. He is best known for his time with the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA, where he played as a small forward. Howard had a successful college career at Wake Forest University before entering the NBA. source: basketball-reference.com
  • 29 Apr Billy Sims selected first overall in 1980 NFL Draft: On April 29, 1980, the Detroit Lions selected running back Billy Sims from the University of Oklahoma with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft. Sims had an outstanding college career, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1978 and leading the nation in rushing yards. He made an immediate impact in the NFL, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 1980. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 01 May Islanders defeat Sabres 2-1 in double overtime in Game 2 of Stanley Cup Semifinals: On May 1, 1980, the New York Islanders secured a 2-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Semifinals. The game extended into double overtime, with Bobby Nystrom scoring the decisive goal at 1:20 of the fifth period, marking the Islanders' seventh consecutive road playoff win. This series was part of the Islanders' journey to their first of four consecutive Stanley Cup championships. source: thehockeywriters.com
  • 02 May Ferguson Jenkins reaches 100 wins in both leagues: On May 2, 1980, Ferguson "Fergie" Jenkins became the fourth pitcher in Major League Baseball history to achieve 100 wins in both the American and National Leagues. He accomplished this milestone by leading the Texas Rangers to a 3-2 victory over the Baltimore Orioles at Arlington Stadium. source: baseball-almanac.com
  • 03 May Genuine Risk becomes second filly to win Kentucky Derby: On May 3, 1980, Genuine Risk made history by becoming the second filly to win the Kentucky Derby, 65 years after Regret's victory in 1915. Ridden by Jacinto Vásquez and trained by LeRoy Jolley, she secured a length victory over Rumbo, with a time of 2:02. This achievement challenged the prevailing belief that fillies couldn't compete successfully against colts in the Derby. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 04 May Hollis Stacy wins LPGA CPC Women's International Golf Tournament: On May 4, 1980, Hollis Stacy secured her seventh LPGA Tour victory at the CPC Women's International Golf Tournament in South Carolina. She finished with a score of 279 (−9), winning in a playoff against Amy Alcott. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 10 May West Ham United's FA Cup Upset Victory: On May 10, 1980, West Ham United, a Second Division team, defeated First Division champions Arsenal 1-0 in the FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium. Trevor Brooking scored the decisive goal in the 13th minute, marking West Ham's third FA Cup triumph and the last time a team from outside the top flight has won the competition. source: whufc.com
  • 11 May Pete Rose steals second, third, and home in one inning: On May 11, 1980, at age 39, Pete Rose of the Philadelphia Phillies stole second base, third base, and home plate in a single inning during a 7–3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds. This rare feat had not been accomplished in the National League since Jackie Robinson in 1954. source: michigansthumb.com
  • 13 May Ray Knight hits two home runs in one inning against Mets: On May 13, 1980, Ray Knight of the Cincinnati Reds hit two home runs in the fifth inning, including a grand slam, leading the Reds to a 15-4 victory over the New York Mets. This performance marked the first time a Reds player hit two home runs in a single inning. source: mrt.com
  • 14 May Valencia wins European Cup Winners' Cup: On May 14, 1980, Valencia CF secured their first European Cup Winners' Cup title by defeating Arsenal 5–4 in a penalty shootout after a goalless draw at Heysel Stadium in Brussels. This victory marked Valencia's third major European title, following their two Inter-Cities Fairs Cup wins in the 1960s. source: valenciacf.com
  • 16 May Magic Johnson's legendary NBA Finals performance: On May 16, 1980, Magic Johnson, a 20-year-old rookie, led the Los Angeles Lakers to a 123-107 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. Filling in at center for the injured Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Johnson recorded 42 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists, earning Finals MVP honors and securing the Lakers' first championship since 1972. source: nba.com
  • 17 May Codex wins 105th Preakness Stakes: On May 17, 1980, Codex, ridden by jockey Ángel Cordero Jr., secured victory in the 105th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course. The race was run on a fast track, with Codex finishing in a time of 1:54-1/5, defeating runner-up Genuine Risk by four and three-quarter lengths. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 19 May Dean Heffernan: Australian footballer: Dean James Heffernan, born on May 19, 1980, in Sydney, Australia, is a former professional footballer who played as a left back. Throughout his career, he played for clubs including Wollongong Wolves, Sydney United, Sutherland Sharks, Central Coast Mariners, Huddersfield Town, Melbourne Heart, Liaoning Whowin, Perth Glory, Western Sydney Wanderers, Bankstown City, Maitland FC, and Central Coast United. Heffernan also earned two caps for the Australian national team, scoring once. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 20 May Jack Walsh, Australian cricketer, dies at 67: Jack Walsh, an Australian cricketer known for his aggressive batting and slow left-arm wrist-spin bowling, passed away on May 20, 1980, in Wallsend, New South Wales, at the age of 67. He had a distinguished career, taking over 1,190 first-class wickets and scoring more than 7,200 runs. Walsh played for Leicestershire in England and was renowned for his robust approach to batting and his deceptive bowling techniques. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 21 May Eintracht Frankfurt wins UEFA Cup in 1980: On May 21, 1980, Eintracht Frankfurt secured their first UEFA Cup title by defeating Borussia Mönchengladbach 1-0 in the second leg of the final, held at the Waldstadion in Frankfurt. The aggregate score was 3-3, with Frankfurt winning on away goals. The decisive goal was scored by Fred Schaub in the 81st minute, leading to a historic victory for the club. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 22 May New York Islanders win first Stanley Cup: On May 22, 1980, the New York Islanders secured their first Stanley Cup by defeating the Philadelphia Flyers in a 5-4 overtime victory in Game 6 of the finals. This win marked a significant milestone for the franchise, establishing them as a competitive force in the NHL. The Islanders would go on to win four consecutive Stanley Cups in the early 1980s. source: britannica.com
  • 23 May Neil Burton wins ABC Masters Bowling Tournament: On May 23, 1980, Neil Burton won the ABC Masters Bowling Tournament. source: brainyhistory.com
  • 24 May New York Islanders win first Stanley Cup: On May 24, 1980, the New York Islanders secured their first Stanley Cup by defeating the Philadelphia Flyers 5-4 in overtime of Game 6 at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Bob Nystrom scored the decisive goal at 7:11 of overtime, assisted by John Tonelli. This victory marked the beginning of the Islanders' dynasty, as they went on to win four consecutive Stanley Cups from 1980 to 1983. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 25 May Johnny Rutherford wins third Indianapolis 500: On May 25, 1980, Johnny Rutherford secured his third Indianapolis 500 victory, driving the Chaparral 2K chassis. He led 118 of the 200 laps, finishing 29.92 seconds ahead of second-place finisher Tom Sneva, who made history by starting from the 33rd position. This win made Rutherford the sixth driver to achieve three Indy 500 victories. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 28 May Nottingham Forest wins the European Cup for the second time: On May 28, 1980, Nottingham Forest secured their second consecutive European Cup title by defeating Hamburg 1-0 in the final held in Madrid. The only goal of the match was scored by Trevor Francis, making history for the club. This victory solidified Nottingham Forest's status as a prominent team in European football during that era. source: bbc.com
  • 29 May Larry Bird wins NBA Rookie of the Year Award: On May 29, 1980, Larry Bird was named the NBA Rookie of the Year after an impressive debut season with the Boston Celtics. He averaged 21.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, leading the Celtics to a significant improvement in their win total. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 30 May John Hiller retires from Major League Baseball: On May 30, 1980, John Hiller, a Canadian relief pitcher for the Detroit Tigers, announced his retirement from Major League Baseball. At 37, Hiller had a 15-year career with the Tigers, setting a franchise record with 125 saves and becoming the team's all-time leader in games pitched with 545. He was the last member of the 1968 World Series championship team to play for the Tigers. source: sabr.org
  • 31 May Ken Landreaux's 31-game hitting streak ends with 0-for-4 performance: On May 31, 1980, Minnesota Twins outfielder Ken Landreaux's 31-game hitting streak concluded when he went 0-for-4 in an 11-1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles at Metropolitan Stadium. This streak, which began on April 23, 1980, remains the longest in Twins history and was the longest in the American League since Dom DiMaggio's 34-game streak in 1949. source: upi.com
  • 01 Jun Beth Daniel wins Golden Lights Championship: On June 1, 1980, Beth Daniel secured her first LPGA Tour victory at the Golden Lights Championship, finishing one stroke ahead of runner-up Nancy Lopez. Daniel's winning score was 287, achieved with rounds of 72, 74, 70, and 71. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 03 Jun New York Mets select Darryl Strawberry first overall in 1980 MLB Draft: On June 3, 1980, the New York Mets selected outfielder Darryl Strawberry from Los Angeles' Crenshaw High School with the first overall pick in the Major League Baseball amateur draft. Strawberry, known for his exceptional power and athleticism, would go on to have a distinguished career with the Mets, earning National League Rookie of the Year honors in 1983 and contributing to the team's 1986 World Series championship. source: mlb.com
  • 06 Jun Tommy John achieves 200th career win with two-hit shutout: On June 6, 1980, New York Yankees pitcher Tommy John secured his 200th career victory by pitching a two-hit shutout against the Seattle Mariners, leading the Yankees to a 3-0 win. source: blogs.fangraphs.com
  • 07 Jun Temperence Hill wins Belmont Stakes: On June 7, 1980, Temperence Hill, a 53-1 long shot, won the 112th Belmont Stakes by two lengths, defeating Kentucky Derby winner Genuine Risk and Preakness Stakes winner Codex. The race was run on a muddy track, and Temperence Hill's victory was considered an upset. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 08 Jun Chris Evert wins French Open women's singles title: On June 8, 1980, Chris Evert defeated Virginia Ruzici 6–0, 6–3 in the final to win the women's singles title at the French Open. This victory marked Evert's fourth French Open singles title and her tenth major singles title overall. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 10 Jun Matuzalém Francelino Costa born on June 10, 1980: Matuzalém Francelino Costa, known as Matuzalém, is a Brazilian footballer born on June 10, 1980, in Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. He played as an attacking midfielder and had a notable career in both Brazilian and European football, including stints with Napoli and Sporting CP. source: isitaholidaytoday.com
  • 11 Jun UEFA Euro 1980 tournament begins: The UEFA Euro 1980 tournament commenced on June 11, 1980, in Italy. This was the first Euro tournament to feature a final group stage instead of a knockout round. The tournament included eight teams and concluded on June 27, 1980, with West Germany winning the championship. source: britannica.com
  • 15 Jun Jack Nicklaus wins 1980 U.S. Open at Baltusrol Golf Club: Jack Nicklaus secured his fourth U.S. Open title on June 15, 1980, at Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, New Jersey. He set a new tournament scoring record with a total of 272, surpassing his previous record of 275 from 1967. Nicklaus began the tournament with a record-tying 63 in the first round and maintained his lead throughout, finishing two strokes ahead of runner-up Isao Aoki. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 16 Jun Brad Gushue's birth date confirmed: Brad Gushue, a prominent Canadian curler, was born on June 16, 1980, in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. He is known for his achievements in the sport, including winning a gold medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics. Gushue has been a significant figure in curling, contributing to its popularity in Canada. source: curling.ca
  • 20 Jun Freddie Patek's three-home-run game leads Angels to 20-2 victory over Red Sox: On June 20, 1980, California Angels shortstop Freddie Patek, standing 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing 148 pounds, hit three home runs and a double, driving in seven RBIs, in a 20-2 win over the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. source: baseball-reference.com
  • 22 Jun Inaugural Senior PGA Tour event held in Atlantic City: On June 22, 1980, the Senior PGA Tour held its inaugural event, the Atlantic City Senior International, at the Atlantic City Country Club in New Jersey. The tournament featured a purse of $125,000, with Don January emerging as the winner, earning $20,000. This event marked the beginning of the Senior PGA Tour, now known as the PGA Tour Champions, for golfers aged 50 and over. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 24 Jun Affirmed wins $500,000 Hollywood Cup, first horse to win $2 million: On June 24, 1980, Affirmed won the $500,000 Hollywood Cup, becoming the first horse to surpass $2 million in earnings. This victory added to his impressive career, which included winning the Triple Crown in 1978 and being named Horse of the Year in both 1978 and 1979. source: racingmuseum.org
  • 26 Jun First U.S. Senior Open Championship held at Winged Foot Golf Club: The inaugural U.S. Senior Open Championship took place from June 26 to 29, 1980, at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, New York. The tournament attracted 631 entries and was won by Roberto De Vicenzo, who finished with a score of 285, one over par, four strokes ahead of amateur William C. Campbell. source: usga.org
  • 27 Jun Jerry Reuss pitches no-hitter for Dodgers against Giants: On June 27, 1980, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Jerry Reuss threw a no-hitter against the San Francisco Giants at Candlestick Park, leading the Dodgers to an 8-0 victory. The only baserunner was Jack Clark, who reached first base in the first inning due to a throwing error by shortstop Bill Russell. Reuss retired the remaining 27 batters, striking out two and walking none. This performance marked the first no-hitter of the 1980 MLB season and the first of Reuss's career. source: latimes.com
  • 29 Jun 1980 Summer Olympics open in Moscow: The 1980 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXII Olympiad, opened in Moscow, Soviet Union, on June 29, 1980. This event was marked by a significant boycott led by the United States in protest of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, resulting in the absence of many countries' athletes. Despite the political tensions, the games featured over 5,000 athletes from 80 nations competing in various sports. source: britannica.com
  • 01 Jul Steve Ovett sets mile world record in Oslo: On July 1, 1980, British middle-distance runner Steve Ovett set a new world record for the mile at Oslo's Bislett Stadium, clocking 3:48.8. This performance surpassed the previous record of 3:49.0 held by his compatriot Sebastian Coe. The event highlighted the intense rivalry between Ovett and Coe, who had been exchanging world records in the mile and 1500 meters during that period. source: britannica.com
  • 03 Jul Record attendance at Cleveland Stadium on July 3, 1980: On July 3, 1980, Cleveland Stadium hosted a Major League Baseball game between the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Indians, drawing a crowd of 73,096 spectators. This attendance marked the largest in Major League Baseball in seven years at that time. The Indians won the game 7–0, with pitcher Wayne Garland allowing only two hits. source: baseball-reference.com
  • 04 Jul Nolan Ryan records 3,000th career strikeout: On July 4, 1980, Houston Astros pitcher Nolan Ryan became the fourth Major League Baseball pitcher to reach 3,000 career strikeouts by fanning Cincinnati Reds' César Gerónimo. Despite the milestone, Ryan allowed six runs in 4.1 innings, and the Astros lost 8–1. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 05 Jul Björn Borg's historic Wimbledon victory: On July 5, 1980, Björn Borg secured his fifth consecutive Wimbledon men's singles title by defeating John McEnroe in a five-set final. The match, lasting 3 hours and 53 minutes, concluded with a score of 1–6, 7–5, 6–3, 6–7^(16–18), 8–6. This encounter is often hailed as one of the greatest tennis matches in history, highlighting the intense rivalry between Borg and McEnroe. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 06 Jul Birth of basketball player Pau Gasol: Pau Gasol, a renowned Spanish professional basketball player, was born on July 6, 1980, in Barcelona, Spain. He is known for his successful career in the NBA and international play, contributing significantly to the sport. Gasol has won multiple championships and is celebrated for his skills and sportsmanship. source: nba.com
  • 07 Jul Larry Holmes defends heavyweight title against Scott LeDoux: On July 7, 1980, Larry Holmes successfully defended his WBC and The Ring heavyweight titles by defeating Scott LeDoux via seventh-round technical knockout in Bloomington, Minnesota. Holmes dominated the bout, leading to the stoppage before the start of the eighth round. source: upi.com
  • 08 Jul 51st MLB All-Star Game held at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles: The 51st Major League Baseball All-Star Game took place on July 8, 1980, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California. The National League defeated the American League 4–2, marking their ninth consecutive All-Star Game victory. Cincinnati Reds outfielder Ken Griffey Sr. was named the game's Most Valuable Player after going 2-for-3 with a solo home run. source: baseball-reference.com
  • 15 Jul Johnny Bench breaks home run record for catchers: On July 15, 1980, Johnny Bench hit his 314th career home run as a catcher, surpassing Yogi Berra's previous record of 313. This milestone was achieved during a game where the Cincinnati Reds defeated the Montreal Expos 12-7. Bench's home run came off pitcher David Palmer, contributing to his overall career total of 347 home runs. Yogi Berra congratulated Bench on breaking his record, expressing that he always thought the record would stand until it was broken. source: mlb.com
  • 19 Jul Moscow Summer Olympics boycott by the United States: In 1980, the United States led a boycott of the Moscow Summer Olympics in response to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. This decision was made to protest Soviet military actions and to express solidarity with Afghanistan. The boycott resulted in the absence of several countries, significantly impacting the event's participation and atmosphere. source: britannica.com
  • 20 Jul Tom Watson wins 1980 British Open at Muirfield: Tom Watson secured his third Open Championship victory on July 20, 1980, at Muirfield Golf Links in Gullane, Scotland. He finished with a total score of 271 (−13), four strokes ahead of runner-up Lee Trevino. Watson's performance included a third-round 64, which propelled him to the lead. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 22 Jul Dirk Kuyt was born on July 22, 1980: Dirk Kuyt, a former Dutch professional footballer, was born on July 22, 1980, in Katwijk, Netherlands. He is known for his time at clubs like Liverpool and Feyenoord, as well as for his contributions to the Dutch national team. Kuyt is celebrated for his work ethic and versatility on the field. source: britannica.com
  • 24 Jul Australia's men's 4x100m medley relay team wins gold at Moscow Olympics: On July 24, 1980, Australia's men's 4x100m medley relay team, known as the 'Quietly Confident Quartet,' secured a gold medal at the Moscow Olympics. The team, consisting of Mark Kerry, Peter Evans, Mark Tonelli, and Neil Brooks, achieved a time of 3:45.70, narrowly defeating the Soviet Union by 0.22 seconds. This victory marked the first time the United States did not win the event at the Olympics. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 27 Jul Sally Little wins LPGA WUI Golf Classic: On July 27, 1980, South African golfer Sally Little secured victory at the LPGA WUI Golf Classic, finishing four strokes ahead of Amy Alcott and Beth Daniel. This win marked one of Little's early successes on the LPGA Tour. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 29 Jul Fernando González: Chilean tennis player profile: Fernando González is a retired Chilean professional tennis player, born on July 29, 1980, in Santiago, Chile. He turned professional in 1999 and achieved a career-high singles ranking of World No. 5 in 2007. González won 11 ATP singles titles and 3 doubles titles, including an Olympic gold medal in men's doubles at the 2004 Athens Olympics and a bronze in men's singles at the same event. He retired from professional tennis in 2012. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 30 Jul Houston Astros pitcher J.R. Richard suffers stroke during workout: On July 30, 1980, Houston Astros pitcher J.R. Richard collapsed from a stroke while warming up at the Astrodome. The stroke was caused by a blood clot in his neck, leading to partial paralysis on his left side. Despite emergency surgery to remove the clot, Richard never returned to Major League Baseball, ending his promising career at age 30. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 01 Aug Waldemar Cierpinski wins Olympic marathon in Moscow: On August 1, 1980, East German runner Waldemar Cierpinski secured the gold medal in the men's marathon at the Moscow Olympics, clocking a time of 2:11:03. This victory marked his second consecutive Olympic marathon win, making him the second man to achieve this feat after Abebe Bikila. The silver medal was claimed by Gerard Nijboer of the Netherlands, and the bronze by Satymkul Dzhumanazarov of the Soviet Union. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 02 Aug Pat Noonan, American soccer player: Pat Noonan is an American soccer coach and former player, born on August 2, 1980, in Ballwin, Missouri. He played as a forward for several Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, including the New England Revolution, Columbus Crew, Colorado Rapids, Seattle Sounders FC, and LA Galaxy. After retiring as a player, Noonan transitioned into coaching, becoming the head coach of FC Cincinnati in 2021. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 03 Aug 22nd Olympic Games close in Moscow: The 22nd Summer Olympic Games concluded on August 3, 1980, at the Grand Arena of the Central Lenin Stadium in Moscow. The closing ceremony featured the lowering of the Olympic flag, the extinguishing of the Olympic flame, and a poignant moment with the mascot Misha shedding a tear. The event was attended by Soviet officials and IOC President Lord Killanin. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 04 Aug Seattle Mariners replace manager Darrell Johnson with Maury Wills: On August 4, 1980, the Seattle Mariners fired manager Darrell Johnson and appointed Maury Wills as his successor. Wills, a former star shortstop for the Los Angeles Dodgers, became the third Black manager in Major League Baseball history. Despite the change, the Mariners finished the season with a 44–88 record. source: mlb.com
  • 05 Aug Dick Williams achieves 1,000th career managerial win with Expos: On August 5, 1980, Dick Williams, manager of the Montreal Expos, secured his 1,000th career victory with an 11-5 win over the New York Mets at Olympic Stadium. This milestone made him the third manager in Major League Baseball history to reach 1,000 wins, trailing only Gene Mauch and Earl Weaver. The Expos' victory was notable for overcoming Doug Flynn's performance, who tied the modern major-league record with three triples in the game. source: thisdayinbaseball.com
  • 10 Aug Jack Nicklaus wins 1980 PGA Championship: Jack Nicklaus secured his fifth PGA Championship title on August 10, 1980, at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, New York. He finished seven strokes ahead of runner-up Andy Bean, marking the largest margin of victory in the tournament's stroke-play era at that time. This victory also made Nicklaus the only player since Gene Sarazen in 1922 and Ben Hogan in 1948 to win both the U.S. Open and PGA Championship in the same year. source: pgachampionship.com
  • 11 Aug Reggie Jackson hits 400th home run off Britt Burns: On August 11, 1980, Reggie Jackson of the New York Yankees hit his 400th career home run off Chicago White Sox pitcher Britt Burns. This milestone made Jackson the fourth player to reach 400 home runs while playing for the Yankees, joining Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Mickey Mantle. source: mlb.com
  • 13 Aug Soviet athlete sets women's 1500m world record: On August 13, 1980, Soviet middle-distance runner Tatyana Kazankina set a new world record in the women's 1500 meters with a time of 3:52.47 at a meet in Zürich, Switzerland. source: upi.com
  • 17 Aug Beth Daniel wins LPGA Patty Berg Golf Classic: Beth Daniel secured her second LPGA Tour victory at the Patty Berg Golf Classic on August 17, 1980, finishing with a score of 9-under-par 210, two strokes ahead of runner-up Hollis Stacy. This win contributed to Daniel's impressive career, which includes 33 LPGA Tour titles. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 18 Aug Damion Stewart's birth date confirmed: Damion Stewart, a Jamaican footballer, was born on August 18, 1980. He is known for his career as a defender and has played for various clubs, including the Jamaican national team. His contributions to football have been recognized both locally and internationally. source: worldfootball.net
  • 19 Aug George Brett's 30-game hitting streak ends: On August 19, 1980, Kansas City Royals third baseman George Brett's 30-game hitting streak was halted when he went 0-for-3 against Texas Rangers pitcher Jon Matlack. Despite Brett's hitless performance, the Royals rallied to win 4-3, scoring three runs in the ninth inning. During the streak, Brett batted .467, accumulating 57 hits in 122 at-bats. source: baseballhall.org
  • 20 Aug Reinhold Messner's first solo ascent of Mount Everest without supplemental oxygen: On August 20, 1980, Italian mountaineer Reinhold Messner achieved the first solo ascent of Mount Everest without the use of supplemental oxygen. Starting from base camp at 6,500 meters, he reached the summit in three days, navigating the North Face and the Norton Couloir. This historic climb was made during the monsoon season, adding to the challenge. Messner's accomplishment is detailed in his book, "The Crystal Horizon: Everest – The First Solo Ascent." source: guinnessworldrecords.com
  • 23 Aug Walter A. Haas Jr. acquires Oakland Athletics from Charles O. Finley: In August 1980, Charles O. Finley sold the Oakland Athletics to Walter A. Haas Jr., president of Levi Strauss & Co., for $12.7 million. This acquisition was aimed at preventing the team from relocating, as Finley had previously considered selling to Marvin Davis, who planned to move the team to Denver. Under Haas's ownership, the Athletics experienced a resurgence, winning three consecutive American League pennants from 1988 to 1990 and securing a World Series title in 1989. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 24 Aug Beth Daniel wins Columbia Savings LPGA Classic: Beth Daniel secured her fourth LPGA Tour victory by winning the Columbia Savings LPGA Classic on August 24, 1980. She finished with a 72-hole total of 276, six strokes ahead of runners-up Jane Blalock and Sandra Post. This win contributed to Daniel's impressive season, which included multiple tournament victories. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 25 Aug Ferguson Jenkins arrested for drug possession in Toronto: On August 25, 1980, Ferguson Jenkins, a pitcher for the Texas Rangers, was arrested at Toronto International Airport for possessing four grams of cocaine, two ounces of marijuana, and two grams of hashish. The arrest occurred before a game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Jenkins was later convicted but received an absolute discharge, meaning no fine, jail term, or criminal record. Major League Baseball initially suspended him indefinitely, but an independent arbitrator overturned the suspension, allowing Jenkins to return to play. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 01 Sep Nancy Lopez wins LPGA Rail Charity Golf Classic: On September 1, 1980, Nancy Lopez secured victory at the LPGA Rail Charity Golf Classic, marking one of her notable achievements during that period. This win added to her impressive record of 48 LPGA Tour victories. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 02 Sep Kim Hughes scores 117 in Centenary Test at Lord's: On September 2, 1980, Australian cricketer Kim Hughes scored 117 runs in the first innings of the Centenary Test at Lord's, marking the 100th anniversary of the first Test match between Australia and England. Hughes' performance was a highlight in a match that ended in a draw due to rain interruptions. source: cricket.com.au
  • 06 Sep Samuel Peter's birth date: Samuel Peter, nicknamed "The Nigerian Nightmare," was born on September 6, 1980, in Akwa Ibom, Nigeria. He is a former professional boxer who held the WBC heavyweight title in 2008. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 07 Sep McEnroe defeats Borg in US Open final: On September 7, 1980, John McEnroe defeated Björn Borg in a five-set match at the US Open final, with a score of 7–6^(7–4), 6–1, 6–7^(5–7), 5–7, 6–4. This victory marked McEnroe's second consecutive US Open singles title and is often regarded as one of the greatest matches in tennis history. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 08 Sep MLB Commissioner suspends Ferguson Jenkins: On September 8, 1980, MLB Commissioner Bowie Kuhn suspended Texas Rangers pitcher Ferguson Jenkins indefinitely following his August 25 arrest in Canada on charges of cocaine possession. The suspension was overturned on September 22 by arbitrator Raymond Goetz, who reinstated Jenkins. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 10 Sep Bill Gullickson sets rookie strikeout record: On September 10, 1980, Montreal Expos pitcher Bill Gullickson struck out 18 batters in a complete-game victory over the Chicago Cubs, setting a major league rookie record for strikeouts in a nine-inning game. This performance stood as the rookie record until 1998, when Kerry Wood surpassed it with 20 strikeouts. source: baseball-reference.com
  • 11 Sep Montreal Expos set stolen base record by teammates: On September 11, 1980, in a 6-5 victory over the Chicago Cubs, Montreal Expos players Ron LeFlore and Rodney Scott stole their 91st and 58th bases of the season, respectively. This achievement surpassed the previous Major League Baseball record for stolen bases by teammates in a single season, set by Lou Brock and Bake McBride of the 1974 St. Louis Cardinals. source: chicagosports.today
  • 13 Sep Daisuke Matsuzaka was born on September 13, 1980: Daisuke Matsuzaka, a prominent Japanese baseball pitcher, was born on September 13, 1980, in Aomori, Japan. He gained international fame for his successful career in both Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball and Major League Baseball in the United States. Matsuzaka is well-known for his time with the Boston Red Sox, where he contributed to the team's 2007 World Series victory. source: britannica.com
  • 14 Sep Dwight Clark begins NFL streak of 105 consecutive game receptions: On September 14, 1980, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Dwight Clark began an NFL streak of 105 consecutive games with at least one reception. This streak contributed to his career total of 506 receptions for 6,750 yards and 48 touchdowns over nine seasons with the 49ers. source: brainyhistory.com
  • 20 Sep George Brett's .400 batting average ends on September 20, 1980: George Brett, a player for the Kansas City Royals, saw his batting average drop below .400 on September 20, 1980, after an impressive season. He had been striving to maintain a .400 average, a feat not achieved in Major League Baseball since Ted Williams in 1941. Brett finished the season with a .390 average, which remains one of the highest in modern baseball history. source: baseball-reference.com
  • 21 Sep Kerry GAA wins All-Ireland Football Final: On September 21, 1980, Kerry defeated Roscommon 1–9 to 1–6 in the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship final at Croke Park, Dublin. This victory marked Kerry's third consecutive All-Ireland title. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 25 Sep Padres Base Stealing Achievement: Jerry Mumphrey joined Ozzie Smith and Gene Richards in achieving the impressive milestone of stealing 50 bases in the baseball season for the San Diego Padres.
  • 27 Sep Marvin Hagler wins middleweight championship amid riot: On September 27, 1980, Marvin Hagler defeated Alan Minter by third-round technical knockout to claim the world middleweight title. The bout, held at London's Wembley Arena, was marred by a riot instigated by Minter's fans following the stoppage. source: britannica.com
  • 28 Sep Jerilyn Britz wins Mary Kay Classic in sudden death playoff: Jerilyn Britz secured her second LPGA Tour victory at the 1980 Mary Kay Classic, defeating Nancy Lopez-Melton in a sudden death playoff. The tournament, reduced to two rounds due to rain, concluded with Britz's 5-foot birdie putt on the second extra hole. This win marked Britz's first title of the 1980 season. source: upi.com
  • 29 Sep Patrick Agyemang - Ghanaian footballer: Patrick Agyemang is a former professional footballer born on September 29, 1980, in Walthamstow, England. He began his career at Wimbledon, later playing for clubs including Gillingham, Preston North End, Queens Park Rangers, and Portsmouth. Internationally, Agyemang represented Ghana, earning two caps and scoring one goal. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 30 Sep New York Mets defeat Pittsburgh Pirates 3-2 at Shea Stadium: On September 30, 1980, the New York Mets secured a 3-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates at Shea Stadium. The game was attended by only 1,754 fans, marking the smallest crowd in the stadium's history. Mets pitcher Pete Falcone earned the win, pitching a complete game. source: baseball-reference.com
  • 02 Oct Larry Holmes defeats Muhammad Ali in heavyweight title bout: On October 2, 1980, Larry Holmes successfully defended his WBC heavyweight title against Muhammad Ali at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Holmes dominated the fight, winning every round on all three judges' scorecards. In the tenth round, Ali's trainer, Angelo Dundee, stopped the fight, resulting in an 11th-round technical knockout. This marked Ali's only stoppage defeat in his career. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 04 Oct Tomáš Rosický, Czech footballer, born on October 4, 1980: Tomáš Rosický, a Czech former professional footballer, was born on October 4, 1980, in Prague, Czechoslovakia. He played as a midfielder for clubs including Sparta Prague, Borussia Dortmund, and Arsenal, and served as the captain of the Czech Republic national team for a decade. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 05 Oct Alan Jones wins Formula 1 World Championship in 1980: Australian driver Alan Jones secured the 1980 Formula 1 World Drivers' Championship, becoming the first to do so with the Williams team. He clinched the title after winning the Canadian Grand Prix on September 28, 1980, where his main rival, Nelson Piquet, retired due to engine failure. Jones's victory was further solidified by his win at the United States Grand Prix on October 5, 1980, at Watkins Glen, marking his fifth win of the season. source: formula1.com
  • 10 Oct Royals win AL pennant by sweeping Yankees in 1980 ALCS: On October 10, 1980, the Kansas City Royals completed a 3-0 sweep of the New York Yankees in the American League Championship Series, clinching their first-ever AL pennant. The decisive Game 3 saw Royals pitcher Dan Quisenberry strike out Willie Randolph for the final out, securing the victory. source: mlb.com
  • 11 Oct Dallas Mavericks' inaugural NBA game: On October 11, 1980, the Dallas Mavericks played their first NBA regular-season game at Reunion Arena, defeating the San Antonio Spurs 103-92. Winford Boynes led the team with 20 points, and Tom LaGarde added 19 points. The Mavericks led by as many as 16 points in the second half, holding off a late comeback attempt by the Spurs, who were led by George Gervin's 33 points. source: nba.com
  • 12 Oct Philadelphia Phillies advance to World Series: On October 12, 1980, the Philadelphia Phillies clinched the National League Championship by defeating the Houston Astros 8-7 in Game 5 of the NLCS. Garry Maddox's RBI double in the 10th inning secured the victory, propelling the Phillies to their first World Series appearance since 1950. source: mlb.com
  • 14 Oct Philadelphia Phillies win World Series opener against Kansas City Royals: On October 14, 1980, the Philadelphia Phillies secured a 7-6 victory over the Kansas City Royals in Game 1 of the World Series at Veterans Stadium. The Phillies rallied from a 4-0 deficit, highlighted by a three-run home run from Bake McBride in the third inning. Despite a late two-run homer by Willie Aikens, Tug McGraw closed the game, earning a save and marking the Phillies' first World Series win since 1915. source: baseball-reference.com
  • 15 Oct George Brett undergoes minor surgery for hemorrhoids during 1980 World Series: Kansas City Royals third baseman George Brett underwent minor surgery on October 16, 1980, to alleviate a severe hemorrhoidal condition that had been causing him significant pain during the World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. Despite the discomfort, Brett had been playing through the pain, even hitting a home run in Game 3 of the series. After the surgery, he returned to the lineup and continued to contribute to the Royals' efforts in the series. source: upi.com
  • 16 Oct Timana Tahu: Australian Rugby League Player: Timana Tahu, born on October 16, 1980, in Melbourne, Australia, is a former professional rugby league and rugby union footballer. He began his career with the Newcastle Knights in the NRL, winning a premiership in 2001. Tahu also represented New South Wales and Australia in rugby league. In 2008, he transitioned to rugby union, playing for the New South Wales Waratahs and earning four caps for the Wallabies. He returned to rugby league in 2010, playing for the Parramatta Eels and later the Penrith Panthers, before finishing his career with the Newcastle Knights in 2014. After retiring, Tahu has been involved in initiatives supporting Indigenous youth through education and employment programs. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 17 Oct Birth of Russian volleyball player Ekaterina Gamova: Ekaterina Gamova, a prominent Russian volleyball player, was born on October 17, 1980. She is known for her exceptional skills and has represented Russia in multiple international competitions, including the Olympics and World Championships. Gamova is celebrated for her contributions to the sport and is regarded as one of the best female volleyball players in history. source: britannica.com
  • 18 Oct Detroit Pistons set NBA record with 21 blocked shots against Atlanta Hawks: On October 18, 1980, the Detroit Pistons achieved an NBA record by blocking 21 shots in a double-overtime game against the Atlanta Hawks. Despite this defensive feat, the Pistons lost the game 125-123. source: brainyhistory.com
  • 21 Oct Philadelphia Phillies win first World Series title: On October 21, 1980, the Philadelphia Phillies secured their first World Series championship by defeating the Kansas City Royals 4-1 in Game 6. The game was held at Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia, with Steve Carlton pitching seven innings and Mike Schmidt contributing a two-run single in the third inning. Tug McGraw closed the game by striking out Willie Wilson with the bases loaded in the ninth inning. source: apnews.com
  • 25 Oct Mike Weaver retains WBA heavyweight title by defeating Gerrie Coetzee: On October 25, 1980, Mike Weaver successfully defended his WBA heavyweight title by stopping South African challenger Gerrie Coetzee in the 13th round in Sun City, South Africa. Weaver had previously won the title in March 1980 by knocking out John Tate in the 15th round. This victory marked his first title defense. source: upi.com
  • 26 Oct Grete Waitz wins the New York City Marathon: On October 26, 1980, Grete Waitz won the New York City Marathon, marking her first victory in this prestigious race. She completed the marathon in a time of 2:32:30, setting a new women's world record at the time. Waitz's win was significant in popularizing women's distance running and she went on to win the NYC Marathon a total of nine times. source: nytimes.com
  • 28 Oct Alan Smith - English footballer: Alan Smith, born on October 28, 1980, in Rothwell, England, is a former professional footballer who played as a striker and midfielder. He began his career with Leeds United, making his debut at 18 and scoring 38 goals in 172 appearances. After Leeds' relegation in 2004, Smith joined Manchester United, where he was converted into a holding midfielder following a significant injury. He later played for Newcastle United, Milton Keynes Dons, and Notts County, earning 19 caps for the England national team. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 04 Nov Sadaharu Oh announces retirement from professional baseball: On November 4, 1980, Sadaharu Oh, the legendary Japanese baseball player, announced his retirement from professional baseball after a 21-year career with the Yomiuri Giants. At 40, Oh had accumulated 868 home runs, surpassing Hank Aaron's record of 755. He expressed his decision to step down due to reaching his physical and spiritual limits, and planned to transition into a coaching role with the team. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 05 Nov Birth of Christoph Metzelder: Christoph Metzelder, a former German professional footballer, was born on November 5, 1980. He is known for his time as a central defender with clubs like Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid, as well as the German national team. Metzelder has also been involved in various charitable activities and sports commentary after his retirement from professional football. source: bundesliga.com
  • 07 Nov Birth of Gervasio Deferr, Olympic gymnast: Gervasio Deferr, a renowned Spanish gymnast, was born on November 7, 1980. He is best known for his achievements in the vault and floor exercise, winning multiple medals at the Olympic Games and World Championships. Deferr's contributions to gymnastics have made him a prominent figure in the sport. source: britannica.com
  • 09 Nov Tatsuko Ohsako wins Mazda Japan Classic: On November 9, 1980, Japanese golfer Tatsuko Ohsako secured her first LPGA Tour victory at the Mazda Japan Classic, co-sanctioned with the LPGA of Japan Tour. She finished with a score of 213 (−9), three strokes ahead of runner-up Pat Bradley. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 11 Nov Mike Bossy scores four goals in 6-6 tie against Minnesota North Stars: On November 11, 1980, New York Islanders' right wing Mike Bossy scored four goals in a 6-6 tie against the visiting Minnesota North Stars. This performance marked one of his multiple four-goal games during his NHL career. source: onthisday.com
  • 14 Nov Jeff Chandler wins WBA bantamweight title by defeating Julian Solís: On November 14, 1980, Jeff Chandler won the WBA bantamweight title by defeating Julian Solís via a 14th-round technical knockout at Jai-Alai Fronton in Miami, Florida. source: phillyboxinghistory.com
  • 16 Nov Doug Williams sets Buccaneers' single-game passing record with 486 yards: On November 16, 1980, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Doug Williams threw for 486 yards and four touchdowns in a 38-30 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. This performance remains the Buccaneers' single-game passing record as of 2010. source: buccaneers.com
  • 18 Nov George Brett wins AL MVP despite missing 45 games: In 1980, George Brett of the Kansas City Royals was named the American League Most Valuable Player after missing 45 games due to injuries. He led the league with a .390 batting average, 24 home runs, and 118 RBIs in 117 games, becoming the first player since 1950 to drive in at least one run per game. source: upi.com
  • 20 Nov Billy Martin named AL Manager of the Year for the Oakland A's: In 1980, Billy Martin was named the American League Manager of the Year after leading the Oakland Athletics to an 83–79 record, a 29-game improvement from the previous season. His aggressive managerial style, known as "Billyball," revitalized the team and increased attendance at home games. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 21 Nov Gene Michael becomes Yankees manager: On November 21, 1980, Gene Michael was appointed as the 25th manager of the New York Yankees, succeeding Dick Howser. Michael had previously served as the Yankees' general manager and managed their Triple-A affiliate, the Columbus Clippers, leading them to an International League title in 1979. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 23 Nov Edmonton Eskimos defeat Hamilton Tiger-Cats 48–10 in 68th Grey Cup: On November 23, 1980, the Edmonton Eskimos secured their third consecutive Grey Cup victory by defeating the Hamilton Tiger-Cats 48–10 at Exhibition Stadium in Toronto. The Eskimos' quarterback Warren Moon was named the Most Valuable Offensive Player, while linebacker Dale Potter received both the Most Valuable Defensive Player and Most Valuable Canadian awards. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 25 Nov Sugar Ray Leonard defeats Roberto Durán in rematch: On November 25, 1980, Sugar Ray Leonard regained the WBC and The Ring welterweight titles by defeating Roberto Durán via technical knockout in the eighth round at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans. Leonard's superior speed and movement outboxed Durán, leading to Durán's unexpected concession. The fight became infamous for Durán's 'No más' ('no more') remark, signaling his refusal to continue. source: washingtonpost.com
  • 26 Nov Mike Schmidt wins unanimous NL MVP award: On November 26, 1980, Mike Schmidt was unanimously named the National League Most Valuable Player. He led the league with 48 home runs and 121 RBIs, contributing significantly to the Philadelphia Phillies' first World Series championship. Schmidt also secured the World Series MVP after hitting two home runs and driving in seven RBIs during the series. source: upi.com
  • 01 Dec George Rogers wins 46th Heisman Trophy: On December 1, 1980, George Rogers, a running back for the University of South Carolina, was awarded the 46th Heisman Trophy. He led the nation with 1,781 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, averaging 161.9 yards per game. Rogers received 1,128 points in the voting, surpassing Pittsburgh defensive lineman Hugh Green and Georgia running back Herschel Walker. He remains the only South Carolina player to have won the Heisman Trophy. source: sports-reference.com
  • 04 Dec Stanisława Walasiewicz, Polish Olympic Runner Passes Away: Stanisława Walasiewicz, also known as Stella Walsh, was a Polish-American track and field athlete who won a gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1932 Olympics. She was tragically killed during an armed robbery in Cleveland, Ohio, on December 4, 1980, at the age of 69. source: case.edu
  • 05 Dec New Zealand cricketer Don Taylor passes away: Donald Dougald Taylor, a New Zealand cricketer who played in three Test matches from 1947 to 1956, passed away on December 5, 1980, in Epsom, Auckland, at the age of 57. source: espncricinfo.com
  • 06 Dec Steve Lovell: English footballer: Steve Lovell, born on December 6, 1980, in Amersham, England, is a former professional footballer who played as a striker. He began his career with AFC Bournemouth in 1998, later moving to Portsmouth in 1999. Lovell had loan spells at Exeter City, Sheffield United, and Queens Park Rangers before joining Dundee in 2002, where he scored 35 goals in 98 appearances. He also played for Aberdeen, Falkirk, and Partick Thistle, returning to AFC Bournemouth in 2010. Lovell retired in 2011 due to a persistent ankle injury. Notably, he is the half-brother of Eddie Howe, the manager of Newcastle United. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 09 Dec Birth of Ryder Hesjedal, Canadian professional cyclist: Ryder Hesjedal was born on December 9, 1980, in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. He is known for his achievements in professional cycling, including winning the Giro d'Italia in 2012. Hesjedal has represented Canada in various international competitions and is recognized for his contributions to the sport. source: britannica.com
  • 10 Dec Birth of Ledley King, English football star: Ledley King, a prominent English footballer, was born on December 10, 1980. He is best known for his time at Tottenham Hotspur, where he made a significant impact as a central defender. King's career was marked by his leadership on the field and his contributions to the England national team. source: bbc.com
  • 14 Dec New Orleans Saints break losing streak with 21-20 victory over New York Jets: On December 14, 1980, the New Orleans Saints secured their first win of the season by defeating the New York Jets 21-20 at Shea Stadium. The Saints' offense was led by quarterback Archie Manning, who completed 20 of 30 passes for 198 yards, and running back Tony Galbreath, who scored two touchdowns. This victory ended the Saints' 14-game losing streak, marking their only win of the 1980 season. source: pro-football-reference.com
  • 20 Dec Birth of Ashley Cole: Ashley Cole, a prominent English former professional footballer, was born on December 20, 1980. He is best known for his time at Arsenal and Chelsea, where he won multiple Premier League titles and UEFA Champions League trophies. Cole is also recognized for his contributions to the England national team, earning over 100 caps during his international career. source: britannica.com
  • 21 Dec Harold Carmichael's 127-game reception streak ends: On December 21, 1980, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Harold Carmichael's NFL-record streak of 127 consecutive games with at least one reception ended during a game against the Dallas Cowboys. Carmichael was held without a catch after taking a hit from Cowboys cornerback Dennis Thurman in the second quarter. Despite the loss, the Eagles secured the NFC East title that day. source: upi.com
  • 22 Dec St. Louis Cardinals release outfielder Bobby Bonds: On December 22, 1980, the St. Louis Cardinals released outfielder Bobby Bonds. Despite a career total of 326 home runs and 456 stolen bases over 13 seasons, Bonds struggled in 1980, batting just .203 with the Cardinals. He would go on to play for the Chicago Cubs in 1981. source: mlb.com
  • 27 Dec Calvin Murphy begins NBA record 78 consecutive free throws: On December 27, 1980, Calvin Murphy of the Houston Rockets began a streak of 78 consecutive free throws, setting an NBA record at the time. This streak lasted until March 1, 1981, when it was snapped in a game against the San Antonio Spurs. source: nba.com
  • 28 Dec Amir Elahi, first Pakistani Test cricketer, dies at 72: Amir Elahi, the first Pakistani Test cricketer, passed away on December 28, 1980, in Karachi at the age of 72. He had a notable cricket career, representing both India and Pakistan in Test matches. Elahi played six Test matches, taking seven wickets and scoring 82 runs. He was also a prominent first-class cricketer, amassing 513 wickets and 2,562 runs. source: en.wikipedia.org
  • 31 Dec Arthur Wellard passes away: Arthur William Wellard, an English cricketer who played for Somerset and England, passed away on December 31, 1980, in Eastbourne, Sussex, England. He was known for his fast-bowling all-rounder role and was a Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1936. source: en.wikipedia.org

What happened in 1980?

Discover what the world looked like in 1980:

Discover 19801980 Historical Events1980 Nobel Prize Winners1980 Most Popular Baby Names1980 Chinese Horoscope1980 Movies1980 TV Series1980 Academy Awards1980 Books1980 VideoGames