1986 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights

1986 Sports Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to

01 Jan Oklahoma Wins Orange Bowl: Oklahoma wins the Orange Bowl, claiming the college football championship for the year.
02 Jan Mike Bossy becomes fastest to 500 NHL goals: On January 2, 1986, Mike Bossy scored his 500th career goal in his 647th game, leading the New York Islanders to a 7–5 victory over the Boston Bruins. This achievement made him the fastest player to reach 500 goals at that time. source: psacard.com
04 Jan Eric Dickerson sets NFL playoff rushing record with 248 yards: On January 4, 1986, Los Angeles Rams running back Eric Dickerson set an NFL playoff record by rushing for 248 yards in a 20-0 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC Divisional Playoff game at Anaheim Stadium. source: profootballhof.com
06 Jan Birth of Petter Northug, Norwegian cross-country skiing champion: Petter Northug, born on January 6, 1986, is a renowned Norwegian cross-country skier. He is celebrated for his achievements in the sport, including multiple World Championship titles and Olympic medals. His impact on cross-country skiing has been significant in Norway and internationally. source: britannica.com
08 Jan Willie McCovey elected to Baseball Hall of Fame: On January 8, 1986, Willie McCovey was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, receiving 81.4% of the vote. McCovey, a left-handed power hitter, played 22 seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the San Francisco Giants, and retired with 521 home runs. source: britannica.com
09 Jan New York Islanders achieve 9-0 shutout victory over Pittsburgh Penguins: On January 9, 1986, the New York Islanders secured a decisive 9-0 victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins, marking their largest shutout win in franchise history. source: hockey-reference.com
12 Jan New England Patriots defeat Miami Dolphins 31-14 in AFC Championship: On January 12, 1986, the New England Patriots defeated the Miami Dolphins 31-14 in the AFC Championship Game. The Patriots capitalized on six Dolphins turnovers, converting them into 24 points. This victory marked the Patriots' first win in Miami since 1966 and secured their first trip to the Super Bowl in franchise history. source: latimes.com
15 Jan Patrick Roy records first NHL shutout in 4-0 win over Winnipeg Jets: On January 15, 1986, rookie goaltender Patrick Roy achieved his first NHL shutout, leading the Montreal Canadiens to a 4-0 victory against the Winnipeg Jets. Roy made 19 saves in the game, and Stéphane Richer contributed two goals to the win. source: nhltraderumor.com
17 Jan Tim Witherspoon defeats Tony Tubbs to regain WBA Heavyweight Title: On January 17, 1986, Tim Witherspoon defeated Tony Tubbs by majority decision in a 15-round bout at the Omni Coliseum in Atlanta, Georgia, to reclaim the WBA Heavyweight Championship. Witherspoon's victory made him the third boxer, after Floyd Patterson and Muhammad Ali, to win the heavyweight title twice. The fight was part of Don King's heavyweight unification series, aiming to crown a universally recognized world champion. source: en.wikipedia.org
24 Jan Mike Bossy Reaches 1,000-Point Milestone: New York Islanders' star player Mike Bossy achieves the prestigious 1,000-point milestone in his NHL career, highlighting his exceptional skill and significance in professional ice hockey.
25 Jan Death of New Zealand cricketer Horace Dennis Smith: Horace Dennis Smith, a New Zealand cricketer who played in one Test match in 1933, died in Christchurch, New Zealand, on January 25, 1986, at the age of 73. source: espncricinfo.com
26 Jan Chicago Bears win Super Bowl XX: On January 26, 1986, the Chicago Bears defeated the New England Patriots 46-10 in Super Bowl XX at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans. The Bears' defense, known as the "46 defense," was dominant, allowing only seven rushing yards and recording seven sacks. Defensive end Richard Dent was named Super Bowl MVP for his performance, which included 1.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one blocked pass. source: en.wikipedia.org
28 Jan Texas Rangers sign Darrell Porter: On January 28, 1986, the Texas Rangers signed catcher Darrell Porter to a two-year contract. Porter, a four-time All-Star and 1982 World Series MVP, had previously played for the Milwaukee Brewers, Kansas City Royals, and St. Louis Cardinals. In his first season with the Rangers, he appeared in 68 games, hitting 12 home runs and batting .265. source: sabr.org
02 Feb Ayako Okamoto Wins LPGA Golf Tournament: Japanese professional golfer Ayako Okamoto secured victory at the Elizabeth Arden Golf Classic, highlighting her skill in women's professional golf.
04 Feb 38th NHL All-Star Game: The 38th NHL All-Star Game took place on February 4, 1986, at the Hartford Civic Center in Hartford, Connecticut. The Wales Conference defeated the Campbell Conference 4-3 in overtime, with Bryan Trottier scoring the game-winning goal. Edmonton Oilers' goaltender Grant Fuhr was named the game's Most Valuable Player, becoming the first Black player to receive this honor. source: en.wikipedia.org
06 Feb Brendan Taylor's birth date confirmed: Brendan Taylor, a prominent Zimbabwean cricketer, was born on February 6, 1986. He is known for his contributions to the Zimbabwe national team and has played in various formats of the game. Taylor has been a key player in Zimbabwean cricket, both as a batsman and a former captain. source: bbc.com
07 Feb Debi Thomas wins U.S. Women's Figure Skating Championship: On February 7, 1986, Debi Thomas became the first African-American to win the Women's Singles title at the U.S. National Figure Skating Championship in Uniondale, New York. She achieved this historic victory while studying pre-med at Stanford University. source: themelaninproject.org
09 Feb Marvin Johnson Wins Third Light Heavyweight Title: Marvin Johnson stopped Leslie Stewart in 7 rounds in Indianapolis to win the WBA light heavyweight boxing title, marking his third championship in the weight class and demonstrating his exceptional boxing prowess.
15 Feb Valeri Bojinov Born: Valeri Bojinov, a notable Bulgarian professional footballer who would later play for several prominent European clubs, was born on this date.
16 Feb World Record in Speed Skating: A world record was set in speed skating at Karlstad, with a remarkable 10 km time of 14:12.14, highlighting the competitive nature of professional skating.
18 Feb Alvin Robertson records quadruple-double against Phoenix Suns: On February 18, 1986, San Antonio Spurs guard Alvin Robertson achieved a quadruple-double with 20 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, and 10 steals in a 120-114 victory over the Phoenix Suns. This made him the second player in NBA history to record a quadruple-double, following Nate Thurmond's achievement in 1974. Robertson's performance remains unique as the only quadruple-double achieved with steals as the fourth category. source: latimes.com
19 Feb Marta Birth: Marta, a prominent Brazilian football player, was born on this date.
21 Feb Rollie Fingers Retires: Baseball legend Rollie Fingers retires from professional baseball, refusing to cut his iconic handlebar mustache in defiance of Cincinnati Reds' policy. His distinctive facial hair became a symbol of his rebellious baseball persona.
23 Feb Wade Boggs receives record arbitration award: On February 23, 1986, Boston Red Sox third baseman Wade Boggs was awarded $1.35 million in arbitration, the highest amount at that time. Despite seeking $1.85 million, the arbitrator ruled in favor of the team, reducing the award by $500,000. Boggs went on to lead the league in hitting and on-base percentage during the 1986 season. source: upi.com
26 Feb Evert van Benthem wins 14th Frisian 11-Cities skating race: Dutch speed skater Evert van Benthem won the 14th Elfstedentocht on February 26, 1986, completing the 200 km course in 6 hours, 55 minutes, and 16 seconds. This victory marked his second consecutive win in the prestigious event, following his 1985 triumph. The race attracted over 17,000 participants, including Crown Prince Willem-Alexander, who competed under the alias W.A. van Buren. source: elfstedentocht.frl
28 Feb MLB commissioner suspends players in drug scandal: On February 28, 1986, Major League Baseball Commissioner Peter Ueberroth suspended 11 players, including notable figures like Dave Parker and Keith Hernandez, for their involvement with illegal drugs. The suspensions were among the most severe in baseball since the 1919 Black Sox Scandal. The players were given the option to serve a one-year suspension or fulfill conditions such as donating a portion of their salaries to drug-prevention programs, submitting to random drug testing, and performing community service. source: history.com
02 Mar Jari Kurri's overtime goal leads Oilers to 2-1 victory over Flyers: On March 2, 1986, Jari Kurri scored his second goal of the game 1:29 into overtime, leading the Edmonton Oilers to a 2-1 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers. The game was tied 1-1 after regulation, with Kurri's first goal in the second period and the Flyers' equalizer by Tim Kerr. The win gave the Oilers an eight-point lead over the Flyers in the overall league standings. source: washingtonpost.com
04 Mar Allan Border's performance in 1986 Test match against New Zealand: In the second Test of the 1985–86 series between Australia and New Zealand, held at Lancaster Park, Christchurch, from February 28 to March 4, 1986, Allan Border was named Player of the Match. He scored 140 runs in Australia's first innings, facing 338 balls and hitting 15 fours and 1 six. In the second innings, he was dismissed for 15 runs. The match concluded in a draw, with New Zealand's second innings at 16/1. source: espncricinfo.com
05 Mar Death of West Indian cricketer Teddy Hoad: Edward Lisle Goldsworthy Hoad, known as Teddy Hoad, was a Barbadian cricketer who captained the West Indies in their first home Test match in 1930. He passed away on March 5, 1986, in Bridgetown, Barbados, at the age of 90. source: en.wikipedia.org
07 Mar Wayne Gretzky breaks own NHL single-season assist record: On March 7, 1986, Wayne Gretzky set a new NHL single-season assist record by recording his 136th assist of the regular season against the Pittsburgh Penguins, surpassing his previous record of 125 assists from the 1983–84 season. He finished the 1985–86 regular season with 163 assists, a record that still stands. source: legendsofsport.blog
08 Mar Martina Navratilova becomes first tennis player to earn over $10 million in career prize money: On March 8, 1986, Martina Navratilova won the Computerland U.S. Women's Indoor tennis championship, earning a $32,000 first-place purse. This victory brought her total career earnings to $10,006,424, making her the first tennis player, male or female, to surpass the $10 million mark in career prize money. source: upi.com
09 Mar Juli Inkster Wins LPGA Women's Kemper Golf Open: Professional golfer Juli Inkster secured victory at the LPGA Women's Kemper Golf Open, demonstrating her skill and competitive prowess in women's professional golf.
10 Mar Bobby Doerr and Ernie Lombardi elected to Baseball Hall of Fame by Veterans Committee: On March 10, 1986, the Veterans Committee elected Bobby Doerr and Ernie Lombardi to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Doerr, a nine-time American League All-Star, and Lombardi, the 1938 National League MVP, were honored for their significant contributions to the sport. They were inducted into the Hall of Fame on August 3, 1986, alongside Willie McCovey, who was elected by the Baseball Writers' Association of America. source: baseballhall.org
11 Mar NFL introduces instant replay rule for officiating: On March 11, 1986, the NFL approved the use of instant replay to assist officials in making accurate calls during games. This rule was implemented to enhance the fairness and accuracy of officiating, allowing for reviews of certain plays. The introduction of instant replay marked a significant change in how the game was officiated, aiming to reduce errors in critical game situations. source: nfl.com
12 Mar Susan Butcher wins Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race: Susan Butcher became the second woman to win the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in 1986, completing the 1,100-mile course in 11 days, 15 hours, and 6 minutes. This victory marked a significant milestone in her career, as she had previously placed second in the race multiple times. Butcher's achievement was notable not only for her gender but also for breaking the existing speed record held by Rick Swenson. source: alaskasportshall.org
15 Mar 1986 Five Nations Championship shared by France and Scotland: The 1986 Five Nations Championship concluded on March 15, 1986, with France and Scotland both securing three wins and one loss each, leading to a shared title. This was the last time the championship was shared based on the number of victories, as the rules changed in 1994 to make such an event unlikely. source: sixnationsrugby.com
16 Mar Daisuke Takahashi was born on March 16, 1986: Daisuke Takahashi, a prominent Japanese figure skater, was born on March 16, 1986. He is known for his artistic performances and has won multiple championships, including the World Figure Skating Championships. Takahashi is celebrated for his contributions to the sport and his influence on figure skating in Japan. source: britannica.com
18 Mar New South Wales wins Sheffield Shield Cricket Championship: New South Wales secured the 1985–86 Sheffield Shield title after a drawn final against Queensland at the Sydney Cricket Ground from March 14 to 18, 1986. The match concluded with Queensland's first innings at 436/9 declared, and New South Wales' first innings at 294 all out. The final was drawn, but New South Wales had accumulated enough points during the season to clinch the championship. source: downloads.cricinfo.com
21 Mar Debi Thomas becomes first African-American to win World Figure Skating Championship: On March 21, 1986, Debi Thomas made history by becoming the first African-American to win the Women's World Figure Skating Championship in Geneva, Switzerland. This achievement followed her earlier victory at the U.S. National Championships in February 1986, where she became the first African-American to win a non-novice title. Thomas's groundbreaking performances in 1986 earned her the ABC's Wide World of Sports Athlete of the Year award. source: latimes.com
22 Mar HBO launches heavyweight boxing unification tournament: On March 22, 1986, HBO initiated a heavyweight boxing unification tournament aimed at crowning an undisputed champion. The opening bout featured Trevor Berbick defeating Pinklon Thomas by unanimous decision to win the WBC title. This series continued with subsequent matches, including Michael Spinks retaining the IBF title against Larry Holmes on April 19, 1986. source: latimes.com
23 Mar Trevor Berbick defeats Pinklon Thomas in heavyweight boxing: On March 23, 1986, Trevor Berbick defeated Pinklon Thomas in a heavyweight boxing match, solidifying his status in the boxing world. This fight was part of a significant era in heavyweight boxing history. source: boxrec.com
25 Mar Brian Boitano wins 1986 World Men's Figure Skating Championship in Geneva: American figure skater Brian Boitano secured the gold medal at the 1986 World Men's Figure Skating Championship held in Geneva, Switzerland, from March 18 to 23. The event featured top skaters from around the world competing in men's singles, ladies' singles, pair skating, and ice dancing. Boitano's victory was a significant achievement in his career, marking him as a leading figure in the sport during that period. source: en.wikipedia.org
29 Mar Romina Oprandi: Swiss-Italian tennis player: Romina Oprandi, born on March 29, 1986, in Jegenstorf, Switzerland, is a retired tennis player with dual Swiss-Italian citizenship. She turned professional in 2005, representing Italy until January 2012, when she switched to the Swiss Tennis Federation. Throughout her career, Oprandi secured 26 singles titles and 11 doubles titles on the ITF Women's Circuit, and one doubles title on the WTA Tour. Her highest singles ranking was world No. 32 on June 10, 2013. Notable achievements include reaching the quarterfinals at the 2006 Rome Masters and the 2012 Beijing Olympics. She retired from professional tennis in 2020. source: en.wikipedia.org
30 Mar Texas Longhorns defeat USC Trojans 97-81 in 1986 NCAA Women's Basketball Championship: On March 30, 1986, the Texas Longhorns secured their first NCAA Women's Basketball Championship by defeating the USC Trojans 97-81 at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky. Texas completed an undefeated season with a 34-0 record, and Clarissa Davis was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player. source: en.wikipedia.org
31 Mar Louisville defeats Duke 72-69 in 1986 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship: On March 31, 1986, the Louisville Cardinals secured their second NCAA Men's Basketball Championship by defeating the Duke Blue Devils 72-69 at Reunion Arena in Dallas, Texas. Louisville's Pervis Ellison was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Player, contributing 25 points and 11 rebounds in the final game. This victory ended Duke's 21-game winning streak and marked the first time a team from outside a power conference won the championship since the expansion to 64 teams. source: sports-reference.com
01 Apr Delhi defeats Haryana by an innings and 141 runs in 1985–86 Ranji Trophy final: In the 1985–86 Ranji Trophy final held from March 28 to April 1, 1986, Delhi emerged victorious over Haryana by an innings and 141 runs. The match took place at the Feroz Shah Kotla Ground in Delhi. Delhi's impressive performance was highlighted by significant contributions from Manoj Prabhakar (113 runs), Kirti Azad (107 runs), Mohinder Amarnath (194 runs), and Ajay Sharma (110 runs). Haryana's first innings total was 288 runs, with Ashwini Kumar scoring 74 runs. In response, Delhi amassed 638 runs in their first innings. Haryana's second innings concluded at 209 runs, with Ashok Malhotra contributing 98 runs. Maninder Singh was instrumental for Delhi, taking 8 wickets for 54 runs in the second innings. source: en.wikipedia.org
02 Apr NCAA adopts 3-point basketball rule: On April 2, 1986, the NCAA officially adopted the three-point field goal rule, allowing shots made from 19 feet 9 inches to count for three points. This decision followed years of experimentation by various conferences. The rule was implemented in the 1986–87 season, marking a significant change in college basketball strategy. source: si.com
04 Apr Wayne Gretzky sets NHL single-season points record: On April 4, 1986, Wayne Gretzky surpassed his own NHL single-season points record by recording his 214th point, achieving a total of 215 points by the end of the season. This remarkable feat included 52 goals and 163 assists, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest hockey players in history. source: espn.com
05 Apr 1986 Grand National Horse Race: The 1986 Grand National, the 140th edition of the race, took place at Aintree Racecourse on April 5, 1986. The race was won by West Tip, a nine-year-old horse ridden by jockey Richard Dunwoody, who secured victory by two lengths in a time of 9 minutes and 33 seconds. West Tip was trained by Michael Oliver and owned by Peter Luff. source: en.wikipedia.org
06 Apr Pat Bradley wins Nabisco Dinah Shore Golf Championship: Pat Bradley secured her first Nabisco Dinah Shore title on April 6, 1986, at Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage, California. She finished with a score of 280 (−8), two strokes ahead of runner-up Val Skinner. This victory marked the fourth of her six major titles. source: en.wikipedia.org
07 Apr Dwight Evans hits leadoff home run on Opening Day in 1986: On April 7, 1986, Boston Red Sox outfielder Dwight Evans led off the MLB season by hitting a home run on the first pitch against Detroit Tigers pitcher Jack Morris. This marked the earliest home run in a season's first game, surpassing the previous record held by Bump Wills of the Chicago Cubs, who hit a home run on the second pitch on April 5, 1982. Despite Evans' leadoff home run, the Red Sox lost the game 6-5 to the Tigers. source: mlb.com
08 Apr Will Clark hits his first Major League home run: On April 8, 1986, Will Clark hit his first Major League Baseball home run while playing for the San Francisco Giants against the New York Mets. This significant moment marked the beginning of Clark's successful career in the MLB, where he became known for his powerful hitting and clutch performances. The home run was a notable highlight in his rookie season. source: baseball-reference.com
10 Apr Vincent Kompany was born on April 10, 1986: Vincent Kompany, a former professional footballer and current manager, was born on April 10, 1986, in Uccle, Belgium. He is widely recognized for his leadership and defensive skills, having spent the majority of his playing career at Manchester City, where he became a club legend. After retiring, he transitioned into management, currently leading Burnley FC in the English Football League. source: bbc.com
11 Apr Dodge Morgan completes solo circumnavigation in 150 days: On April 11, 1986, Dodge Morgan became the first American to sail solo around the world without stopping, completing the 27,000-mile journey in 150 days, 1 hour, and 6 minutes aboard his 60-foot sloop, American Promise. This achievement shattered the previous record of 292 days set by British sailor Chay Blyth in 1971. source: upi.com
13 Apr Jack Nicklaus wins 50th Golf Masters Championship: On April 13, 1986, Jack Nicklaus won his sixth Masters title, becoming the oldest champion at age 46. This victory marked his 50th appearance at the Masters, and he made a remarkable comeback, finishing with a final round of 65. Nicklaus's win is celebrated as one of the greatest moments in golf history. source: pga.com
15 Apr Viv Richards scores record-breaking century: On April 15, 1986, West Indies cricketer Viv Richards achieved a remarkable feat by scoring a century in a Test match against England. His performance is celebrated as one of the greatest in cricket history. source: bbc.com
16 Apr West Indies defeat England by 240 runs in 5th Test: On April 16, 1986, the West Indies secured a 240-run victory over England in the fifth Test match at Antigua Recreation Ground, St John's. England, chasing a target of 411 runs, were all out for 170 in their second innings. Viv Richards was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance. source: espncricinfo.com
19 Apr Michael Spinks defeats Larry Holmes in heavyweight boxing championship: On April 19, 1986, Michael Spinks successfully defended his IBF heavyweight title by defeating Larry Holmes via split decision in a 15-round rematch at the Las Vegas Hilton. Judges Frank Brunette and Jerry Roth scored the fight 144-141 and 144-142 in favor of Spinks, while Joe Cortez scored it 144-141 for Holmes. The Associated Press had it 143-142 for Holmes. source: washingtonpost.com
20 Apr Michael Jordan scores 63 points in playoff game against Celtics: On April 20, 1986, Michael Jordan set an NBA playoff record by scoring 63 points in a double-overtime loss to the Boston Celtics at Boston Garden. Despite his performance, the Chicago Bulls lost 135-131 in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference First Round. source: nba.com
21 Apr 90th Boston Marathon highlights: The 90th Boston Marathon, held on April 21, 1986, featured notable performances across all divisions. Australia's Robert de Castella set a new course record in the men's race with a time of 2:07:51. Norway's Ingrid Kristiansen won the women's race in 2:24:55. In wheelchair racing, Canada's André Viger secured the men's title in 1:43:25, while the United States' Candace Cable claimed the women's title in 2:09:28. Additionally, the marathon hosted its first men's visually impaired race, won by American Ricardo Pacheco in 3:35:15. source: csmonitor.com
22 Apr Justin Pogge Birth: Justin Pogge, a Canadian ice hockey player, was born. He would later become a professional goaltender, playing in various leagues including the NHL.
23 Apr Sven Kramer - Dutch Olympic speedskater born: Sven Kramer, a prominent Dutch speedskater, was born on April 23, 1986. He is known for his exceptional achievements in long-distance speed skating, including multiple Olympic gold medals and world records. Kramer's career has made him one of the most celebrated athletes in the sport. source: britannica.com
24 Apr Bill Edrich, English cricketer, dies at 70: William John Edrich, an English cricketer renowned for his attacking right-handed batting and right-arm fast bowling, passed away on April 24, 1986, at his home in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, England. He was 70 years old at the time of his death. source: cricketweb.net
26 Apr DUPE: Baseball Game Delay: A baseball game between the California Angels and Minnesota Twins was delayed for 9 minutes due to strong winds.
27 Apr Pat Bradley wins LPGA S&H Golf Classic: On April 27, 1986, Pat Bradley secured victory at the LPGA S&H Golf Classic, finishing one stroke ahead of runner-up Janet Coles. Bradley carded a final-round 65 to achieve a total score of 272 (−16). This win marked her second consecutive LPGA Tour victory in April 1986, following her triumph at the Nabisco Dinah Shore earlier that month. source: en.wikipedia.org
30 Apr Seattle Mariners set MLB record with 36 strikeouts in consecutive games: On April 29 and 30, 1986, the Seattle Mariners struck out a combined 36 times in two games against the Boston Red Sox, setting a Major League Baseball record for most strikeouts in consecutive games. In the first game, pitcher Roger Clemens struck out 20 Mariners, and in the second game, the Mariners struck out 16 times. source: mlb.com
01 May Bill Elliott sets NASCAR qualifying record at 212.229 mph: On May 1, 1986, Bill Elliott achieved a NASCAR qualifying record by setting a lap time of 45.121 seconds, averaging 212.229 mph, during the first round of qualifying for the Winston 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. This record-breaking speed was accomplished using a Ford Thunderbird equipped with an engine built by his brother, Ernie Elliott. The record stood until 1987, when Elliott surpassed it with a speed of 212.809 mph. source: en.wikipedia.org
02 May Dynamo Kyiv wins European Cup Winners' Cup: On May 2, 1986, FC Dynamo Kyiv defeated Atlético Madrid 3-0 in the European Cup Winners' Cup final at Stade de Gerland in Lyon, France. Goals were scored by Oleksandr Zavarov, Oleg Blokhin, and Vadym Yevtushenko. This victory marked Dynamo Kyiv's second European Cup Winners' Cup title, their first being in 1975. source: en.wikipedia.org
03 May Ferdinand wins the 112th Kentucky Derby: On May 3, 1986, Ferdinand won the 112th Kentucky Derby, marking a significant victory in horse racing history. Ridden by jockey Bill Shoemaker, Ferdinand's win was notable as it was his first Derby victory, contributing to his later success in the sport, including winning the 1987 Breeders' Cup Classic. The race is remembered for its competitive field and the skillful ride by Shoemaker. source: nytimes.com
04 May Death of rally driver Henri Toivonen in a crash: Henri Toivonen, a Finnish rally driver, tragically died in a crash during the 1986 Tour de Corse rally in France. His vehicle, a Lancia Delta S4, went off the road and caught fire, resulting in both Toivonen and his co-driver, Sergio Cresto, losing their lives. This incident raised significant concerns about safety in rally racing. source: bbc.com
06 May Real Madrid wins 1986 UEFA Cup final against 1. FC Köln: Real Madrid secured their second consecutive UEFA Cup title by defeating 1. FC Köln 5–3 on aggregate. In the first leg on April 30, 1986, at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid, Real Madrid dominated with a 5–1 victory. Despite a 2–0 loss in the second leg on May 6, 1986, at Olympiastadion in Berlin, the aggregate score ensured Real Madrid's triumph. source: en.wikipedia.org
07 May First person to climb the Seven Summits: On May 7, 1986, Richard Bass became the first person to successfully climb the Seven Summits, which are the highest peaks on each of the seven continents. His achievement included Mount Everest, which he summited earlier that year, making him a notable figure in mountaineering history. Bass's accomplishment has inspired many climbers to pursue the challenge of the Seven Summits. source: britannica.com
12 May Bicycle Speed Record: Fred Markham from the United States sets an unprecedented bicycle speed record by pedaling 65 mph on a level course at Big Sand Flat, California, without pacing or wind assistance.
14 May Reggie Jackson hits 537th home run, surpassing Mickey Mantle: On May 14, 1986, Reggie Jackson of the California Angels hit his 537th career home run, moving past Mickey Mantle into sixth place on the all-time list. The home run came in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox's Roger Clemens, with Jackson's shot traveling over 400 feet to center field. Despite Jackson's milestone, the Angels lost the game 8-5. source: upi.com
17 May Snow Chief wins 111th Preakness Stakes: On May 17, 1986, Snow Chief, ridden by Alex Solis, secured victory in the 111th Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course, finishing four lengths ahead of Kentucky Derby winner Ferdinand. The race was completed in 1:54-4/5 over a fast track, with a record crowd of 87,652 in attendance. source: latimes.com
18 May Becky Pearson wins 1986 Chrysler-Plymouth Classic: Becky Pearson secured her first LPGA Tour victory at the 1986 Chrysler-Plymouth Classic, held from May 16 to 18 in New Jersey. She finished with a score of 212 (−7), one stroke ahead of the runner-up. source: en.wikipedia.org
20 May Dexter Blackstock: English Footballer: Dexter Blackstock is an English professional football player known for his career in various football clubs.
21 May Rafael Ramirez's four doubles lead Braves to 9-8 win over Cubs in 13 innings: On May 21, 1986, Atlanta Braves shortstop Rafael Ramirez achieved a rare feat by hitting four doubles in seven at-bats during a 13-inning game against the Chicago Cubs. His performance contributed significantly to the Braves' 9-8 victory at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium. source: espn.com
24 May Montreal Canadiens win 1986 Stanley Cup Final: On May 24, 1986, the Montreal Canadiens secured their 23rd Stanley Cup championship by defeating the Calgary Flames 4-3 in Game 5 of the Finals. Rookie goaltender Patrick Roy was instrumental throughout the series, earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP. The Canadiens clinched the title with a 4-3 victory in Game 5 at the Saddledome in Calgary. source: foxnews.com
28 May Joe Cowley sets American League record by striking out first seven batters: On May 28, 1986, Chicago White Sox pitcher Joe Cowley struck out the first seven Texas Rangers batters he faced, setting an American League record. Despite this impressive feat, Cowley surrendered six runs in 4⅓ innings, leading to a 6-3 loss for the White Sox. source: si.com
30 May Barry Bonds makes MLB debut with Pittsburgh Pirates: On May 30, 1986, Barry Bonds made his Major League Baseball debut with the Pittsburgh Pirates against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Three Rivers Stadium. In his first game, he went 0-for-5 with a walk and three strikeouts, and the Pirates lost in 11 innings. source: mlb.com
31 May 1986 FIFA World Cup begins in Mexico: The 1986 FIFA World Cup, hosted by Mexico, kicked off on May 31, 1986. This tournament was notable for the introduction of the 'Golden Goal' rule and featured memorable performances, including Diego Maradona's legendary 'Hand of God' goal. The event marked the second time Mexico hosted the World Cup, having previously done so in 1970. source: britannica.com
01 Jun Pat Bradley wins 1986 LPGA Championship: On June 1, 1986, Pat Bradley secured her first LPGA Championship title at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Center in Mason, Ohio. She overcame a four-stroke deficit in the final round, finishing with a score of 277 (−11) to win by one stroke over runner-up Patty Sheehan. This victory marked Bradley's fifth major championship and completed her career grand slam. source: en.wikipedia.org
02 Jun Aurel Joliat, former Montreal Canadiens star, dies at 84: Aurel Joliat, known as 'The Mighty Atom,' passed away from a heart attack in Ottawa at age 84. He was a key player for the Montreal Canadiens from 1922 to 1938, scoring 270 goals in 654 regular-season games and winning three Stanley Cups. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1945, Joliat was celebrated for his exceptional skating and stick-handling skills. source: upi.com
03 Jun Rafael Nadal was born on June 3, 1986: Rafael Nadal, a professional tennis player from Spain, was born on June 3, 1986, in Manacor, Mallorca. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, known for his exceptional clay court performance and numerous Grand Slam titles. source: britannica.com
05 Jun Steve Garvey's first MLB ejection: On June 5, 1986, San Diego Padres first baseman Steve Garvey was ejected for the first time in his Major League Baseball career. The incident occurred during a game against the Atlanta Braves when Garvey, the on-deck batter, argued a controversial call at home plate that resulted in a triple play. Umpire Charlie Williams ejected Garvey after he attempted to demonstrate where the runner had touched the plate, leading to Garvey's ejection. source: latimes.com
06 Jun Kathy Ormsby attempts suicide during NCAA championship race, resulting in paralysis: In June 1986, North Carolina State distance runner Kathy Ormsby leaped from a bridge during an NCAA championship race, leading to paralysis from the waist down. She later explained that feelings of failure toward her coach and parents drove her to this tragic decision. source: latimes.com
07 Jun Danzig Connection wins 118th Belmont Stakes: Danzig Connection, trained by Woody Stephens and ridden by Chris McCarron, secured victory in the 118th Belmont Stakes on June 7, 1986, at Belmont Park. The race was contested over 1½ miles on a dirt track, with Danzig Connection finishing ahead of the competition. source: espn.com
08 Jun Boston Celtics win 16th NBA Championship: On June 8, 1986, the Boston Celtics secured their 16th NBA championship by defeating the Houston Rockets 114-97 in Game 6 of the NBA Finals. Larry Bird led the team with a triple-double performance, recording 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 12 assists. This victory marked the Celtics' third title in the 1980s and was their last championship until 2008. source: en.wikipedia.org
10 Jun A. Bartlett Giamatti named National League president: On June 10, 1986, A. Bartlett Giamatti, then president of Yale University, was appointed as the 12th president of the National League, succeeding Charles 'Chub' Feeney. Giamatti, a lifelong Boston Red Sox fan, emphasized the need to improve the fan experience in ballparks and advocated for strict enforcement of the balk rule. source: upi.com
12 Jun Argentina wins the 1986 FIFA World Cup: Argentina won the 1986 FIFA World Cup held in Mexico, defeating West Germany 3-2 in the final match. This victory marked Argentina's second World Cup title, with Diego Maradona playing a pivotal role throughout the tournament. The final took place on June 29, 1986, at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. source: britannica.com
15 Jun Ray Floyd wins the US Open Golf Championship: Ray Floyd won the US Open Golf Championship on June 15, 1986, held at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in New York. This victory marked Floyd's first US Open title and his fourth major championship overall. He finished the tournament with a score of 284, beating the runner-up by a significant margin. source: usga.org
16 Jun Farhad Reza's birth date: Farhad Reza, a Bangladeshi cricketer, was born on June 16, 1986, in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. source: en.wikipedia.org
18 Jun Don Sutton achieves 300-win milestone in Major League Baseball: On June 18, 1986, Don Sutton became the 14th pitcher in Major League Baseball history to achieve 300 career wins. This milestone was celebrated as a significant achievement in his long and successful career, which spanned over two decades. Sutton's accomplishment solidified his legacy as one of the great pitchers of his era. source: nytimes.com
19 Jun Tragic death of Len Bias due to cocaine overdose: Len Bias, a promising basketball player from the University of Maryland, died on June 19, 1986, from a cocaine overdose just days after being selected second overall in the NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics. His death shocked the sports community and raised awareness about the dangers of drug use, leading to significant changes in drug policies and education in sports. source: ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
20 Jun Tony La Russa dismissed as Chicago White Sox manager: On June 20, 1986, the Chicago White Sox fired manager Tony La Russa after a 26–38 start to the season. La Russa had managed the team since 1979, leading them to an American League West division title in 1983. The decision was made by executive vice president Ken Harrelson, who cited the team's performance as the primary reason for the change. La Russa was replaced by interim manager Doug Rader. source: upi.com
21 Jun Bo Jackson signs with Kansas City Royals: On June 21, 1986, Bo Jackson, the 1985 Heisman Trophy winner, chose to pursue a professional baseball career by signing with the Kansas City Royals, despite being the first overall pick in the 1986 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Jackson's decision to play baseball over football was a significant moment in sports history. source: foxnews.com
22 Jun Maradona's legendary World Cup performance against England: On June 22, 1986, Diego Maradona delivered one of the most iconic performances in World Cup history during the quarterfinal match against England. He scored two of the most famous goals in football: the controversial 'Hand of God' goal and the stunning solo effort known as the 'Goal of the Century.' This match solidified Maradona's status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. source: bbc.com
23 Jun Pablo Morales sets 100m butterfly world record: On June 23, 1986, American swimmer Pablo Morales set a world record in the 100-meter butterfly with a time of 52.84 seconds during the U.S. Swimming World Championship Trials in Orlando, Florida. This performance reclaimed the world record he had previously lost to West Germany's Michael Gross during the 1984 Olympics. source: latimes.com
25 Jun Steve Carlton released by the Philadelphia Phillies: On June 25, 1986, the Philadelphia Phillies released pitcher Steve Carlton, a four-time Cy Young Award winner, after he refused to retire. At 41, Carlton had a 4-8 record with a 6.18 ERA that season. Despite discussions about retirement, he convinced the team he still wanted to pitch. However, after a poor performance in his last start, the Phillies decided to release him. Carlton expressed gratitude to the team and fans for their support over the years. source: upi.com
27 Jun Baseball Record: Four Stolen Base Attempts in One Game: Robby Thompson of the San Francisco Giants set a unique baseball record by being caught stealing bases four times in a single game, highlighting an unusual statistical achievement.
29 Jun Argentina wins the 1986 FIFA World Cup: Argentina won the 1986 FIFA World Cup held in Mexico, defeating West Germany 3-2 in the final match. This victory marked Argentina's second World Cup title, with Diego Maradona playing a pivotal role throughout the tournament. The final took place at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, and Maradona's performances were widely celebrated, solidifying his legacy in football history. source: britannica.com
02 Jul Roger Clemens Suffers First Loss: Baseball pitcher Roger Clemens experienced his first loss of the year after an impressive streak of 14 consecutive wins, marking a notable moment in his professional career.
05 Jul Martina Navratilova wins 1986 Wimbledon Women's Singles Championship: On July 5, 1986, Martina Navratilova defeated Hana Mandlíková 7–6^(7–1), 6–3 in the final to claim her seventh Wimbledon singles title. This victory marked her fourth consecutive Wimbledon championship and 14th major singles title overall. source: reuters.com
06 Jul Davis Phinney wins historic Tour de France stage: On July 6, 1986, Davis Phinney made history by becoming the first American to win a stage in the Tour de France. His victory was celebrated as a significant achievement for American cycling and inspired many future cyclists. Phinney's win marked a turning point in the sport's popularity in the U.S. source: cyclingnews.com
07 Jul Jackie Joyner-Kersee sets world heptathlon record: On July 7, 1986, at the Goodwill Games in Moscow, Jackie Joyner-Kersee set a new world record in the heptathlon with a score of 7,148 points, surpassing the previous record by 202 points. This achievement made her the first woman to score over 7,000 points in the heptathlon. source: sporting-heroes.net
08 Jul Zimbabwe Wins ICC Trophy: Zimbabwe's national cricket team secured a decisive victory against the Netherlands, winning the ICC Trophy by 25 runs and marking a significant moment in their international cricket history.
09 Jul Padres trade pitcher Tim Stoddard to Yankees for pitcher Ed Whitson: On July 9, 1986, the San Diego Padres traded pitcher Tim Stoddard to the New York Yankees in exchange for pitcher Ed Whitson. This move was part of the Padres' efforts to bolster their pitching staff, as Whitson had been struggling in New York, facing significant fan criticism. The trade aimed to provide both teams with pitchers better suited to their respective environments. source: latimes.com
11 Jul Ingrid Kristiansen sets 10,000m world record in 1986: On July 11, 1986, Norwegian long-distance runner Ingrid Kristiansen set a world record in the women's 10,000 meters with a time of 29:47.36 at a meet in Oslo, Norway. This record stood for many years and is considered one of the significant achievements in women's athletics. source: bbc.com
13 Jul Zola Budd and Annette Cowley banned from Commonwealth Games: On July 13, 1986, Commonwealth Games officials in London ruled that South African-born athletes Zola Budd and Annette Cowley could not participate in the upcoming Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh, Scotland. This decision was made due to their South African origins, amid a broader boycott by several African nations protesting Britain's refusal to impose sanctions on apartheid-era South Africa. source: bbc.com
15 Jul Boris Becker defends Wimbledon title: On July 15, 1986, German tennis player Boris Becker successfully defended his Wimbledon singles title, defeating Kevin Curren in the final. This victory made Becker the youngest male player to win Wimbledon at that time. source: wimbledon.com
18 Jul Greg Norman Wins 115th British Golf Open: Greg Norman won the 115th British Golf Open at Turnberry, Scotland, shooting an impressive total score of 280 for the tournament.
19 Jul Tim Witherspoon defeats Frank Bruno to retain WBA heavyweight title: On July 19, 1986, Tim Witherspoon successfully defended his WBA heavyweight title by defeating Frank Bruno via technical knockout in the 11th round at Wembley Stadium in London. Witherspoon was ahead on the scorecards at the time of the stoppage, with scores of 99-96, 98-96, and 97-94. This victory marked the fourth installment of Don King's Heavyweight World Series. source: upi.com
20 Jul Jane Geddes wins Boston Five Classic after U.S. Women's Open victory: On July 20, 1986, Jane Geddes secured her second consecutive LPGA Tour victory by winning the Boston Five Classic. She birdied three of the last five holes, including the 17th and 18th, to finish one stroke ahead of rookie Deb Richard. Geddes had previously won the U.S. Women's Open on July 14, 1986, defeating Sally Little in an 18-hole playoff. source: upi.com
24 Jul 13th Commonwealth Games begin in Edinburgh: The 13th Commonwealth Games commenced in Edinburgh, Scotland, on July 24, 1986. Despite a significant boycott by 32 Commonwealth nations protesting the UK's stance on apartheid-era South Africa, the Games proceeded with 27 participating countries. The opening ceremony was held at Meadowbank Stadium, featuring 1,660 athletes competing in 161 events across 10 sports. source: commonwealthsport.com
27 Jul Greg LeMond becomes first American to win Tour de France: On July 27, 1986, Greg LeMond became the first American to win the Tour de France, finishing 3 minutes and 10 seconds ahead of his teammate Bernard Hinault. The 25-year-old Californian completed the 2,541-mile race, marking the first time since 1980 that a Frenchman did not win the event. source: upi.com
29 Jul USFL wins antitrust lawsuit against NFL but awarded only $1 in damages: On July 29, 1986, a federal jury found the National Football League (NFL) guilty of monopolizing professional football, harming the United States Football League (USFL). Despite this, the jury awarded the USFL only $1 in damages, which was tripled to $3 under antitrust law. This minimal award led the USFL to suspend operations, and the league ceased to exist shortly thereafter. source: washingtonpost.com
01 Aug Bert Blyleven reaches 3,000 strikeouts milestone: On August 1, 1986, Bert Blyleven became the 10th pitcher in Major League Baseball history to record 3,000 career strikeouts. Pitching for the Minnesota Twins against the Oakland Athletics, Blyleven achieved this milestone by striking out Mike Davis in the fifth inning. He finished the game with a career-high 15 strikeouts, leading the Twins to a 10-1 victory. Additionally, teammate Kirby Puckett hit for the cycle in the same game. source: mlb.com
02 Aug Curtis Cup Historic Victory: Great Britain & Ireland women's golf team achieves a significant victory, defeating the United States 13-5 on American soil for the first time in the prestigious Curtis Cup competition.
03 Aug 1986 Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: On August 3, 1986, the Baseball Hall of Fame inducted three new members: first baseman Willie McCovey, second baseman Bobby Doerr, and catcher Ernie Lombardi. McCovey was elected by the Baseball Writers' Association of America (BBWAA), while Doerr and Lombardi were selected by the Veterans Committee. The ceremony took place in Cooperstown, New York, with Commissioner Peter Ueberroth and former Commissioners Bowie Kuhn and Happy Chandler in attendance. source: en.wikipedia.org
04 Aug USFL suspends operations: On August 4, 1986, the United States Football League (USFL) announced the suspension of its operations. This marked a significant moment in the history of American football, impacting many players and fans. source: nytimes.com
05 Aug Steve Carlton records his 4,000th career strikeout: On August 5, 1986, pitcher Steve Carlton became the second player in Major League Baseball history to reach 4,000 career strikeouts, achieving this milestone by striking out Eric Davis of the Cincinnati Reds during a game at Candlestick Park in San Francisco. Despite this achievement, the San Francisco Giants lost the game 11-6 to the Reds. source: mlb.com
06 Aug Bryan Young - Canadian Ice Hockey Player: Bryan Young was a professional Canadian ice hockey player active in 1986.
10 Aug Betsy King wins Henredon Classic: On August 10, 1986, Betsy King secured her sixth LPGA Tour victory at the Henredon Classic in High Point, North Carolina, defeating JoAnne Carner in a playoff. source: latimes.com
11 Aug Bob Tway wins 68th PGA Championship: Bob Tway secured his only major championship victory at the 1986 PGA Championship, held at Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio. He clinched the title with a birdie on the 72nd hole, a bunker shot that led to a two-stroke win over Greg Norman. This victory was part of a remarkable season for Tway, who also won three other PGA Tour events that year. source: upi.com
12 Aug Don Baylor sets American League record for being hit by pitch: On August 12, 1986, Don Baylor of the Boston Red Sox was hit by a pitch for the 25th time that season, setting a new American League record. The pitch was delivered by Kansas City's Bud Black during a 6–5 victory for the Royals. Baylor would finish the season with 35 hit-by-pitches, a modern major league record at the time. source: en.wikipedia.org
17 Aug LPGA Championship Win: Pat Bradley secures victory at the LPGA Nestle World Golf Championship
18 Aug Earl Campbell retires from NFL at age 31: Earl Campbell, the renowned running back, announced his retirement from professional football on August 18, 1986, at the age of 31. After nine seasons in the NFL, Campbell concluded his career with 9,407 rushing yards and 74 touchdowns. His decision to retire was influenced by the physical toll the game had taken on his body, leading him to prioritize his health and family over continuing his playing career. source: latimes.com
20 Aug Baseball Game Highlights: During a baseball game, Don Carmen of the Philadelphia Phillies had a perfect game bid interrupted in the 9th inning, creating a moment of sporting drama.
21 Aug Red Sox Player's Remarkable Performance: Boston Red Sox player Spike Owens achieved a rare baseball feat by scoring six runs in a single game, contributing to a massive 24-5 victory over the Cleveland Indians. This performance was particularly notable as it was the first time in 40 years a player had accomplished such a scoring milestone.
24 Aug Juli Inkster wins Atlantic City LPGA Classic: Juli Inkster secured her eighth LPGA Tour victory at the inaugural Atlantic City LPGA Classic on August 24, 1986. She finished three strokes ahead of runner-up Patti Rizzo, with a winning score of 209 (−4). source: en.wikipedia.org
25 Aug Mark McGwire hits first Major League home run: On August 25, 1986, Oakland Athletics rookie Mark McGwire hit his first Major League home run off Detroit Tigers pitcher Walt Terrell in the fifth inning of an 8-4 victory at Tiger Stadium. This home run marked the beginning of McGwire's prolific career, during which he would go on to hit 583 home runs over 16 seasons. source: mlb.com
26 Aug Rosa Mota wins European Marathon Championship in Stuttgart: On August 26, 1986, Rosa Mota of Portugal secured the gold medal in the women's marathon at the European Athletics Championships in Stuttgart, Germany, with a time of 2:28:38. This victory marked her second consecutive European title in the marathon, having previously won in 1982. Mota's performance in Stuttgart further solidified her reputation as one of the premier marathon runners of her era. source: european-athletics.com
28 Aug Record-Breaking Wrestling Event in Toronto: The World Wrestling Federation (WWF) held a massive professional wrestling event at Exhibition Stadium in Toronto, drawing 69,300 fans and setting a new outdoor attendance record for professional wrestling at the time.
29 Aug Heike Drechsler ties world women's 200m record: On August 29, 1986, at the European Athletics Championships in Stuttgart, Heike Drechsler of East Germany equaled the women's 200-meter world record of 21.71 seconds, matching the mark set by her compatriot Marita Koch in 1979. Drechsler's performance was achieved with a headwind of -0.8 m/s, making it one of the fastest times ever recorded by a woman. source: upi.com
30 Aug Gelindo Bordin wins European Athletics Championships marathon in Stuttgart: At the 1986 European Athletics Championships in Stuttgart, Italy's Gelindo Bordin secured the gold medal in the men's marathon with a time of 2:10:54. His compatriot Orlando Pizzolato earned silver, finishing just three seconds behind, while West Germany's Herbert Steffny took bronze with a time of 2:11:30. source: upi.com
01 Sep Betsy King Wins LPGA Rail Charity Golf Classic: Professional golfer Betsy King secured victory at the LPGA Rail Charity Golf Classic, demonstrating her skill and contributing to charitable efforts in professional women's golf.
03 Sep MLB record: Most players in a single game: On September 3, 1986, the Houston Astros and Chicago Cubs set a Major League Baseball record by utilizing 53 players in a single game. The game, which had been suspended after 14 innings the previous day, concluded with the Astros winning 8–7 in the 18th inning, thanks to Billy Hatcher's home run. source: en.wikipedia.org
05 Sep Sean Thomas - English Footballer: Sean Thomas, an English football player, was active during this period.
06 Sep Boxing Match: Michael Spinks vs Steffen Tangstad: Michael Spinks defeated Steffen Tangstad by technical knockout (TKO) in the 4th round for a heavyweight boxing title.
07 Sep Martina Navratilova wins US Open Women's Singles Title: On September 7, 1986, Martina Navratilova defeated Helena Suková 6–3, 6–2 in the final to claim her third US Open singles title and 15th major singles title overall. Navratilova became the first woman in the Open Era to win a major after saving match points en route, having saved three against Steffi Graf in the semifinals. source: usopen.org
13 Sep Bert Blyleven Sets Unique Baseball Record: Veteran MLB pitcher Bert Blyleven set an unusual record by giving up 44 home runs in a single season, a testament to the challenging nature of pitching at the highest level of professional baseball.
14 Sep Walter Payton's 177-yard rushing performance against the Philadelphia Eagles: On September 14, 1986, during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Walter Payton achieved his highest rushing yardage of the 1986 season, recording 177 yards on 34 carries, including a touchdown. This performance contributed to the Chicago Bears' 13-10 overtime victory, improving their season record to 2–0. source: nfl.com
17 Sep Marina Stepanova sets 400m hurdles world record: On September 17, 1986, Soviet athlete Marina Stepanova set a world record in the women's 400-meter hurdles, clocking 52.94 seconds in Tashkent, becoming the first woman to run the event in under 53 seconds. source: guinnessworldrecords.com
19 Sep Joe Cowley pitches no-hitter for White Sox against Angels: On September 19, 1986, Chicago White Sox pitcher Joe Cowley threw a no-hitter against the California Angels at Anaheim Stadium, leading to a 7-1 victory. Despite the no-hitter, Cowley walked seven batters and allowed one earned run, making it an unconventional achievement. This game marked Cowley's last win in Major League Baseball. source: washingtonpost.com
21 Sep Dan Marino's six-touchdown performance against the New York Jets: On September 21, 1986, Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino threw for 448 yards and six touchdowns in a 51-45 overtime loss to the New York Jets. This game featured a combined 96 points and 927 passing yards between Marino and Jets quarterback Ken O'Brien. source: nfl.com
23 Sep Jim Deshaies sets MLB record with 8 consecutive strikeouts to start game: On September 23, 1986, Houston Astros pitcher Jim Deshaies struck out the first eight batters he faced against the Los Angeles Dodgers, setting a Major League Baseball record. He achieved this feat in a 4-0 shutout victory, finishing the game with 10 strikeouts. source: mlb.com
25 Sep Mike Scott's no-hitter clinches NL West title for Astros: On September 25, 1986, Houston Astros pitcher Mike Scott threw a 2-0 no-hitter against the San Francisco Giants at the Astrodome, clinching the National League West division title for the Astros. Scott struck out 13 batters and allowed only three baserunners, becoming the first pitcher in baseball history to throw a no-hitter in a division-clinching game. The Astros secured the win with a solo home run by Denny Walling in the fifth inning and an RBI single by Jose Cruz in the seventh. source: mlb.com
28 Sep Brian Foster sets NCAA record with 18 receptions for 327 yards: On September 28, 1986, University of Rhode Island tight end Brian Foster set an NCAA record by catching 18 passes for 327 yards in a game. This remarkable performance remains a significant achievement in college football history. source: pigskindispatch.sportshistorynetwork.com
29 Sep Mary Lou Retton announces retirement from gymnastics at age 18: On September 29, 1986, at 18, Mary Lou Retton, the first American woman to win the Olympic all-around gold medal in gymnastics, announced her retirement from competitive gymnastics. She expressed a desire to pursue studies in communications at the University of Texas and to remain involved with the sport as a coach and announcer. source: upi.com
02 Oct Dwight Gooden becomes first pitcher to record 200 strikeouts in each of first three MLB seasons: On October 2, 1986, Dwight Gooden of the New York Mets achieved his 200th strikeout of the season, making him the first pitcher in Major League Baseball history to reach 200 strikeouts in each of his first three seasons. This milestone was accomplished during the Mets' 8-2 victory over the Montreal Expos at Olympic Stadium. source: washingtonpost.com
04 Oct Dave Righetti sets MLB saves record: On October 4, 1986, New York Yankees closer Dave Righetti saved both games of a doubleheader against the Boston Red Sox, bringing his season total to 46 saves and setting a new Major League Baseball record. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 45 saves held by Dan Quisenberry and Bruce Sutter. source: latimes.com
08 Oct Mike Scott's dominant pitching performance in 1986 NLCS Game 1: On October 8, 1986, Houston Astros pitcher Mike Scott delivered a remarkable performance in Game 1 of the National League Championship Series against the New York Mets. He pitched a complete game, allowing only five hits and one walk while striking out 14 batters, leading the Astros to a 1-0 victory. The game's only run was a home run by Glenn Davis in the second inning. Scott's performance was so outstanding that he was named the NLCS Most Valuable Player, despite the Astros losing the series in six games. source: mlb.com
09 Oct Gilbert Perreault Scores 500th NHL Goal: Gilbert Perreault of the Buffalo Sabres achieves a significant milestone by becoming the 12th NHL player to score 500 career goals, highlighting his exceptional skill and contribution to professional hockey.
12 Oct California Angels lose Game 5 of ALCS to Boston Red Sox: On October 12, 1986, the California Angels faced the Boston Red Sox in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series. The Red Sox won 7-6 in 11 innings, tying the series at 3-2. The Angels had a 6-3 lead entering the ninth inning but allowed the Red Sox to tie the game, leading to extra innings. The Red Sox secured the win with a run in the 11th inning. source: apnews.com
13 Oct Baseball becomes Olympic medal sport: On October 13, 1986, the International Olympic Committee voted to include baseball as an official Olympic medal sport, starting with the 1992 Summer Games in Barcelona. Previously, baseball had been played as a demonstration sport at the 1984 and 1988 Olympics. The decision was influenced by the success of baseball's demonstration tournaments, particularly the 1984 Los Angeles Games, which attracted over 350,000 spectators. source: wbsc.org
14 Oct IOC decides to stagger Winter and Summer Olympic schedules: On October 14, 1986, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) voted to separate the Winter and Summer Olympic Games, ending a 70-year tradition of holding them in the same year. The decision established that the Winter Games would occur in 1994 and continue every four years thereafter, alternating with the Summer Games. This change required amending the Olympic Charter, which previously mandated that both Games be held in the same year. source: latimes.com
15 Oct New York Mets win National League Championship Series: On October 15, 1986, the New York Mets clinched the National League Championship Series (NLCS) by defeating the Houston Astros 7–6 in a 16-inning Game 6 at the Astrodome. This victory secured the Mets' first NL pennant since 1973, allowing them to advance to the World Series, where they eventually triumphed over the Boston Red Sox. source: baseball-reference.com
16 Oct Reinhold Messner becomes first to climb all 14 eight-thousanders: On October 16, 1986, Italian mountaineer Reinhold Messner reached the summit of Lhotse, completing his ascent of all 14 peaks over 8,000 meters without supplemental oxygen. This achievement marked a significant milestone in mountaineering history. source: en.wikipedia.org
17 Oct Barcelona and Albertville selected to host 1992 Olympic Games: On October 17, 1986, the International Olympic Committee announced that Barcelona, Spain, would host the 1992 Summer Olympics, and Albertville, France, would host the Winter Games. Barcelona secured the Summer Games over five other cities, while Albertville won the Winter Games bid against six competitors. source: washingtonpost.com
18 Oct Boston Red Sox win World Series Game 1 against New York Mets: In the 1986 World Series opener on October 18, the Boston Red Sox defeated the New York Mets 1-0 at Shea Stadium. Red Sox pitcher Bruce Hurst delivered a stellar performance, pitching eight scoreless innings and allowing only four hits. The game's only run came in the seventh inning when Mets second baseman Tim Teufel committed an error, allowing Jim Rice to score from second base. source: baseball-reference.com
25 Oct Mets win World Series with Buckner's infamous error: On October 25, 1986, during Game 6 of the World Series between the New York Mets and the Boston Red Sox, Mets' Mookie Wilson hit a ground ball that rolled through Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner's legs, allowing Ray Knight to score the winning run. This error tied the series at 3-3, leading to a decisive Game 7, which the Mets won to claim their second World Series title. source: history.com
26 Oct Alain Prost wins Formula 1 World Championship: On October 26, 1986, Alain Prost secured his second Formula 1 World Championship at the Mexican Grand Prix. This victory solidified his status as one of the sport's greatest drivers. source: bbc.com
27 Oct New York Mets win 1986 World Series: The New York Mets secured their second World Series title by defeating the Boston Red Sox in Game 7 on October 27, 1986, at Shea Stadium. The Mets overcame a three-run deficit to win 8-5, clinching the series 4-3. The victory was highlighted by a memorable Game 6 comeback, where the Mets rallied from a two-run deficit in the bottom of the 10th inning, despite being one strike away from elimination. The series is also remembered for the infamous error by Red Sox first baseman Bill Buckner in Game 6, which allowed the Mets to tie the game and eventually win the series. source: washingtonpost.com
28 Oct LaMarr Hoyt arrested for drug possession at U.S.-Mexico border: On October 28, 1986, Major League Baseball pitcher LaMarr Hoyt was arrested at the San Ysidro Port of Entry on the U.S.-Mexico border for attempting to import approximately 500 pills, including Valium and propoxyphene, into the United States. Hoyt was subsequently sentenced to 45 days in federal prison and fined $10,050. He was also placed on five years of probation, which included mandatory drug testing. This incident led to his suspension from baseball for the 1987 season. source: latimes.com
29 Oct Kirk Muller sets New Jersey Devils record: On October 29, 1986, Kirk Muller set a New Jersey Devils franchise record by scoring six points in a single game during an 8-6 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins. Muller achieved this by recording three goals and three assists, leading the Devils to their first win in Pittsburgh. This performance remains a notable achievement in the team's history. source: latimes.com
30 Oct Thomas Morgenstern: Austrian ski jumping athlete: Thomas Morgenstern, born on October 30, 1986, in Spittal an der Drau, Austria, is a retired Austrian ski jumper. He is one of the most successful ski jumpers of all time, having won the World Cup overall title twice with 23 individual wins, the Four Hills Tournament and the Nordic Tournament once each, eight World Championship gold medals (one individual, seven team), and three Winter Olympic gold medals (one individual, two team). source: apnews.com
02 Nov Grete Waitz triumphs in NYC Marathon: On November 2, 1986, Grete Waitz won the New York City Marathon, marking her ninth victory in the event. Her performance solidified her legacy as one of the greatest female marathon runners in history. source: nytimes.com
05 Nov Birth of Kasper Schmeichel, Danish footballer: Kasper Schmeichel, a professional Danish footballer, was born on November 5, 1986. He is best known for his time as a goalkeeper for clubs like Leicester City and the Denmark national team. Schmeichel is recognized for his contributions to football, including winning the Premier League with Leicester in 2016. source: bbc.com
06 Nov Alex Ferguson appointed Manchester United manager: On November 6, 1986, Alex Ferguson was appointed as the manager of Manchester United. His tenure lasted until 2013, during which he became one of the most successful managers in football history, leading the club to numerous titles, including 13 Premier League championships and 2 UEFA Champions League trophies. source: bbc.com
09 Nov Pakistan's collapse against West Indies in 2nd Test at Lahore: In the second Test of the 1986–87 series, Pakistan was dismissed for 77 runs in their second innings, leading to an innings and 10 runs defeat by the West Indies at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. source: espncricinfo.com
11 Nov François Trinh-Duc: French rugby player profile: François Trinh-Duc, born on November 11, 1986, in Montpellier, France, is a former French rugby union player who played as a fly-half and center. He began his professional career with Montpellier Hérault Rugby in 2004, making his Top 14 debut against Biarritz Olympique. Trinh-Duc earned 66 caps for the French national team between 2008 and 2018, participating in three Rugby World Cups (2011, 2015, 2019) and contributing to France's Grand Slam victory in the 2010 Six Nations Championship. After leaving Montpellier in 2016, he played for RC Toulon, Racing 92, and Union Bordeaux Bègles before retiring from professional rugby. source: en.wikipedia.org
12 Nov Roger Clemens wins 1986 American League Cy Young Award: Roger Clemens of the Boston Red Sox was unanimously awarded the 1986 American League Cy Young Award, receiving all 28 first-place votes. He led the majors with a 24-4 record, a 2.48 ERA, and 238 strikeouts, becoming the first Red Sox pitcher to win the award since Jim Lonborg in 1967. source: upi.com
15 Nov Birth of Sania Mirza, Indian tennis star: Sania Mirza was born on November 15, 1986, in Mumbai, India. She is a prominent Indian tennis player known for her achievements in both singles and doubles formats. Mirza has won multiple Grand Slam titles and is celebrated for her contributions to Indian sports and women's tennis. source: britannica.com
17 Nov Karmichael Hunt born: Karmichael Neil Matthew Hunt was born on November 17, 1986, in Auckland, New Zealand. He is an Australian professional rugby league coach and former player, known for his versatility in playing rugby league, rugby union, and Australian rules football. Hunt has represented Australia in both rugby codes and is currently the head coach of the Souths Logan Magpies in the Queensland Cup. source: en.wikipedia.org
18 Nov Roger Clemens wins American League MVP award in 1986: Roger Clemens, a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, was awarded the American League Most Valuable Player (MVP) on November 18, 1986. This recognition came after a stellar season in which he led the league in strikeouts and earned run average (ERA), solidifying his status as one of the top pitchers in baseball history. source: baseball-reference.com
19 Nov Mike Schmidt wins National League MVP for third time: On November 19, 1986, Mike Schmidt of the Philadelphia Phillies was named the National League Most Valuable Player for the third time in his career. Schmidt led the league with 37 home runs and 119 RBIs, batting .290. He received 15 first-place votes, surpassing Houston's Glenn Davis and New York's Gary Carter. source: upi.com
22 Nov Mike Tyson becomes youngest heavyweight champion: On November 22, 1986, at 20 years and 145 days old, Mike Tyson defeated Trevor Berbick by technical knockout in the second round to become the youngest heavyweight champion in boxing history. source: history.com
24 Nov Todd Worrell wins National League Rookie of the Year: On November 24, 1986, Todd Worrell, a 27-year-old right-hander for the St. Louis Cardinals, was named the National League Rookie of the Year by the Baseball Writers Association of America. Worrell led the league with 36 saves and posted a 2.08 earned-run average, receiving 23 of 24 first-place votes. source: washingtonpost.com
28 Nov Hilbert van der Duim sets speed skating world record: On November 28, 1986, Dutch speed skater Hilbert van der Duim set an unofficial world hour record by skating 39,492.8 meters in one hour during the opening of the new indoor rink in Heerenveen. source: en.wikipedia.org
30 Nov Hamilton Tiger-Cats win 74th Grey Cup over Edmonton Eskimos: On November 30, 1986, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats defeated the Edmonton Eskimos 39–15 in the 74th Grey Cup at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver. This marked Hamilton's first Grey Cup victory since 1972. Quarterback Mike Kerrigan was named the game's Most Outstanding Player on Offense, defensive end Grover Covington on Defense, and kicker Paul Osbaldiston as the Most Outstanding Canadian. source: en.wikipedia.org
03 Dec Austin Hayes, Irish footballer, dies at 28: Austin Hayes, an English-born footballer of Irish descent, passed away on December 3, 1986, at the age of 28. He played as a left winger for clubs including Southampton, Millwall, and Northampton Town, and earned one cap for the Republic of Ireland national team in 1979. Hayes died from lung cancer, just three weeks after his diagnosis. source: en.wikipedia.org
06 Dec Vinny Testaverde wins 1986 Heisman Trophy: On December 6, 1986, Vinny Testaverde, quarterback for the University of Miami, was awarded the Heisman Trophy, becoming the first player from Miami to receive this honor. He led the Hurricanes to an 11-0 regular season, throwing for 2,557 yards and 26 touchdowns, and was also named the Maxwell Award winner as the nation's best player. source: espn.com
07 Dec LPGA Golf Tournament Win: Juli Inkster and Tom Purtzer won the J.C. Penney Golf Classic, a notable achievement in professional golf for the year.
08 Dec Amir Khan's birth date confirmed: Amir Khan, the British professional boxer and Olympic medalist, was born on December 8, 1986. He gained fame for his achievements in boxing, including winning a silver medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Khan has since become a prominent figure in the sport, known for his speed and skill in the ring. source: bbc.com
10 Dec Dominique Wilkins scores 57 points against Chicago Bulls: On December 10, 1986, Dominique Wilkins of the Atlanta Hawks scored 57 points in a 123-95 victory over the Chicago Bulls. Wilkins also recorded 9 rebounds and 4 assists in the game. source: foxsports.com
12 Dec James 'Bonecrusher' Smith defeats Tim Witherspoon: On December 12, 1986, James 'Bonecrusher' Smith knocked out Tim Witherspoon in the first round at Madison Square Garden, winning the WBA heavyweight title. Smith, who took the fight on short notice, knocked Witherspoon down three times in the opening round, leading to a stoppage under the three-knockdown rule. This victory set up a unification bout with WBC champion Mike Tyson in March 1987. source: washingtonpost.com
26 Dec Doug Jarvis sets NHL consecutive games played record: On December 26, 1986, Doug Jarvis played his 915th consecutive NHL game, surpassing Garry Unger's previous record of 914 games. This milestone occurred during a 1-1 tie between the Hartford Whalers and the Montreal Canadiens, the team where Jarvis began his career. He continued his streak, ultimately playing 964 consecutive games before retiring in 1987. source: nhl.com
28 Dec Australia defeats Sweden in 75th Davis Cup Final: On December 28, 1986, Australia clinched their 26th Davis Cup title by defeating Sweden 3-2 in the final held at Kooyong Stadium in Melbourne. Pat Cash secured the decisive point by overcoming Mikael Pernfors in a five-set match. This victory marked Australia's first Davis Cup win since 1983. source: latimes.com

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