Discover the Historic Side of Sports in Ormond Beach, FL

Ormond Beach, FL may be known for its sunny beaches and relaxed lifestyle, but its also a destination rich with history particularly when it comes to sports. From cycling races that drew crowds from around the world to baseball games played by famous players, theres plenty to explore for sports fans who are interested in discovering the past.

One mustsee spot is The Casements (25 Riverside Dr., Ormond Beach), which was once owned by John D. Rockefeller and now serves as a community center. This historic home hosted some of Americas earliest auto races on the beachfront outside its doors. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about everything from legendary driver Sir Malcolm Campbells land speed record attempt to early NASCAR races.

Another gem worth checking out is Jackie Robinson Ballpark (105 E Orange Ave., Daytona Beach), located just south of Ormond Beach in neighboring Daytona Beach. Built in 1914, this park has been home to minor league baseball teams throughout its history including hosting spring training games featuring Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig back in 1934.

But perhaps most uniquely, it was here at this ballpark where Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseballs color barrier during an exhibition game while he was still playing with a minor league team based out of Brooklyn. Today youll find a museum honoring Robinson inside the stadium along with tributes commemorating his legacy scattered around town.

In nearby DeLand (a half hour drive southwest) lies Stetson Universitys Edmunds Center (143 E Pennsylvania Ave.), which opened as part of Stetson Universitys athletic facilities back in 1974 but had ties dating back further than that. There were bicycle racing events held at Stetson Field between 1887 and 1895.

However smallscale these bike races might have seemed compared to later events they helped put Florida on the map as a destination for sports enthusiasts to gather and compete. The city also hosts an annual bike race, which follows some of these early routes filled with hairpin turns and treacherous terrain.

Overall, Ormond Beachs history is a testament to how sports have played an important role in shaping the areas identity. Visitors should make time to explore each of these sites not just for their historical significance but because they also capture the charm and allure that draws so many people to this coastal community.

Websites:

https://www.ormondhistory.org/thecasements/

https://www.milb.com/daytona/ballpark

http://stetson.edu/administration/facilities/edmundscenter.php

Twitter:

The Casements @thecasements

Jackie Robinson Ballpark @JackieRobinsonBP

Stetson University Athletics @StetsonU_SAAC