Exploring the Historic Roots of Sports in Charming Middletown, OH

Middletown, Ohio may not be a big city or have professional sports teams like Cincinnati or Cleveland, but it has its fair share of rich sporting history. From baseball games to horse races and everything in between, locals take pride in their athletic heritage.

One mustvisit spot is Barnitz Stadium (1219 S Main St), where Babe Ruth and his New York Yankees played an exhibition game against local semipros on May 12th, 1934. The stadium still stands today as a symbol of Middletowns connection to one of baseballs greatest legends. Another historical location is the Smith Park tennis courts (500 Tytus Ave), which hosted the National Clay Court Tennis Championship for several years during the early 1900s.

If youre looking for something more offbeat yet educational, head over to Verity Middle School (1900 Verity Pkwy) to check out an antique bike race that takes place every summer. This annual event celebrates the pioneers who turned bicycles into highspeed machines and paved the way for modern cycling technology.

For those seeking a more thrilling experience, there are plenty of roller derby matches happening around town throughout the year at various venues such as Little Miami Brewing Company (208 Mill St). Roller derby started to gain popularity back in 1948 when Roller Derby Queen Ann Calvello became one of its most famous athletes.

Finally, dont forget about harness racing! Lebanon Raceway & Expo Center (665 N Broadway Street), located just outside Middletown limits hosts significant friendly competitions regularly alongside other county fairs events including rodeos and truck pulls. Harness racing has deep roots within Butler County thanks to renowned drivers like Billy Haughton who won numerous titles here from late forties till midsixties.

These authentic sports events and locations serve as a reflection of the communitys culture, history, and traditions. They are an excellent way for visitors to immerse themselves in the charming little town of Middletown while learning about its fascinating past.

Websites:

https://www.middletownohiohistory.org/

https://lebanonraceway.com

http://littlemiamibrewing.com/

Twitter:

@middletown_oh

@LebanonRaceway

@LMBrewCo