Exploring the History of Sports in Waltham, MA

Waltham, Massachusetts is a city steeped in history and culture. From its early settlement to the present day, Waltham has been home to some of the most important sporting events and athletes in American history.

One such event was the Boston Marathon. The first Boston Marathon was held on April 19, 1897, starting from Ashland and finishing at Irvington Street in Boston. While not technically held within Walthams borders, many runners trained along the towns picturesque paths and roads.

In addition to running, rowing played a significant role in Walthams sports history. In fact, one of Americas most renowned Olympic rowers grew up right here in Waltham: Harry Parker. Parker competed for Harvard University before coaching their mens crew team for over 50 years.

Another historic moment occurred when Babe Ruth hit his very first professional home run while playing baseball with what is now known as Brandeis University (415 South St., MS013) back in September of 1914.

If ice hockey is more your speed (pun intended), then youll be happy to know that both amateurs and professionals alike have skated on Gore Place Pond since as far back as the late 1800s!

Lastly but certainly not least horse racing has long thrilled audiences throughout Walthams leafy thoroughbred course during much of mid20th century at Meadowbrook Racecourse(1 Burlington St.). For decades it hosted worldclass harnessracing events nearly every week where people could watch jockeys ride thoroughbreds around challenging turns at thrilling speeds! Despite being closed down completely by summerof1991 following rising debts issue between management teams , those drives still remain vivid among local memories .

Overall feeling nostalgic about sport? Then take a stroll through these historic spots scattered throughout beautiful residential neighborhoods of Waltham and enjoy the towns rich sporting history.

Important Locations:

Boston Marathon (from Ashland to Boston)

Brandeis University, 415 South St., MS013

Gore Place Pond

Meadowbrook Racecourse, 1 Burlington St.

Websites/Twitter:

Brandies Athletics: @brandeisjudges

Waltham Recreation Department: walthamma.gov/recreation