Discover the Vibrant History of Sports in Pomona, CA

If youre a sports lover and want to explore the rich history of sporting events that capture the essence of Pomonas diverse, historic, sunny, eclectic, artistic and innovative people, then you are in for a treat. From baseball games played by local legends to athletic achievements that captivate audiences all over the world; there is no better way to experience the story of this city than through its sports.

First stop on your journey should be The Los Angeles County Fairplex (1101 W McKinley Ave., Pomona). It was here where Americas first drag racing event Winternationals took place more than 50 years ago. This historic race featured famous drivers such as Don Prudhomme and Tom McEwen who battled it out on what would become one of drag racings most iconic strips Auto Club Raceway at Pomona.

Next up is Ganesha High School (1151 Fairplex Dr., Pomona) which boasts an equally impressive track record having produced two legendary athletes: Jackie Robinson and Jim Thorpe. Jackie Robinson became widely recognized as a civil rights activist after breaking Major League Baseballs color barrier while playing for Brooklyn Dodgers back in 1947. Similarly fascinating is Jim Thorpe whose unmatched athletic talents allowed him to take home Olympic gold medals not once but twice!

For those interested in boxing legacy keep tabs on the Fight Boxing Gym owned by Sean Garcia located within La Verne Athletic Complex (3105 D St.,La Verne). Homegrown champions from Southern California including Oscar De La Hoya started training here before taking their talent nationwide.

Last stop on our list is Ayala Park Soccer Fields (14225 Central Avenue Chino), home ground for Chivas USA until 2014 when Major league Soccer team announced they were disbanding their Bside teams leaving behind countless memories cherished by local fans. Ayala Park is still a favorite meeting spot for soccer enthusiasts to play pickup games and tournaments.

Lastly, In honor of the 150th anniversary of Pomona Colleges founding in 1887, students established Intercollegiate Athletic Association (IAA) inviting nearby institutions such as ClaremontMuddScripps Colleges to compete against one another on campus grounds.

Each location provides an opportunity not just to discover some littleknown sports history but also delve into the communities and individuals that make them unique. So go ahead! Get outside and explore it yourself!

Websites:

Los Angeles County Fairplex: https://fairplex.com/

Ganesha High School: https://ganeshahslausdca.schoolloop.com/

La Verne Athletic Complex: http://www.ci.laverne.ca.us/residents/parksfacilities/athleticcomplex

Ayala Park Soccer Fields: https://www.chinohills.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/AyalaPark34

Intercollegiate Athletic Association :https://www.pomona.edu/about/historyandtraditions/iaa