George Plimpton Writer/Athlete

George Plimpton Writer/Athlete

The Fighter

Herb Scharfman/SI

The late George Plimpton was the first journalist to see what it was like to play professional sports by participating in them. From boxing with the heavyweight champ to playing goalie with the Boston Bruins, here are his experiences.<br><br>A 1959 exhibition fight with heavyweight champ Archie Moore left Plimpton with a bloody nose.

The Pitcher

Garry Winogrand/SI

Plimpton took the mound at Yankee Stadium in 1958 for the Willie Mays/Mickey Mantle All-Star game.

The Quarterback

Plimpton practiced with the Lions at quarterback in 1963.

The Quarterback

Herb Scharfman/SI

Plimpton with Detroit's Joe Schmidt.

The Guard

Dick Raphael/SI

Plimpton warms up before playing in an exhibition game with the Celtics against the Atlanta Hawks in 1968.

The Driver

AP

Plimpton tried his hand at Indy car driving in 1977.

The Goalie

John Iacono/SI

Plimpton played goalie for the Boston Bruins in 1977.