Back in Time: October 17

Author:
SI Staff
Publish date:
Oct 17, 2008

Back in Time: October 17

Bob Beamon

At the Olympic Games in Mexico City, Bob Beamon sets the world record in the long long with a leap of 29 feet, 2 1/2 inches.

Bay Area Earthquake

As the Giants and A's get ready to play Game 3 of the World Series, the Bay Area is hit by a massive earthquake. The game is quickly postponed by Commissioner Fay Vincent, and he wisely orders the evacuation of Candlestick Park.

Paul Coffey

Pittsburgh Penguin Paul Coffey sets the NHL defenseman scoring record with 1,053 career points (309 goals and 744 assists).

John Smoltz

Led by John Smoltz, the Atlanta Braves beat the Pittsburgh Pirates in seven games to win the NL pennant.

David Justice

David Justice's three-run homer propels the Yankees to their record 37th American League pennant in a come-from-behind victory over the Mariners, 9-7. The victory sets up a Subway Series in New York for the first time in 44 years.

Patrick Roy

Patrick Roy of the Colorado Avalanche achieves his 448th victory as a goalie in the NHL. Roy passed Terry Sawchuck to become the record holder for career victories.