August 3, 1852 – It was the first American intercollegiate sporting event that had ever taken place. The Harvard heavyweight rowing crew competed against their rivals Yale on Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire. Harvard triumphed by 2 lengths in over 2 miles over the Eli rowing group.
This started the competitive athletic rivalry between the two Eastern Universities. Most famously the football rivalry between the schools dates back to 1875 and is the second-oldest rivalry in college football, but as we see these two were rivals long before that.
To find more great daily sports history make sure to check out the Sports Jersey Dispatch and Pigskin Dispatch.
More From Sports History Network
History of NBA Team Nicknames: Atlantic Division
I love the history of sports team nicknames. Today I am sharing some of
Charlotte Hornets’ Arena History: From the Charlotte Coliseum to the Spectrum Center
The journey of the Charlotte Hornets’ arenas is a fascinating tale of evolution, innovation,
1964 Buffalo Bills (Best Team in AFL History?)
I began watching Pro Football in 1969, probably sooner, since my father and older
Curse Reversed. Looking Back at the 2004 Red Sox
For many Red Sox fans, it will feel like yesterday. But even for neutrals,
The History of the Preakness Stakes: Where It All Began
This May 17, 2025, the Preakness Stakes will draw horse racing fans worldwide for
The Forgotten Games, Sports, and Leisure in Ancient Civilizations
The annals of history are not merely confined to tales of wars, conquests, and
Top 5 NFL Teams of the 2010s
We hope this doesn’t spoil any surprises, but the 2017 Cleveland Browns will not be featured on
Debunking Commonly Believed Sports Betting Myths
Like casino gambling and slot games, sports betting has largely become an online business.