1935. The Great Depression. Detroit is ranked as the hardest hit city in America. Speramus Meliora Resurgent Cineribus Akin to a miracle something incredible began to happen. Detroit began to win in a way that had never been seen before...or since. The Tigers, Lions and Red Wings all won their first Championships. An unknown Joe Louis would rise to international super stardom. Speed boat racing, tennis, track and field, golf, bowling, swimming, firearms...champions all and all from Detroit. In this calendar year the city could claim 33 national championships. A celebration followed that has no equal in the annals of American sport. Holidays were declared, a plaque was signed by the president as well as every governor in the country recognizing Detroit as THE City of Champions... ...and then...the story was forgotten. What happened in 1935? How did it happen? Why was it forgotten? Why should we care? These topics and many more will be explored by veteran radio host Jamie Flanagan and Author Charles Avison in this series of shows: Detroit City of Champions.
Send us a Text Message.Ever wondered how a single year could define a city's sports legacy? Join us as we revisit the exhilarating year of 1935 when Detroit's Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings each clinched their first championships, earning the city the moniker "City of Champions." We'll also marvel at the incredible rise of Joe Lewis during this golden era. From historical victories to personal anecdotes, we'll discuss the joy of experiencing live sports, as showcased by a memorable birthday spent at a Tigers game, proving that the love for the game transcends knowledge.Our narrative takes you through the inspiring story of three Detroit teams achieving their first championships in one breathtaking season. We shine a spotlight on the often overlooked athletes and historical moments that contributed to this spectacular achievement, like Eddie Tolan's influence. As we express our gratitude for your continued support and engagement, we look forward to delving into the Detroit Tigers' storied past, culminating in the celebration of Champions Day on April 18th. And don't miss our thrilling plans to possibly bring the Stanley Cup to mark the 90th anniversary of these remarkable victories.Imagine gathering all the major sports trophies Detroit has ever won under one roof! We discuss our ambitious plan to do just that, exploring the logistics and challenges of coordinating with museums and securing venues like the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club. From the Harmsworth Trophy to the 1935 Stanley Cup band, we'll cover it all. Along the way, we share unique baseball stories, such as Del Baker's influence on Schoolboy Rowe and Hank Greenberg's transformation into a defensive powerhouse. Relive the days when young stars sweated it out in Beaumont, Texas, and discover how their journeys intertwined with the legacy that defines Detroit sports.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Send us a Text Message.Step into the golden era of Detroit sports with us as Jamie Flanagan and Charles Avison unveil the meticulous research and dedication that brought the legendary athletes of 1935 back to life. Journey through time as Charles recounts his thrilling discoveries of rare memorabilia and the painstaking effort he put into piecing together old newspapers, matchbooks, and game programs. You'll be captivated by the stories of fan interactions and the undervaluation of treasured sports artifacts.In this episode, we delve into Bob Coleman's crucial role in the Detroit Tigers' minor league system. Despite initial skepticism, our exhaustive research uncovers Coleman's significant contributions, from his management of the Evansville Hubs to his lifelong dedication to minor league baseball, which earned him the all-time record for minor league wins. We also spotlight the pivotal decisions and figures like Jack Zeller and Del Baker, who shaped the Tigers' success in the early 1930s, illustrating how a deep understanding of a franchise's history can guide its future triumphs.We wrap things up with a nostalgic look at the legacy of Tiger Stadium, the cultural impact of the old English D, and amusing anecdotes about fans bringing actual geese to games. From personal stories about tattoos symbolizing Detroit pride to the transformation of the old Tiger Stadium, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to the vibrant fan culture and historical significance that define Detroit's sports legacy. Join us in appreciating the past and drawing inspiration for the future as we celebrate the stories and fans that make Detroit sports legendary.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Send us a Text Message.What if a city could be crowned the "City of Champions" in a single year? Travel back to Detroit in 1935, a pivotal moment when the Tigers, Lions, Red Wings, and the legendary Joe Louis collectively put the city on the sports map. In this episode, we uncover the recruitment strategies that shaped the Detroit Tigers and contrast their resilience against the backdrop of failing local football teams. We'll reveal the intriguing business tactics of the 1880s team owners who wielded baseball as a tool to sell beer, offering a colorful glimpse into the early days of America's pastime.Discover the fascinating stories behind Detroit's rise as a sports powerhouse, particularly through the lens of scouts like Jack Zeller. We discuss the term "ivory hunters" from the 1800s, likening the relentless search for raw talent to hunting elephants for ivory. Zeller's influence was instrumental in molding the 1935 Detroit Tigers into a championship team, embedding the Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings deeply into Detroit's cultural identity. This segment explores how these teams have remained essential parts of the city's soul, while others have faded away.Lastly, we reflect on the current state of baseball, making stark comparisons between the affiliate minor league and independent teams. Our conversation highlights the peculiar landscape of modern baseball, where marketing antics often overshadow the competitive nature of the sport. Dive deep into the legacy of Jack Zeller, his career trajectory, and the significant scandal that shook the Detroit Tigers, all while celebrating Detroit's enduring sports achievements. Join the dialogue, share your thoughts, and help us keep the vibrant history of Detroit sports alive!https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Send us a Text Message.What if the scouting strategies of the 1930s are the secret to modern baseball success? Join us as we journey through the foundational era of the Detroit Tigers, where the Mississippi River became a strategic dividing line for talent acquisition. We'll uncover how Bob Coleman and Del Baker's pivotal roles in the early minor league system laid the groundwork for the 1935 championship team, offering compelling comparisons to today's practices.Celebrate the legacy of legendary scout Eddie Goosetree, whose astute eye for talent brought future stars like Schoolboy Rowe and Virgil Trucks to the Tigers. Hear the captivating stories of Goosetree's signings, including the Walker brothers, and the serendipitous moments that made baseball history. Discover how Goosetree's dedication and savvy scouting techniques shaped the Tigers' success and left an indelible mark on the sport.Ever wondered about the adventures and ethical dilemmas of early baseball scouts? We take you on a nostalgic ride through the colorful world of talent recruitment, sharing tales from Goosetree's escapades and the fierce rivalries with other scouts. We'll also explore the evolution of newspaper reporting in Detroit, capturing the vibrant and competitive nature of the industry that brought sports news to life. Join us for a thrilling episode packed with intriguing stories and rich history, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and share our passion with a friend!https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
What if you could walk through Detroit's most glorious sports memories and meet the legends who lived them? This episode takes you on a nostalgic journey back to 1935, the year Detroit earned the title "City of Champions" with victories from the Lions, Tigers, Red Wings, and the meteoric rise of Joe Louis in boxing. Fast forward to the recent Champions Day 2024 celebration at the Detroit Historical Museum, where we share highlights from the event and our lively interactions with fellow enthusiasts of Detroit's rich sports history. From 1950s and 60s wrestling to the inspiring legacy of Eddie Tolan, we cover the storied past that makes Detroit a true sports haven.Picture yourself at a handprint ceremony with Detroit celebrities like Hugh Perkins, Mickey Redmond, and Greg Kelser. Due to an unexpected delay, I found myself interviewing these icons, leading to some unforgettable conversations. The most touching moment came when Hugh Perkins relived his experience of interviewing Rosa Parks, adding a deeply personal and emotional layer to the event. This chapter captures the sense of community spirit and the behind-the-scenes challenges that turn public events into memorable experiences.Our exploration doesn't stop there; we delve into the evolution of baseball scouting and player development from the early 1900s to present-day. Highlighting figures like Branch Rickey, Sam Breadon, and Wish Egan, we discuss the transformation of the minor league system and the delayed integration of African-American players in Major League Baseball. We also explore the offerings of Detroitcityofchampions.com, including unique merchandise and handcrafted plaster busts, pondering the potential for expanding our product lineup. Join us as we navigate through these captivating stories and rich histories that define Detroit's illustrious sports legacy.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
What if one year could define an entire city's sports legacy? Travel back with us to 1935, a year when Detroit was crowned the "City of Champions," and discover how the Lions, Tigers, Red Wings, and boxing phenom Joe Louis made an indelible mark on sports history. We'll unpack the rich interconnections between Detroit and Portsmouth, and delve into the cultural phenomenon of Opening Day in Detroit, a citywide celebration that still resonates with fans today.Ever heard of the Detroit Diamonds? This early NBA team, which would later become the renowned Los Angeles Lakers, has a fascinating origin story. From their humble beginnings, through a transformative draft pick in George Mikan, to their eventual rise as a basketball powerhouse, we'll map out their incredible journey. We also spotlight the Fort Wayne Pistons' relocation to Detroit, their championship successes, and draw parallels to the potential-packed current roster.Baseball scouting and development have a storied history, and we unveil how pioneers like Branch Rickey and scouts like Billy Doyle revolutionized the game. Explore the evolution of the minor league system, the Yankees and Tigers' integration of this structure, and the meticulous talent-spotting methods that have shaped baseball. With personal anecdotes and rare discoveries, we'll paint a vivid picture of how scouting has transformed from an intuitive art to a sophisticated science, forever in pursuit of the next major league star. Join us for an episode filled with rich history, legendary sports figures, and the enduring spirit of Detroit.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Dan Campbell's decisions in the NFC Championship game - Exploring the historical precedent for success - Episode 109How Dan Campbell's style reminds us of the story of Gerald "Gee" WalkerAs was said in 1933 of Gee, '... we want the wild mustang of the range, no one wins the race with old dobbin.'An amazing passage attributed to Aidan HutchinsonYou won't find tears in Detroit. If you want excuses, you won't hear them coming from Ford Field. As hard as today's loss was, it is not a definition of the Detroit Lions culture. It's a testament to how far we have come and how far we can go. It is the city's perseverance of hard working people is what makes this state great. A city born in steel, diesel, and blood will not let a moment like this hold them back. In a city like this, in a culture like this, you learn that failure is just an opportunity to improve. A moment that Michigan men don't shy away from. You take a look at those college boys down the road, it took them a couple trips to hell & disappointment, all to bring glory back to Michigan. Greatness is a journey - not a light switch, and it may take a few more days in the dark to see the light, but the Lions will get there. Together, we will Restore The Roar. Romans 5:3-4 says: "Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame."https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
The Forgotten Champions Episode 108: NBC lists the wrong year of the Lions first ChampionshipDid you know? The Lions won their first Championship in 1935 and NOT 1932! Jamie and Charles explore this major error of historical inaccuracy presented by NBC during the Lions vs Buccaneers playoff game.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 107: The Other Champions of 1935: Newell Banks - CheckersShould there ever be any debate about Detroit's claim to “The Greatest Season in American Sport history,” one need only point to the 33rd championship: Newell Banks, the 1935 checkers champion was from Detroit!https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 106: The Other Champions of 1935: Azucar and the first Santa Anita HandicapWhile the name Seabiscuit is synonymous with horse racing in the 1930's, there was another who rose to the greatest height on the largest stage: Azucar.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 105: The Other Champions of 1935: Stanley Kratkowski & Joanna De Tuscan“From a room full of sweet mamas and papas to a lunatic asylum…” The stories of Stanley Kratkowski and Joanna De Tuscan are presented alongside a unique insight into the 1936 Berlin Olympics.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 104: The Other Champions of 1935: Gar Wood Jr.Gar Wood, the King of Speed on Water. In today's episode Jamie and Charles explore the story of the crown prince: Gar Wood Jr.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 103: The Other Champions of 1935: Jimmy Gilhula, Tom Haynie and the D.A.C. Swim TeamOn the first weekend of July, 1935, Detroit swimmers would add three more national amateur championships to the city's crowded victory mantle.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 102: The Other Champions of 1935: Jake AnkromThe parade of Champions continues with the exploration of Jake Ankrom, winner of the 1935 National Amateur Three-Cushion Billiards Championship.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 101: The Other Champions of 1935: Bill BonthronJamie and Charles broadcast on location from the Emperor's throne room on the Death Star and investigate one of the great untold stories of 1935: Bill Bonthron's 1500 meter world record.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 100: The Other Champions of 1935: Herbert MendelsonEpisode #100! Jamie and Charles reflect on the 99 previous episodes and find a little time to explore Herbert Mendelson, winner of the 1935 President's Cup race.Thanks to everyone who has joined us live or on the feed. Thanks to everyone who has commented on the video and audio tracks.200 here we come.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 99: The Other Champions of 1935: Dixie Oils Softball TeamAmong the most overlooked Champions of 1935 are the Dixie Oils softball team. Jamie and Charles explore their story as well the history of softball itself.Some of the sources we used for the history of softball:https://nfca.org/easyblog/womens-history-month-great-time-to-reflect-on-softballs-rich-historyhttps://www.flosoftball.com/articles/6750269-the-history-of-softball-how-did-it-all-get-startedhttps://www.athleticscholarships.net/history-of-softball.htmhttps://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
The Other Champions of 1935: Golden Glovers - Episode 98While Joe Louis garnered the professional boxing headlines in 1935 there were other Detroit pugilists who would claim championships in the amateur ranks. Jamie and Charles explore their stories as well as the story of Stanley Evans, the last man to defeat Joe Louis before his rise.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 97: The Other Champions of 1935: Stroh's Bowling Team (Part 2)Few teams have ever had an impact on their sport like that of Stroh's Bowling. In today's episode Jamie and Charles explore this forgotten juggernaut and their “star of stars,” Joe Norris.Some of the sites we refrenced:https://sportsplanningguide.com/seven-bowling-alleys-at-the-top-of-their-game/https://www.oldest.org/sports/bowling-alleys-us/https://www.oaklanesbowlingcenter.com/metro-detroit-is-the-bowling-capital-of-the-world.htmlhttps://www.nytimes.com/2001/02/21/sports/joe-norris-bowler-93.htmlhttps://bowl.com/usbc-hall-of-fame/hall-of-famers/joe-norrishttps://www.freep.com/story/entertainment/television/2020/03/26/detroit-radio-legend-bowling-dollars-host-bob-allison-dies/2914618001/https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 96: The Other Champions of 1935: Stroh's Bowling Team (Part 1)Stroh's Brewery is synonymous with Detroit itself. In today's episode Jamie and Charles explore the history of the legendary company.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 95: The Other Champions of 1935: Raquet Sports - Walter Kramer, Constance O'Donovan, Esther PolitzerContinuing the tour through Detroit's pantheon of Champions in 1935; Jamie and Charles explore the titles won in tennis and badminton.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 94: Champions Day - 87th Anniversary & Visual Tour of the 1st Champions DayThe only known Champions Day newspaper makes its internet debut for the 87th anniversary of the day it was printed to celebrate.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 93: Special Guest - Tom Eurich Iron Man Game Poster Show and TellTom Eurich and Randy Trombley stop by to show off a new poster created by the Helmar Brewing Company.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 92: The Other Champions of 1935: Firearms - Detroit Police and Henry B. Joy Jr.In January 1936, Detroit Times Editor, Bud Shaver, wrote a story about five “forgotten champions” of 1935. In today's episode Jamie and Charles discuss these marksmen and the role they played as police and in Henry B. Joy's case: high society.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 91: Coat of Arms & Daily Detroit: Special Guests: Christopher Boerma and Jeremiah StaesLongtime contributor, Christopher Boerma, joins us to detail the show's coat-of-arms while Jer Staes is in studio for a conversation about his work at Daily Detroit and preview the upcoming Champions' Day event. https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 90: The Other Champions of 1935: Clark HaskinsThe “Detroit Atlas,” Clark Haskins and the Detroit Police Field Day are explored.Some interesting side stories today. Information and images in the video version from The Detroit News archives and The Library of Congress. A great history of the Detroit Police Department. Marie Owen the first police person in the United States was here in Detroit in 1893.Plus much more on the DPD. Two Detroit Police Officers remembered that lost their lives in 1935;Fredrick BehrendWayne NelsonEddie Tolan's comments from 1935 about the US going to compete in the Olympics in Germany. Pulled from the Library of Congress copies of the Detroit Times. Much more. See the links to the sources below. https://www.detroitnews.com/picture-gallery/news/local/michigan-history/2015/01/30/detroit-police-on-patrol-since-1865/22506585/https://www.odmp.org/officer/1695-police-officer-frederick-w-behrendhttps://www.odmp.org/officer/9900-police-officer-wayne-w-nelsonhttps://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn92063852/1935-12-14/ed-1/seq-1/https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn92063852/1936-07-25/ed-1/seq-1/https://www.detroitpoa.com/dpoa-history/https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 89: The Other Champions of 1935: Dick DegenerThe “Fred Astaire of diving” Dick Degener and the Billy Rose Aquacade are explored.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Black & Blue - The Story of Gerald Ford, Willis Ward and 1934 University of Michigan Football. Our guest today is producer-director Brian Kruger. What is the story behind the now infamous U of M - Georgia Tech game of 1934? What part did Fielding H. Yost play in the events leading up to the benching of Willis Ward for that game and how Gerry Ford almost quit Michigan Football. What did this do to Willis Ward's athletic career?Connect with Brian and see all his work at https://stunt3.com/https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 86: The Other Champions of 1935: Special Episode - Willis WardIn his day Willis Ward was regarded as the greatest athlete ever produced by Detroit. In today's special episode, Jamie and Charles explore the rise of this academic and athletic wunderkind.This is the online exhibit from UofMhttps://exhibits.bentley.umich.edu/s/willisward/page/introductionhttps://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 85: The Other Champions of 1935: Eddie Tolan “The Midnight Express” (Part 2)Although he had ascended the heights of international acclaim, Eddie Tolan's financial well-being had descended to a level of near despair. In today's episode Jamie and Charles explore the ensuing events which led “The Midnight Express” onto the podium of Detroit's 1935 pantheon of Champions.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 84: The Other Champions of 1935: Eddie Tolan “The Midnight Express” (Part 1)The first African American to hold the title of “World's Fastest Man,” Eddie Tolan was an icon in his own day but nearly forgotten in ours. In today's episode Jamie and Charles begin the exploration of Tolan as well as the other champions of 1935.See the video of the photo finish https://youtu.be/5pRIOy3Q7b0https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 83: Special Episode: Portsmouth Spartans - New RevelationsJamie and Charles explore new information from the Jim Kennedy collection regarding the reason for Dutch Clark's absence at the first NFL Championship game. Also presented are two letters from Ox Emerson on the importance of the Portsmouth Spartans when seeking to understand the Detroit Lions 1935 Championship.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Detroit City of Champions – Detroit vs Green Bay the Rivalry Continues with Neal Ruhl- Episode 82Neal Ruhl of Big D Energy at Woodward Sports joins us to discuss the importance of the Detroit Lions - Green Bay Packers coming up to decide a playoff spot. Neal is the voice of the Golden Grizzlies and Detroit City Football Club (DCFC). Jamie and Charles recap the visit to Portsmouth where the Lions (Spartans) - Packers Rivalry was born with the Ironman Game in 1932. https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 81: Special Episode: Portsmouth Spartans “Iron Man Game” - 90th Anniversary CelebrationThe Iron Man Game. In the long history of the NFL perhaps no contest ever played evoked the essence of pro football's soul like that which occurred in Portsmouth, Ohio on December 4th, 1932.Fired by the passion of a blazing feud the City of Portsmouth, its raucous multitude of fans and only eleven select players would stand in the path of the Green Bay Packers pursuit of a fourth straight NFL Championship.In today's episode Jamie and Charles are on location in Portsmouth with special guests: Tom Eurich, Dr. Andrew Feight, Will Mault and Randy Yohe to discuss the enduring legacy of a game which was not only legendary in its own day but had profound impacts on the future of the National Football League.“You people, you eleven men, are going to stay in this game. The only way any of you is going to come out is by being carried off in a stretcher.”- Potsy Clark on December 4th, 1932 as remembered by Glenn Presnell in “What a Game They Played”https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 80: Walter HagenPart 15: ConclusionIn today's episode Jamie and Charles explore how Walter Hagen fits into the larger City of Champions story.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 79: Walter Hagen Part 14: Open Mic - MusingsJamie and Charles discuss the past, present and future of the Detroit City of Champions Podcast.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 78: Walter Hagen Part 13: The First Ryder CupWith the rise of the American Professional golfer came a continually growing public interest for a UK vs USA, head-to-head competition. In today's episode Jamie and Charles will explore Walter Hagen's pivotal role in the first Ryder Cup.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Of all the luminaries which orbited around Walter Hagen, the man with whom he is most associated is the legendary golfer: Bobby Jones. In today's episode Jamie and Charles will explore the genesis of that association in the 1926 “Match of the Century.”https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 76: Walter HagenPart 11: Hagen in the Roaring 20'sThe “Roaring 20's” in America is often remembered from the perspective of the New York/Wall Street boom, the imagery of Hollywood, dancing “flappers” or prohibition gangsters. In today's episode Jamie and Charles will explore a different perspective: The Florida Land Boom. In which, Walter Hagen would take center stage.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 75: Walter HagenPart 10: Birth of the Golf TeeFor over 400 years golfers had sculpted their own golf tee, with a handful of dirt, at every hole! Over the course of a single exhibition tour in 1922 Walter Hagen and his trick shot partner, Joe Kirkwood, would relegate that practice into the realm of “Ripley's Believe it or Not.”In today's episode, Jamie and Charles explore this exhibition tour and how it led to the universal adoption of the wood golf tee.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 74: Walter HagenPart 9: Third Time's the CharmBy the end of 1921 Walter Hagen's mantle glittered with the trophies of every significant golfing championship in the world…save ONE. The (British) Open had thus far eluded him on two occasions. However, before Hagen could make his third attempt he needed to raise money for the trip. In today's episode, Jamie and Charles explore the Haig's long and winding road to the 1922 Open which intersects with the legendary stock trader, Jesse Livermore. Also introduced is Walter Hagen's own story of why a golf course has 18 holes. https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 73: Walter HagenPart 8: The American Invasion (Cont.)The conclusion of Hagen's first attempt at winning The (British) Open and the impacts of American golfing culture on Great Britain.Following a year of absolute dominance of American Professional golf, in 1920 Walter Hagen set his sights on Britain. In today's Episode Jamie and Charles explore Hagen's first attempt at The (British) Open and the many influences that US golfers would introduce as a result of this “American Invasion.”https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 72: Walter HagenPart 7: The American InvasionFollowing a year of absolute dominance of American Professional golf, in 1920 Walter Hagen set his sights on Britain. In today's Episode Jamie and Charles explore Hagen's first attempt at The (British) Open and the many influences that US golfers would introduce as a result of this “American Invasion.”https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 71: Walter Hagen Part 6: The Haig Moves to DetroitWalter Hagen, born in Rochester, NY, golfed with kings, dined with maharajas and was arguably the most well traveled sports star of his era. How then did he come to identify Detroit as his “home?” In today's episode Jamie and Charles will explore this question as well as his early impact on the burgeoning Motor City.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 70: Walter HagenPart 5: The Great War's profound impacton Pro GolfThe First World War had a tremendous impact on all American pro sports but the one which was arguably influenced the most, is, ironically, the least discussed: Golf. In today's episode, Jamie and Charles explore that impact and Walter Hagen's role at the very center of it all.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 69: Walter HagenPart 4: The Fork in the RoadDespite his solid performance at the 1912 U.S. Open, Walter Hagen still viewed baseball as his true calling. This view would be given further support when he was invited to Spring Training with the Phillies in 1913. In today's episode Jamie and Charles explore this fork in the road and how a bout of food poisoning would help to nudge The Haig into one direction rather than the other.https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 68: Walter HagenPart 3: “The Greatest Game Ever Played”U.S. Open, Brookline Massachusetts, 1913. In only his second pro tournament, Walter Hagen found himself among the front runners in one of the most important golfing events in American History. Damn that 14th hole!! In today's episode Jamie and Charles explore Hagen's experience in “The Greatest Game Ever Played.”https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 67: Walter HagenPart 2: From Caddie to Club ProFrom the earliest years of his youth Walter Hagen was immersed in the game of golf. In today's episode Jamie and Charles explore this foundational period and how it would set the stage for the emergence of a legend.
Episode 66: Walter HagenPart 1: A history of golf / introducing “The Haig”Among the brightest lights in the star-studded City of Champions universe was Walter Charles Hagen. The first club pro at Oakland Hills Country Club, Hagen would re-define the idea of what a golf professional actually was and in the process help elevate the city of Detroit into the upper echelon of American sport. In today's episode Jamie and Charles begin a series on this icon and introduce the evolution of golf up to the era of “The Haig.”https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
Episode 65: Gar Wood “The Gray Fox of Algonac.” Part 15: The Pursuit of ExcellenceAmong the pantheon of stars in the galaxy of Detroit sports, one would be hard pressed to find any as important or as forgotten as Garfield Arthur Wood. In today's episode Jamie and Charles wrap up the story of his legendary career and explore the legacy of “The Gray Fox of Algonac.”https://linktr.ee/DetroitCityofChampionswww.DJJamieDetroit.comwww.WearingFunny.com
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