So, you know who all of your favorite sports legends are, but what about your father’s favorites? Here is a list of athletes that quite possibly belong in your father’s hero group:
Jack Nicklaus – The Golden Bear sure tore up his share of golf courses from the 1960’s all the way through the 80’s winning 18 majors along the way. He not only proved to me a fierce competitor but a gentleman as well both on and off the course.
Mario Andretti – Quite possibly the best racer in North American history with the late 1960’s and early 1970’s being some of the best shows including the Indianapolis 500, the Daytona 500 and 3 of the 12 hour Sebring races.
Gordie Howe – The one pro hockey player and sports legend that has been in the action for five decades always giving the impression that while he may be older he was still tougher. This is apparent by the fact that even after the age of 50 he continued to collect points as well as penalty minutes.
Johnny Unitas – Ok, it was definitely hard for someone not to be a fan once he signed with the Colts in ’56 and continued his great career with them until 1972. This hall of fame sports legend also won a super bowl and two NFL championships.
Hank Aaron – He seemed to personally rewrite most of the hitting categories in the record book and had some pretty consistently amazing seasons all while facing death threats from those that were not thrilled with a black man threatening to break a white mans home run record; ending up with 755 in his career.
Muhammad Ali – While out of the ring from 1967 to 1970 his career before and after that probably defined being an athlete in the 20th century. Arguably no other figure seemed to transcend politics, religion and sports in the way that he did, known for his domination when in the ring and dedication to his personal beliefs outside of the ring.
Pete Rose – All moral issues aside he was a great baseball player, playing the game with more effort, emotion and hustle than most other sports figures, during the 60’s and 70’s; hitting at least .300 during every season from 65 to 73 and voted MVP in 1973.
Of course, there are many other notable sports players that have been around for some time and have had amazing careers. Why not give your dad a call and talk about it?
