SEPTEMBER 18, 1990

Full News Archive

• Headline: American Bikers Dominate World Championships. Impact: The triumph of American bikers set off a chain reaction that led to the creation of countless 'extreme sports' reality shows. Who knew a few mountain bikers could inspire a generation of people to jump off cliffs with nothing but a parachute and a prayer?. Fact: Did you know that mountain biking was originally a way for bored cyclists to find new ways to crash into trees? Now, it's a legitimate sport. Progress!.
• Headline: Dennis Conner's Cup Defense Challenge. Impact: Dennis Conner's sailing fame inadvertently inspired a wave of sports documentaries, making it possible for countless mediocre athletes to gain fame for their mediocre skills. Thanks, Dennis, for paving the way for the Kardashians of the sports world!. Fact: Sailing became popular in the U.S. partly because it’s one of the few sports where you can look classy while sipping a cocktail. Who needs to sweat when you can sip?.
• Headline: College Football Video Exchange Controversy. Impact: The scandal over the videotape incident led to the birth of sports analytics. Coaches soon realized that instead of just stealing tapes, they could actually analyze data to make their teams better. Who would have thought that breaking the rules could lead to better decision-making?. Fact: In college football, coaching is often less about winning and more about who can keep their secrets secret. It's like a soap opera, but with more helmets!.