1879 in sports
1879 in sports describes the year's events in world sport.
College championship
Events
International
- 5 April — James F. M. Prinsep of Clapham Rovers becomes England's youngest international player at the age of 17 years and 252 when he makes his debut (and only appearance) for England against Scotland. The record stands for more than 123 years until broken by Wayne Rooney in 2003.
England
Scotland
National championship
Events
Events
- John J. Dwyer defeats former champion Jimmy Elliott in 12 rounds at Long Point, Canada, and then claims the Heavyweight Championship of America due to the continued inactivity of current champion Joe Goss and the main challenger Paddy Ryan. His claim is not recognised. Subsequently, Dwyer becomes involved in a bar room brawl with Ryan in New York City.[1]
- John L. Sullivan turns professional and wins his first five known fights.[2]
Events
England
Australia
Major tournaments
England
Australia
Canada
Ireland
USA
Events
- The Irish Hurling Union formalises the sport for the first time.
Events
- The U.S. Amateur Lacrosse Association is formed and adopts the Canadian rules.
The Boat Race
Events
England
References
Sports by year 1851 – 1900
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to 1850 • 1851 – 1900 • 1901 – 1950 • 1951 – 2000 • from 2001
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