10/9/04

Washington, DC—Guests snacked on cotton candy and popcorn with the strains of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" echoing through the exhibition galleries—not exactly a typical exhibition opening!

For one night, the National Museum of American History (NMAH) was alive with the roar of a sports crowd. It was an event truly unlike any other as athletes and avid sports fans from around the area gathered to celebrate the opening of Sports: Breaking Records, Breaking Barriers at NMAH.

Many simply came to ogle the iconic sports objects on display: an autographed Babe Ruth baseball, one of Lance Armstrong's yellow jerseys, the bejeweled tennis outfit worn by Billie Jean King during her famed "Battle of Sexes" match. Others came to catch a glimpse of sports legends like basketball great and official exhibition spokesman Bill Russell-on hand to deliver the evening's keynote address. Among the sea of athletes and celebrities listening to Russell were skater Nancy Kerrigan, gymnast Kerri Strug, soccer player Nick Rimando, sports commentator Tony Kornheiser (the evening's emcee), and many others.

We greatly appreciate the support of Audi of America, the exclusive national sponsor of the exhibition and its national tour.

Press Releases

Special Features

FAQS about SITES

In the News

On the Blog