The Sporting Moments That Define Chicago

When it comes to Chicago natives, few closets will be seen without a Cubs t-shirt, or perhaps a Bulls jersey. The sports loyalty in the city runs insanely deep, probably because midwesterners are nice about everything beyond sports! Don’t mess with a Chicago team, because die hard fans will come running. So when it comes to moments that define the great Windy City, none are more memorable than the ones involving sports.
Jordan’s Finale
Let’s just be honest here, Michael Jordan’s entire run with the Chicago Bulls could be counted as a defining moment in Chicago history. Jordan is still regarded as one of, if not the, greatest basketball player of all-time. His performances in the 1991 and 1992 championship runs were unbelievable, as well as the game he played through the flu. But the defining moment would be Jordan’s last game, where he sunk once final shot to solidify his time in the NBA. He played with a few other teams along the way, but his time in Chi-town will always be most memorable.

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Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripCentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
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A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
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2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.
Sox Throwing the World Series
While most of these sports memories are positive, some are unfortunately not … as is the case with the White Sox throwing the World Series in 1919. A number of players on the team made a deal with some big shot gamblers that they would throw, or intentionally lose, the game against the Cincinnati Reds. To this day, the scandal is still the biggest in sports history … and Cubs fans will never let them forget it.

First Organized Automobile Race
Though many don’t know it, the first automobile race took place in Chicago! Sponsored by the Chicago Times-Herald in 1895, the race featured six cars and the course ran from downtown Chicago up to the northern suburb of Evanston. The race was originally considered publicity for the motorcycle, which was introduced two years previously. The race was won by Charles Duryea in his motorized wagon after finishing in seven hours and roughly 50 minutes. Today, the drive to Evanston takes all of an hour.

The Birth of Softball
It often seems like baseball is the city sport of Chicago, but in fact, softball was invented in the fair city. On Thanksgiving Day in 1887 alumni of the Farragut Boat Club were waiting for the results of the Harvard vs Yale football game. When Yale was announced as the winner, a Yale fan threw a boxing glove at a Harvard fan, who hit it with a stick. The rest of the group looked up in awe as one yelled out “Play Ball!” and the game of softball was born.

Phantom Goal
The Blackhawks are beloved in Chicago whether they win or lose – but it’s a lot better when they win. And after 49 years without a Stanley Cup “W,” in 2010 when Patrick Kane hit a buzzer beater into the net, fans wanted to rejoice. Problem was, the shot was so fast that even the refs didn’t catch it! Luckily they reviewed the tape and the shot did go in, inciting Blackhawks fans everywhere to go nuts.

Cubs Winning the World Series after 108 Years
For a long time, the Cubs were laughably bad at baseball. Not only were they not winning the World Series, they were arguably the worst team ever to hit a mound. But in 2016 that all changed. Putting the “Billy Goat” curse aside, the 2016 Cubs seemed to tear through their competition. When they made the World Series, the city went wild. When they won it? The city was practically burned to the ground by dedicated lifelong fans setting off fireworks or drinking like it was the end of the world. When it comes to true Chicago sports moments, this is it.

Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!


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