August 28 is a day that has witnessed numerous significant events in Canadian history, spanning various fields such as sports, politics, arts, and science. From remarkable achievements in professional sports to the birth of influential Canadians who have shaped the nation’s cultural and scientific landscape, the day has a rich history that continues to influence contemporary Canada. This article explores key events and notable births that occurred on August 28, shedding light on the diverse and impactful moments that have left an indelible mark on Canadian history.
What Happened on August 28 in Canadian History?
Largest Wrestling Crowd in Canada (1986)
On August 28, 1986, Toronto’s Exhibition Stadium hosted the largest wrestling crowd in Canadian history, with a staggering 69,300 spectators in attendance. The event was a major wrestling spectacle, headlined by some of the biggest names in professional wrestling at the time. The sheer size of the crowd reflected the immense popularity of wrestling in Canada during the 1980s, particularly in Toronto, which was a hotspot for wrestling events.
This historic event not only demonstrated the draw of professional wrestling in Canada but also highlighted the cultural significance of wrestling as a form of entertainment. The large turnout showcased the passion of Canadian wrestling fans and solidified Toronto’s reputation as a key location for major wrestling events. The 1986 wrestling event at Exhibition Stadium remains a significant milestone in the history of sports entertainment in Canada.
See Also: What Happened on August 28 in History?
Canadian Open Women’s Golf (1994)
The Canadian Open Women’s Golf, known as the du Maurier Classic, held on August 28, 1994, at Ottawa Hunt and Golf Club, was a notable event in Canadian sports history. Martha Nause emerged victorious, winning the tournament by just one stroke ahead of Michelle McGann. The win was particularly significant for Nause, as it marked her second and final LPGA Tour victory, capping off a distinguished career in professional golf.
The du Maurier Classic was one of the major championships in women’s golf at the time, and the 1994 edition saw intense competition among some of the best female golfers in the world. Nause’s victory at this prestigious tournament solidified her place in the annals of women’s golf and added to the rich history of the Canadian Open. The tournament also highlighted the growing popularity of women’s golf in Canada, contributing to the sport’s development in the country.
MTV Video Music Awards (2011)
On August 28, 2011, the 28th MTV Video Music Awards were held, featuring prominent Canadian and international artists. The event was a major cultural moment, with Canadian artists like Justin Bieber making a significant impact. Bieber, who had already become a global superstar, won the Best Male Video award for his song “U Smile,” further solidifying his status as one of the most influential pop artists of his generation.
The 2011 MTV Video Music Awards were also notable for performances and appearances by other major artists, including Lady Gaga and Katy Perry, who won multiple awards. The event underscored the global reach of Canadian music, with artists like Bieber continuing to dominate international charts and awards shows. The MTV Video Music Awards of 2011 remain a highlight in the history of Canadian pop culture, showcasing the country’s contribution to the global music scene.
Canadian Women’s Open (2011)
The 2011 Canadian Women’s Open, held at Hillsdale Golf and Country Club, concluded on August 28, with Brittany Lincicome claiming victory. Lincicome won by just one stroke ahead of a competitive field that included Michelle Wie and Stacy Lewis, both of whom were among the top golfers in the world at the time. Lincicome’s victory was her fifth on the LPGA Tour and added to her reputation as one of the premier long hitters in women’s golf.
The 2011 tournament was part of the LPGA Tour and attracted a strong international field, highlighting the prestige of the Canadian Women’s Open. Lincicome’s victory was celebrated not only for her performance but also for the tournament’s successful organization and the high level of competition. The event further established Canada as a key venue for women’s golf and continued to build the legacy of the Canadian Women’s Open as a top-tier golf event.
Canadian Women’s Open (2016)
On August 28, 2016, Ariya Jutanugarn of Thailand won the Canadian Women’s Open at Priddis Green Golf and Country Club, finishing four strokes ahead of South Korea’s Kim Sei-young. Jutanugarn’s victory was her fifth of the 2016 season, marking her as one of the most dominant players on the LPGA Tour that year. Her win in Canada was part of an incredible run that saw her rise to the top of the women’s golf rankings.
The 2016 Canadian Women’s Open was notable for its competitive field and the high level of international participation, with top golfers from around the world competing for the title. Jutanugarn’s performance throughout the tournament was exceptional, and her victory at Priddis Green was a testament to her skill and consistency. The event further cemented the Canadian Women’s Open’s reputation as a premier golf tournament on the LPGA Tour, attracting the best players from around the globe.
Birth of Phil Edwards, Canadian-Guyanese Runner (1907)
Phil Edwards, one of Canada’s most decorated track and field athletes, was born on August 28, 1907, in Georgetown, Guyana. Edwards, who later became a Canadian citizen, earned the nickname “Man of Bronze” due to his remarkable achievements at the Olympic Games, where he won five bronze medals across three Olympic Games (1928, 1932, 1936). Edwards specialized in middle-distance running and was known for his incredible consistency and endurance.
Beyond his athletic career, Edwards made significant contributions to the medical field, becoming a respected physician in Montreal after retiring from competitive sports. He was also a pioneer for Black athletes in Canada, breaking barriers in a time when racial discrimination was prevalent. Edwards’ legacy is not only defined by his Olympic achievements but also by his impact on Canadian sports and society. His life story remains an inspiration to athletes and individuals striving to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
Birth of Robertson Davies, Canadian Novelist and Dramatist (1913)
On August 28, 1913, Robertson Davies, one of Canada’s most celebrated novelists, essayists, and dramatists, was born in Thamesville, Ontario. Davies is best known for his works that explore Canadian identity, culture, and society, including the Deptford Trilogy, which remains one of the most significant contributions to Canadian literature. His writing is characterized by its wit, psychological depth, and exploration of the human condition, often set against the backdrop of Canadian life.
Davies’ career spanned several decades, during which he gained international recognition and numerous awards for his literary contributions. He was also a respected academic, serving as the founding master of Massey College at the University of Toronto. Davies’ influence on Canadian literature is profound, as he played a key role in establishing Canadian fiction as a respected and distinct genre on the world stage. His birth on August 28, 1913, marks the beginning of a life that would leave a lasting legacy in the world of literature.
Birth of Hélène Baillargeon, Quebec Singer and Folklorist (1916)
Hélène Baillargeon, a prominent Quebec singer and folklorist, was born on August 28, 1916, in Saint-Martin, Quebec. Baillargeon was a leading figure in preserving and promoting Quebec’s rich cultural heritage, particularly its traditional folk music. She was well-known for her radio and television appearances, where she brought Quebec folk songs to a broader audience, helping to keep the region’s musical traditions alive.
Baillargeon’s contributions to Canadian culture extended beyond her performances, as she was also involved in various initiatives to document and study Quebec’s folk traditions. Her work in this field earned her recognition as one of Canada’s foremost cultural ambassadors. Baillargeon’s dedication to preserving Quebec’s cultural heritage has had a lasting impact on the province’s identity and the broader Canadian cultural landscape.
Birth of John Herbert Chapman, Canadian Physicist and Space Researcher (1921)
John Herbert Chapman, a pioneering Canadian physicist and space researcher, was born on August 28, 1921, in London, Ontario. Chapman is widely regarded as the father of Canada’s space program, having played a crucial role in the development and launch of Alouette 1, Canada’s first satellite, in 1962. This achievement made Canada the third country in the world to launch a satellite, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s scientific and technological development.
Chapman’s contributions to space research went beyond Alouette 1, as he was instrumental in establishing the Canadian Space Agency and laying the groundwork for Canada’s participation in international space exploration efforts. His work helped position Canada as a leader in satellite communications and space science. Chapman’s legacy is commemorated in various ways, including the naming of the John H. Chapman Space Centre in his honor, recognizing his profound impact on Canadian space research and technology.
Birth of John Perkins, Canadian Pop Singer (1931)
On August 28, 1931, John Perkins, a member of the popular Canadian vocal group The Crew Cuts, was born in Toronto, Ontario. The Crew Cuts were best known for their hit single “Sh-Boom,” which became one of the defining songs of the 1950s. Perkins, along with his group members, played a significant role in bringing rock and roll to mainstream audiences in Canada and the United States during the early days of the genre.
The Crew Cuts’ success in the 1950s was a major milestone in the history of Canadian music, as the group achieved international fame and paved the way for future Canadian artists to break into the global music scene. Perkins’ contribution to The Crew Cuts and the music industry is remembered as part of the cultural fabric of the 1950s, a decade that saw the rise of new musical styles and the emergence of Canada as a force in popular music.
Birth of Andy Bathgate, Canadian Professional Ice Hockey Player (1932)
Andy Bathgate, one of the greatest players in the history of the National Hockey League (NHL), was born on August 28, 1932, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Bathgate was a dominant force on the ice, known for his exceptional skill, leadership, and sportsmanship. He spent the majority of his career with the New York Rangers, where he won the Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player in 1959.
Bathgate’s impact on hockey extended beyond his individual achievements, as he was also a mentor to younger players and a key figure in the development of professional hockey in North America. His legacy is honored in various ways, including his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1978. Bathgate’s contributions to the sport have left an enduring mark on Canadian hockey, and his birth on August 28, 1932, is celebrated as the beginning of a legendary career in one of Canada’s most beloved sports.
Birth of Gilles Rocheleau, French Canadian Politician (1935)
Gilles Rocheleau, a notable French Canadian politician, was born on August 28, 1935, in Hull, Quebec. Rocheleau had a significant political career, serving as a Member of Parliament and later as a member of the Bloc Québécois, a party dedicated to promoting Quebec sovereignty. He was actively involved in the political landscape of Quebec during a time of significant change and was known for his advocacy of Quebec’s distinct identity within Canada.
Rocheleau’s career was marked by his dedication to public service and his commitment to the people of Quebec. His work in both federal and provincial politics contributed to the ongoing dialogue about Quebec’s place within Canada, and he was a respected figure in his community. Rocheleau’s legacy is remembered in Quebec’s political history, and his birth on August 28, 1935, marks the beginning of a life dedicated to public service and the pursuit of Quebec’s cultural and political aspirations.
Conclusion
August 28 has been a day of remarkable achievements and notable births in Canadian history. From significant sporting events to the contributions of influential Canadians in various fields, the day reflects the diverse and rich history of the nation. Each event and individual highlighted in this article has played a role in shaping Canada’s identity and its place on the global stage. As we reflect on these moments, we are reminded of the importance of celebrating and preserving the history that continues to define Canada today.