Good to read about the now almost forgotten sports writing great, Red Smith.
Picking up on your Saratoga piece, Smith was a big racing fan and loved the Saratoga track. I believe he and his sportswriting friend, Jimmy Cannon, spent a lot of time there. Smith definitely did, which I always guessed was one reason he could easily come to Glens Falls in the mid 1950s to speak to the local World Affairs Council. I was about 15 and loved sports, but, unfortunately, the only thing I can remember from his talk is the first question from someone: “how long does it take for you to write your byline.” Smith replied: “5 seconds.”
Smith had a famous like about going to Saratoga: You get on the New York State Thruway north for 150 miles, get off at Union Avenue and go back 100 years.” I’ve always felt that captured Saratoga perfectly. It feels like you have gone back in time.
The sign mentions horses because horses are allowed on a number of town beaches in Connecticut. For example, in Fairfield, CT, horses are allowed on the beach from Oct 1 to April 1.
Good to read about the now almost forgotten sports writing great, Red Smith.
Picking up on your Saratoga piece, Smith was a big racing fan and loved the Saratoga track. I believe he and his sportswriting friend, Jimmy Cannon, spent a lot of time there. Smith definitely did, which I always guessed was one reason he could easily come to Glens Falls in the mid 1950s to speak to the local World Affairs Council. I was about 15 and loved sports, but, unfortunately, the only thing I can remember from his talk is the first question from someone: “how long does it take for you to write your byline.” Smith replied: “5 seconds.”
Smith had a famous like about going to Saratoga: You get on the New York State Thruway north for 150 miles, get off at Union Avenue and go back 100 years.” I’ve always felt that captured Saratoga perfectly. It feels like you have gone back in time.
Thank you Ken for sharing your thoughts today.
I haven't heard of Red Smith for, OMG so long it isn't funny, It brought back some good memories, thanks Ken, keep 'em coming.
Red Smith is one of my heroes. Simple, spare and evocative. Who could ask for more? Thanks for conjuring him today.
Good one!
The sign mentions horses because horses are allowed on a number of town beaches in Connecticut. For example, in Fairfield, CT, horses are allowed on the beach from Oct 1 to April 1.
I find it very interesting that he said to write good columns, you have to read good columns. So when I read yours, I know it’s good writing.