Red Smith
Red Smith
#### A Legendary Sports Columnist
Red Smith was a renowned American sports columnist and Pulitzer Prize winner known for his witty commentary on the world of sports. His insightful writings captured the hearts and minds of readers across generations.
Full Name and Common Aliases
Red Smith's full name is Frederick Hobert Smith, but he preferred to be called Red due to his hair turning red early in life. He was often referred to as one of the greatest sports writers of all time.
Birth and Death Dates
Red Smith was born on January 21, 1906, and passed away on April 7, 1982.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Smith held American nationality and worked primarily as a sports columnist for various newspapers throughout his career. His profession allowed him to share his passion for sports with the world while offering readers unique perspectives and insights.
Early Life and Background
Red Smith grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where he developed a strong interest in sports from an early age. He attended Coe College but left without graduating to pursue a career in writing. His early experiences as a newspaper reporter laid the foundation for his future success as a prominent sports columnist.
Major Accomplishments
Smith's career was marked by numerous achievements and accolades, including:
Winning two Pulitzer Prizes for distinguished commentary (1958 and 1976)
Serving as a columnist for the New York Herald Tribune and later the New York Times
* Being inducted into the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Hall of Fame
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Red Smith's most notable works include his columns on boxing, which earned him widespread acclaim. His writings not only captured the essence of the sport but also humanized its participants.
One of his most famous quotes is: "If you don't have time to do it right, when will you find the time to do it over?" This quote encapsulates Smith's dedication to thoroughness and accuracy in his work.
Impact and Legacy
Red Smith's impact on sports journalism extends far beyond his remarkable career. He set a high standard for writers by pushing the boundaries of storytelling and insight. His legacy can be seen in the many journalists who have followed in his footsteps, striving to match his level of excellence.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Red Smith is widely quoted and remembered due to his exceptional writing skills, which combined with his passion for sports, made him a household name. His quotes continue to inspire readers, offering valuable lessons on the importance of persistence, dedication, and hard work.
In conclusion, Red Smith's remarkable life and career serve as an inspiration to anyone interested in sports or journalism. His contributions to the world of writing have left an indelible mark that continues to influence generations of writers and readers alike.
Quotes by Red Smith
Red Smith's insights on:
I think it’s the real world. The people we’re writing about in professional sports, they’re suffering and living and dying and loving and trying to make their way through life just as the brick layers and politicians are.
For 350 years we have been taught that reading maketh a full man, conference a ready man and writing an exact man. Football’s place is to add a patina of character, a deference to the rules and a respect for authority.
It was an ideal day for football – too cold for the spectators and too cold for the players.
It’s no accident that of all the monuments left of the Greco- Roman culture the biggest is the ballpark, the Colosseum, the YankeeStadium of ancient times.
Unlike the normal pattern, I know I have grown more liberal as I’ve grown older. I have become more convinced that there is room for improvement in the world.
Ninety feet between home plate and first base may be the closest man has ever come to perfection.
Writing is easy. Just sit in front of a typewriter, open up a vein and bleed it out drop by drop.
It was an ideal day for football - too cold for the spectators and too cold for the players.
