Significant Events in Chicago’s History on July 31

An Aeromexico Flight’s Safe Outcome

On July 31, 2018, an Aeromexico Embraer 190 crashed shortly after taking off from Durango, Mexico. All 97 passengers and four crew members survived. Among the travelers were several from Chicago, including the Rev. Esequiel Sanchez. He had traveled to Mexico to celebrate his birthday with family.

Betty Robinson’s Olympic Triumph

In 1928, Betty Robinson of Riverdale, Illinois, made history at the Amsterdam Olympics. She won the gold medal in the 100-meter dash, clocking in at 12.2 seconds. Robinson was only 16 at the time, and this marked the first inclusion of women’s track in the Olympics. Despite a plane crash that prevented her from defending her title in 1932, Robinson strengthened her legacy by contributing to the gold-medal U.S. 4-x-100 relay team at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

The Arlington Park Fire

July 31, 1985, saw a catastrophic fire at Arlington Park. The blaze began in the Post and Paddock Club and eventually consumed the main grandstand. Fortunately, there were no injuries. The venue demonstrated resilience by hosting its largest event less than a month later, drawing over 35,000 attendees. This accomplishment earned Arlington Park an Eclipse Award, distinguishing it as the first racetrack to receive this honor.

Walter Payton’s Hall of Fame Induction

On July 31, 1993, Walter Payton of the Chicago Bears was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Payton, often referred to as ‘Sweetness,’ retired in 1987 as the NFL’s all-time leading rusher with 16,726 yards, surpassing Jim Brown’s previous record. Although Emmitt Smith overtook this record in 2002, Payton’s impact on football remains profound. His untimely death in 1999 prompted a large public memorial, and the NFL renamed its Man of the Year Award in his honor.