A Magical Evening...

The Firstar Century of Saint Louis Sports Celebration

Click on any image to begin the slide show. Photos by Dave Preston

November 15, 1999 - The Fabulous Fox Theatre

One remarkable night… a century of memories.

In November 1999, St. Louis sports fans and 100 of the area’s greatest stars came together at the Fox Theatre for The Firstar Century of Saint Louis Sports Celebration.

Created and produced by the Sports Commission, the gala program saluted the legendary personalities, performances and events that have been at the heart of sports in St. Louis over the last 100 years. The region’s storied sports history was captured through video montages and in-person appearances and interviews. Bob Costas emceed the festivities with help from Jack Buck, Dan Dierdorf, Ron Jacober, Bill McDermott and Jackie Slater.

The Celebration represented one of the most ambitious undertakings for the Commission. But it was a commitment well worth the effort and energy. If there was ever a region deserving of an event to mark its sports history from the last century, it’s right here.

We know of no other community in America that put on an event of this kind. Of course no other region could equal our city’s sports tradition or match the support of our residents and fans.

St. Louis certainly has much to be proud of. From the 1904 Olympics to 70 home runs to a Super Bowl title — plus all the spectacular moments and achievements in between — we have a sports legacy that’s uniquely ours. It’s a legacy that was the foundation for the Nov. 15 Celebration and a cornerstone for our community in the new millennium.

"Century of sports gala rates a 100 with this viewer."
-St. Louis Post-Dispatch headline Nov. 18

"Anyone who calls himself or herself a St. Louis sports fan should have been there."
-Mike Eisenbath, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Nov. 18 commentary

"There are really two chances that a night like this will happen again — slim and none. And that’s what makes it so special."
-Mike Bush, Sports Director, KSDK — TV

"I am really proud and honored, and privileged to be here."
-Bill Walton, NBA Hall of Famer and All-American at UCLA, who scored 44 points, hitting 21 of 22 shots, in 1973 NCAA Championship at the St. Louis Arena