Brain Delay - Decision Making Amidst Ruthian Performances and Excitable Crowds at Large Venues

On May 19, 1929, Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig hit back to back home runs in the 3rd inning against the rival Boston Red Sox sending the capacity crowd of 50,000 in Yankee Stadium into a frenzy. At the same time, a derecho-like squall line was wreaking havoc on an axis from eastern New York southward across New Jersey, eastern Pennsylvania to the DelMarVa. Although it is undeniable that the western sky must have been imposing, the game continues. After all, the 50,000 in attendance had come to see their heroes. As Ruth steps to the plate in the 5th inning, the skies open. Torrents of rain and lightning descend upon the gathered, and all 50,000 patrons attempt to leave simultaneously. Over 9000 fans had packed "Ruthville," the right field bleachers where many of Ruth's home runs landed. In the stampede to exit these bleachers, 2 were killed and dozens more were injured. Many of the injuries were significant, including broken bones and fractured skulls. This poster will outline the details and aftermath of one of the first known large venue weather incidents involving a professional sports franchise in the US. The poster will also ask the question. Have we learned anything since 1929?