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Ben Howard-BakerEnglish sportsman of the early 20th century
Date of Birth: 13.02.1892
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- English Sportsman of the Early 20th Century
- Football Career
- Water Polo and War Injury
- Tennis
- High Jump and Other Athletic Achievements
- Post-Sports Career
English Sportsman of the Early 20th Century
Benjamin Howard-Baker was a versatile English athlete who excelled in multiple sports, including soccer and high jump. He represented England in both disciplines at the Olympic Games.
Football Career
Howard-Baker served as goalkeeper for England's national team, as well as for "Liverpool," "Everton," "Chelsea," and the amateur "Corinthians" squad. In 1929, he played for the amateurs in the Football Charity Shield. His career began with various North West amateur teams before he joined "Blackburn Rovers" and "Preston North End." He then moved back to his hometown to play for "Liverpool," eventually switching to "Everton" and then to "Chelsea."
Water Polo and War Injury
Before becoming a goalkeeper, Howard-Baker represented England in water polo as a defender. However, a shrapnel injury to his ankle sustained during active duty in World War I forced him to transition into the goalkeeper position.
Tennis
In addition to his soccer and water polo affiliations, Howard-Baker competed in tennis tournaments. He participated in the 1929 Wimbledon Northern Qualifier in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles and won the 1932 Welsh Covered Court Tennis Championships.
High Jump and Other Athletic Achievements
Howard-Baker was a world-renowned high jumper, and he represented Great Britain in the 1912 (6th place) and 1920 (11th place) Olympic Games. Notably, he held the British high jump record (1.95 m) from 1921 to 1946. He also achieved success in triple jump and other track and field events. At the Northern Counties Championships, Howard-Baker won in high jump (1911-1914, 1912-21), 120-yard hurdles (1921), and discus throw (1920). He also won the 1920 Northern Counties Olympic Games in long jump.
Post-Sports Career
After retiring from sports, Howard-Baker joined his family business in soap and chemical manufacturing. He became a prominent businessman in Liverpool.
