August 18

On August 18, 1923, Britain held its inaugural national track and field championships for women athletes in London. Organized by the Women's Amateur Athletic Association, the event provided a groundbreaking platform for female competitors in sprints, jumps, and throws. Dozens of participants from across the United Kingdom showcased their skills, challenging prevailing beliefs about women's athletic capabilities. The championships attracted public interest and media coverage, helping to legitimize women's sports at a time when opportunities were limited. This milestone event laid the groundwork for future international competitions and the inclusion of more women's events in the Olympic Games. It remains a pivotal moment in the history of women's athletics in the United Kingdom.

On August 18, 1958, Brojen Das of Bangladesh completed the grueling swim across the English Channel, becoming the first Bengali and the first Asian to achieve the feat. He covered the distance between England and France in challenging waters, overcoming cold temperatures and strong currents. Das outpaced 38 other competitors to claim first place in the annual channel swimming competition. His accomplishment brought international acclaim to South Asian athletics and inspired swimmers across the region. Prior to this triumph, Das had trained rigorously in local rivers and lakes, honing the endurance needed for long-distance open water swimming. His victory helped elevate Bangladesh's presence in global sports during its pre-independence era. Brojen Das's record remains a celebrated milestone in the history of channel swimming.