What Happened on April 2, 1980

Historical Events

Sports History

In his first full season in the NHL, Wayne Gretzky scores for Edmonton in a 1-1 tie with Minnesota North Stars to become the youngest player to reach 50 goals at 19 years and 2 months of age

Sports History

Montreal right wing Guy Lafleur scores twice to become the first player in NHL history to record 6 straight 50-goal seasons, as the Canadiens beat the Red Wings, 7-2 at Detroit


Famous Birthdays

  • Adam Fleming, English news reporter (Daily Politics), born in Glasgow, Scotland
  • Bobby Bones [Bobby Estell], American radio host and TV personality (American Idol), born in Mountain Pine, Arkansas
  • Carlos Salcido, Mexican soccer defender (124 caps; Olympic gold 2012; PSV, Guadalajara), born in Ocotlán, Jalisco, Mexico
  • Ricky Hendrick, American auto racer and team owner (NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series 1 win, 23 top 10s), born in Charlotte, North Carolina (d. 2004)
Born in 1980

Famous Deaths

  • Dick Howorth, English cricket all-rounder (5 Tests, 19 wickets; Worcestershire CCC), dies at 70
  • Pascual de Rogatis, Argentine composer (Huemac; Estampas Argentinas), dies at 99
1980 Highlights

About April 2, 1980

Day of the Week: Wednesday
How Long Ago? 43 years, 11 months and 27 days
Leap Year: Yes

Generation: Generation X
Chinese Zodiac: Monkey
Star Sign: Aries

Music Charts

  • US #1 Song: Another Brick In The Wall (Part II) - Pink Floyd
  • UK #1 Song: Going Underground/Dreams Of Children - Jam