By Darin What would you do if a 190-pound ball of muscle were catapulted directly over your head at full speed? In the turn-of-the-century era of “brute force” football, Harold Weekes was the ultimate human projectile. As the star of Columbia University, Weekes mastered the terrifying “flying hurdle”—a play so daring it was eventually banned for being too dangerous. From his legendary 55-yard sprint that toppled unbeaten Yale to becoming one of the rare four-time All-Americans in history, Weekes was the most explosive weapon of the early gridiron.
Unknown author – The A.G. Spalding Baseball Collection
Football Bio
April 2, 1880 – Oyster Bay, New York – Harold Weekes, Columbia’s dynamic halfback from 1899 to 1902, was born. The NFF describes Weekes as explosive, excelling in the perilous “flying hurdle” play. In this bold maneuver, teammates lifted Weekes and catapulted him headfirst over the line, stunning defenders.
As a freshman in 1899, he sprinted 55 yards for the winning touchdown in Columbia’s first victory over unbeaten Yale in 18 years. Weekes consistently confounded defenses, earning All-America honors each season. Walter Camp praised his power and timely speed. Harold Weekes was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1954.
Conclusion
Harold Weekes was a physical marvel who combined raw power with a flair for the dramatic. His mastery of the “flying hurdle” remains one of the most iconic images of early American football, representing a time when the game was as much about acrobatics and courage as it was about strategy. By earning All-American honors every single year of his collegiate career, he proved that his success wasn’t just due to a gimmick play, but to a fundamental dominance that even the great Walter Camp couldn’t help but admire. Weekes didn’t just play for Columbia; he elevated the program to national prominence.
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- College Football Hall of Fame: Inducted in 1954.
- 4-Time All-American: Earned honors from 1899, 1900, 1901, and 1902 (a feat achieved by very few in history).
- 1899 Yale Victory: Scored the game-winning 55-yard touchdown to beat an undefeated Yale team for the first time in 18 years.
- “Flying Hurdle” Specialist: Renowned for the maneuver where teammates launched him over the defensive line.
- Walter Camp All-Century Team: Named by the “Father of American Football” as one of the greatest to ever play the halfback position.
- Multi-Sport Athlete: Also excelled in hockey and crew at Columbia University.
- Stalwart Defender: Known for his ability to play “both ways” in an era of 60-minute ironman football.
