Congressional baseball game: Who are Congress’ top athletes?

The Congressional Baseball Game: Where Politics and Athletics Collide

The Congressional Baseball Game is not just a charity exhibition match; it’s a chance for Republicans and Democrats to showcase their athletic prowess. But did you know that many members of Congress were athletes before they entered the United States Capitol? Let’s take a closer look at seven of the best current and former athletes currently serving in the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI)

Rep. Mike Gallagher from Wisconsin is not just a congressman; he’s also the reigning “fastest overall member in Congress.” Gallagher has dominated the ACLI Capital Challenge 5K running race in Washington, D.C., winning the title every year since 2017. Despite his recent victory in 2023 with a gun time of 20:04, Gallagher humbly acknowledges that his best time came in 2017, clocking in at an impressive 18:36.

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ)

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema is not only a dedicated public servant but also an accomplished runner. As an ultramarathoner, she has even conquered the prestigious Boston Marathon, finishing with a time of 3:57:27 in 2023. Sinema also holds the title of the fastest female member of Congress, defending her crown at the ACLI Capital Challenge 5K running race with a gun time of 22:11.

Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT)

Before becoming a congressman, Rep. Burgess Owens had a successful career in the NFL. As a member of the Oakland Raiders, he triumphed in Super Bowl XV. Owens played defensive back for the University of Miami and later joined the New York Jets and the Oakland Raiders. Throughout his NFL journey, he accumulated an impressive record of 30 interceptions, four touchdowns, and 13 fumble recoveries.

Rep. Collin Allred (D-TX)

Rep. Collin Allred is not just a congressman; he’s also a former NFL player. After playing linebacker for Baylor University, he signed with the Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent. Allred’s NFL career spanned from 2006 to 2010, but unfortunately, a career-ending injury cut his time on the field short. Nevertheless, he made his mark with 31 solo tackles and 15 assists on tackles.

Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL)

Sen. Tommy Tuberville is widely recognized for his successful coaching career in college football. However, before he became a renowned head coach, Tuberville played Safety for Southern Arkansas University. His dedication to the sport paid off, as he won an SEC Championship while coaching Auburn and was even named National Coach of the Year in 2004.

Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK)

Sen. Markwayne Mullin is not your typical politician. Before entering the world of politics, he made a name for himself as an MMA fighter. With a professional record of 5-0, Mullin’s skills in the ring earned him a spot in the Oklahoma Wrestling Hall of Fame. Even after retiring from the sport, he remains active in the wrestling community, coaching his children and other young athletes in tournaments across the country.

Rep. Sharice Davids (D-KS)

Rep. Sharice Davids is not just a congresswoman; she’s also highly trained in martial arts. With a background in MMA, Davids has competed both as an amateur and a professional fighter. Her amateur record stands at an impressive 5-1, while her professional record is 1-1, showcasing her dedication and skill in the ring.

Out of all the congressional athletes mentioned above, only Rep. Collin Allred will be participating in the 2023 Congressional Baseball Game. It’s sure to be an exciting event, where politics and athleticism collide.