What Happened on February 17, 1985

Historical Events

  • 1st class postage rises from 20 cents to 22 cents
  • 1st day/night game at the MCG, Australia v England

Daytona 500

27th Daytona 500: After taking pole at then-record speed of 205.114 mph Bill Elliott dominates race leading 136 of 200 laps

  • 3rd person to receive an artificial heart (Murray Haydon)
  • Dutch speed skater Hein Vergeer becomes World Allround champion

Sports History

Panamanian jockey Laffit Pincay Jr.is third to ride 6,000 winners; wins aboard Doria's Delight in the 5th race at Santa Anita Park


1985 History

Famous Birthdays

  • Anne Curtis, Filipino actress and commercial model
Born in 1985

Famous Deaths

  • Wanda Perry, actress (Roberta, Death of a Salesman), dies at 67

About February 17, 1985

Day of the Week: Sunday
How Long Ago? 38 years, 3 months and 17 days
Leap Year: No

Generation: Millennial
Chinese Zodiac: Rat
Star Sign: Aquarius

Music Charts

  • US #1 Song: Careless Whisper - Wham! Featuring George Michael
  • UK #1 Song: I Know Him So Well - Elaine Paige & Barbara Dickson