Ralph Belsinger

Ralph Belsinger attended UC from 1911 to 1915 and was the university’s first African American athlete. He ran for the track team here in Nippert Stadium for all four years at UC, participating in relay events and running the mile. Belsinger was known for his speed, given the nickname “Eight Stride.” Beyond athletics, Belsinger was also an excellent student and in his senior year he was one of five students to receive the McMicken Honorary Scholarship award. After graduating with a degree in education, Belsinger became a teacher in Cincinnati Public Schools. Belsinger taught 42 years, first at Douglas Elementary and then Bloom Junior High School and retired in June, 1956. He passed away at home on November 25, 1956 at age 66.