Sally Ride Biography Born: May 26, 1951 Los Angeles, California
American astronaut and physicist Sally Ride is best known as the
first American woman sent into outer space, and she is also the
youngest person ever sent into orbit. She has received numerous
medals and honors for her work as an astronaut, and for her
commitment to educating the young. Sally Kristen Ride is the
older of two daughters of Dale B. Ride and Carol Joyce
(Anderson) Ride of Encino, California. She was born May 26,
1951. Her father was a professor of political science and her
mother was a counselor. Her parents encouraged Sally and her
younger sister Karen to study hard and do their best, but
allowed the children the freedom to develop at their own pace.
In 1983 Newsweek quoted Dale B. Ride as saying, "We might have
encouraged, but mostly we just let them explore." Ride showed
natural athletic ability as a youngster, often playing baseball
and football with the neighborhood children. Although she liked
all sports, tennis was her favorit