January 28

Born in Athens in 1862, Anastasios Metaxas was a pioneering Greek architect and champion marksman. As an architect, he played a key role in restoring and designing neoclassical buildings in Athens. At the 1908 London Olympics, Metaxas won a bronze medal in the free rifle shooting event. His dual career showcased a rare blend of artistic creativity and competitive precision. Metaxas’ architectural works include public buildings and monuments that remain landmarks in Greece. He passed away in 1937, remembered for his contributions to both sports and architecture.

Born in 1909 in Lingen, Bernd Rosemeyer emerged as one of the most talented drivers in the golden age of Grand Prix racing. He drove for the Auto Union team, winning multiple European championships with his fearless style. In 1937 and 1938, he set numerous land speed records on the Frankfurt-Darmstadt autobahn. Rosemeyer’s blend of skill and courage made him a national hero in pre-war Germany. Tragically, he lost his life in 1938 during a high-speed record attempt, crashing on the open road. His legacy endures in motorsport history as an icon of bravery and innovation.

Born in 1881, Edward Siegler was an American gymnast known for his versatility across multiple disciplines. He competed in early gymnastics meets, showcasing strength and agility on various apparatus. In addition to gymnastics, Siegler took part in triathlon-style events combining athletic challenges. His participation helped popularize multi-sport competitions in the United States. Though details of his career are limited, his dedication reflects the spirit of athletic innovation of his time. He passed away in 1942, remembered by sports historians as a pioneer of early American gymnastics and multi-sport events.

Born in 1908 near Paris, Jean-Pierre Wimille excelled as a leading pre-war racing driver. He captured consecutive victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1937 and 1939 with Bugatti. After World War II, he competed in early Formula One races, showcasing his skill on the international stage. Wimille tragically died in a practice crash during preparations for the Buenos Aires Grand Prix in January 1949. He is remembered as a pioneering figure in French motorsport history.

Born in 1899 in Washington, D.C., Walter Beall debuted in MLB with the New York Yankees in 1923. He served primarily as a relief pitcher and occasional starter, contributing to multiple Yankees pennant wins. Beall later joined the Washington Senators, where he continued to showcase his pitching talents. Known for his fastball and curveball, he compiled a solid win–loss record over his career. After retiring from baseball, he stayed connected to the sport at the local level until his death in 1959.

Born in 1884 in France, Gustave Garrigou became known for his endurance and tactical intelligence in early stage racing. He won the 1911 Tour de France through consistent riding and strong teamwork support. Garrigou also achieved podium finishes in other classics and Grand Tours, including second in the 1913 Tour. He frequently battled challenging roads and weather, emblematic of the sport’s pioneers. After retiring, he remained active in cycling circles and inspired future generations of riders.

Born in 1888 in Lewisham, England, Frank "Tich" Freeman became one of cricket’s most formidable bowlers. Playing for Kent between 1914 and 1936, he twice took over 300 wickets in a single season—a feat unmatched. Known for his precise leg-spin and remarkable stamina, he claimed over 3,700 first-class wickets in his career. Freeman’s diminutive stature belied his ability to outwit and outlast batsmen of his era. His records and performances continue to be celebrated by cricket historians and fans alike.

Born in 1913 in Deurne, Belgium, Deloor turned professional and won the inaugural Vuelta a España in 1935 and 1936. Known for his climbing prowess and endurance, he also competed in multiple editions of the Tour de France. During the Spanish Civil War, he served with the International Brigades and later worked as a pilot in World War II. After traveling and settling in the United States, he shared his cycling experiences in interviews and memoirs. Deloor’s back-to-back Vuelta victories established him as one of the legends of pre-war professional cycling. He passed away in 2002.

Born in 1957 in Nederweert, Netherlands, Pullen specialized in long-distance events, particularly marathons and cross-country. She achieved personal best times at the Amsterdam Marathon and consistently placed in national competitions. Continuing her career into her 40s, she set Dutch masters records in the 10K, half-marathon, and marathon. Pullen represented the Netherlands at the 2002 European Championships and inspired veteran athletes. Alongside her athletics, she worked as a nurse, balancing professional commitments with training. Tragically, she died in a traffic accident during a training run in 2003. Her perseverance and late-career success remain a testament to masters-level competition.

Carlo Clerici was a Swiss road racing cyclist born in 1929. In 1954, he achieved his career highlight by winning the Giro d'Italia, overcoming fierce competition and challenging mountain stages. Known for his climbing prowess and determination, he also secured notable finishes in other European stage races. Clerici's success brought recognition to Swiss cycling in the 1950s. After retiring, he remained involved in the sport as a mentor and coach until his passing in 2007.

Yelena Romanova was a Soviet and Russian athlete born in 1963. She excelled in the 3000 meters, winning the gold medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics competing for the Unified Team. Romanova also set European records and earned medals at World Championships, establishing herself as one of her era's top distance runners. Known for her strategic racing and strong finishing kick, she inspired many young athletes in Russia. Following her retirement, she remained involved in athletics coaching until her untimely death in 2007.

Born in 1936 in Cuba, Florentino Fernández developed a passion for boxing early in life, quickly rising through the amateur ranks. He represented local clubs and earned a reputation for his agility and technical skill. After relocating to the United States, he transitioned into coaching, opening a gym that became a hub for aspiring fighters. Known for his motivational leadership and strategic insights, he guided athletes to regional and national victories. A strong advocate for youth sports, he championed programs that promoted discipline, fitness, and community engagement. His legacy endures through the generations of boxers he mentored and the vibrant community he helped build.