February 21

Ferenc Szisz was born in 1873 in Hungary and trained as a mechanical engineer before moving to France. Joining the de Dietrich company, he became a test driver and mechanic. In 1906, Szisz won the inaugural Grand Prix at Le Mans, driving for Renault and establishing himself as a leading figure in early motorsport. He continued to compete in races across Europe, contributing to automotive engineering through his technical feedback. During World War I, Szisz served as a driver and instructor, applying his expertise to the war effort. After the war, he remained involved in the automotive industry and shared his experiences in memoirs. Szisz died on February 21, 1944, remembered as a pioneer of Grand Prix racing.

Eric Liddell was a Scottish sprinter and rugby player born in 1902. He won the gold medal in the 400 metres at the 1924 Paris Olympics, famously refusing to run in heats scheduled on a Sunday due to his Christian faith. He also represented Scotland in rugby union. After his athletic career, he served as a missionary in China, where he died in an internment camp in 1945. His life story was immortalized in the film Chariots of Fire.

Duncan Edwards was born in 1936 and rapidly established himself as one of England’s greatest football talents. Playing as a defender and midfielder for Manchester United, he made his first-team debut at just 17 and earned a regular place in the England national team. Known for his strength, skill, and versatility, Edwards was a cornerstone of Matt Busby’s celebrated 'Busby Babes'. His career was tragically cut short at the age of 21 by injuries sustained in the 1958 Munich air disaster. His legacy endures as a symbol of promise and talent in the history of football.

Born in Cochrane, Ontario, Tim Horton became one of the NHL's most celebrated defensemen, winning four Stanley Cups with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He set a long-standing goal record for a defenseman and was known for his sturdy playing style. In 1964 he opened the first Tim Hortons doughnut shop in Hamilton, pioneering a venture that grew into Canada's largest quick-service restaurant chain. Horton balanced his sports career with entrepreneurship, helping the brand expand across North America. His life was tragically cut short in a car crash in 1974, cementing his legacy both on the ice and in the business world.

Wilmer 'Vinegar Bend' Mizell (1930–1999) was an American professional baseball pitcher and politician. He played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Chicago Cubs, winning two World Series titles with the Cardinals. Known for his fastball and engaging personality, Mizell retired from baseball to enter politics. He served three terms as a U.S. Representative for North Carolina from 1969 to 1975. His unique career bridged sports and public service, making him a notable figure in both arenas.

John Charles (1931–2004) was a legendary Welsh footballer renowned for his versatility and sportsmanship. He excelled as a defender and striker for clubs such as Leeds United, Juventus, and AS Roma, winning multiple league titles in Italy. Charles was celebrated for his physical strength, technical skill, and fair conduct, earning the nickname 'The Gentle Giant'. Internationally, he won 38 caps for Wales and scored 15 goals. After retiring, he managed teams and contributed to youth football development, leaving a lasting impact on the game.

Born in 1925 in Västerås, Sweden, Hasse Jeppson rose to prominence with his clinical finishing and aerial prowess. He starred for Örgryte IS before moving to Italy, where he played for Napoli, Juventus, and Torino. His prolific scoring earned him the nickname "Il Kilowatt" among Italian fans. Jeppson represented Sweden at the 1950 FIFA World Cup, helping the team secure a third-place finish. He finished his career back in Sweden, leaving a legacy as one of the nation’s most celebrated strikers. His impact on Italian football marked a turning point for foreign players in Serie A.

Born in 1935 in Guanabacoa, Cuba, Héctor Maestri was a right-handed pitcher known for his fastball. He debuted in Major League Baseball with the Washington Senators during the 1961 season. Maestri appeared in three big-league games, showcasing his pitching talent on the sport’s grandest stage. He spent the majority of his career in the minor leagues and in the Cuban winter league. After retiring from playing, he remained involved in baseball through coaching and scouting roles. His journey reflects the passion and challenges faced by many Latin American players of his era.

Born in 1985 in New South Wales, Matthew Robinson rose to fame as a fearless big-mountain snowboarder. He was a featured rider in acclaimed snowboarding films and web series, showcasing his technical skill and creativity. Robinson competed on the Swatch TTR World Tour and earned podium finishes in major events. He was a member of the Jones Snowboards pro team and an advocate for environmental conservation. In February 2014, he tragically died in an avalanche while filming in the Canadian Rockies. His legacy endures through his groundbreaking footage and the inspiration he provided to snowboarders worldwide.

Kevin Dann broke into first-grade rugby league as a fullback for the Penrith Panthers in the late 1970s. Over his career, he was recognized for his solid defence, safe handling under the high ball, and reliable goal-kicking. Dann played through the early 1980s, becoming a fan favourite for his consistent performances. After retiring from playing, he contributed to the sport by coaching and mentoring junior players. His legacy endures at the Panthers club and within the Australian rugby league community.