February 25

Mathias Zdarsky was a Czech-Austrian innovator who laid the foundations of modern Alpine skiing. He developed the 'Lilienfelder Ski Method' and designed one of the first ski bindings for downhill travel. Beyond winter sports, Zdarsky was an accomplished painter and sculptor with exhibitions in Europe. His passion for mountain landscapes influenced both his artistic and sporting endeavors. Considered the father of Alpine skiing, his legacy endures in ski schools and competitions worldwide.

Francis 'King' Clancy was a legendary Canadian defenseman who starred for the Ottawa Senators in the 1920s and 1930s. He won three Stanley Cup championships with the Senators and was known for his skillful skating and leadership. After retiring as a player, Clancy became an NHL referee and later served as coach and general manager for the Toronto Maple Leafs. His versatile contributions to the game earned him induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1958. Clancy was celebrated for his sportsmanship and lifelong commitment to ice hockey. He remained involved in the sport as a scout and ambassador until his death in 1986.

Bobby Riggs (1918–1995) was an American tennis player and former world No. 1. He won the U.S. National Championships in 1939 and 1941 and reached the Wimbledon final in 1939. Riggs revived his career in the 1970s with high-profile exhibition matches. His 1973 'Battle of the Sexes' against Billie Jean King drew global attention to gender equality in sport. Known for his showmanship and strategic play, he remained a popular figure late into his life. Riggs’s flamboyant persona and sporting achievements made him a legendary character in tennis history.

Monte Irvin (1919–2016) was an American baseball outfielder and executive. He starred for the Newark Eagles in the Negro American League, winning the 1946 Negro World Series. Irvin joined the New York Giants in 1949, becoming one of the early Black players in MLB’s modern era. He helped lead the Giants to victory in the 1954 World Series. After retiring as a player, Irvin served as a scout and advisor in professional baseball. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973, he is remembered as a pioneer and talent evaluator.

Andy Pafko was born in 1921 in Boyceville, Wisconsin, and made his MLB debut with the Chicago Cubs in 1943. Known for his strong arm and defensive skills in center field, he was selected to multiple All-Star games. Pafko famously witnessed Bobby Thomson's 'Shot Heard 'Round the World' home run in 1951. He later played for the Brooklyn Dodgers and Milwaukee Braves, helping the Braves win the 1957 World Series. After retiring as a player, he managed in the minor leagues and mentored younger players. His baseball career spanned over 18 seasons, and he is remembered as one of the game's reliable outfielders.

Paul Elvstrøm was born in 1928 in Hellerup, Denmark, and won four consecutive Olympic gold medals in sailing from 1948 to 1960. He dominated the Firefly and Finn classes and introduced innovations like the self-bailing cockpit. Beyond the Olympics, Elvstrøm claimed numerous world championships and developed sailing gear sold internationally. He authored books on sailing techniques and coached future champions around the world. Elvstrøm received Denmark's highest honors for his sporting achievements and contributions to sailing. He passed away in 2016, remembered as a visionary sailor and competitive force in the sport.

Tony Brooks emerged as one of Britain's first Formula One stars during the 1950s. Racing for teams like Vanwall and Ferrari, he secured six Grand Prix victories with skill and determination. His success in 1959 placed him second in the World Championship standings, inspiring a generation of British drivers. Known for his smooth driving style and calm demeanor, Brooks earned the nickname 'The Racing Dentist' early in his career. After retiring from racing, he pursued a business career but remained a beloved figure in motorsport history.

Tony Lema earned his affectionate nickname by celebrating his first PGA Tour win with champagne, a tradition he maintained throughout his career. His victory at the 1964 Open Championship at Royal Liverpool crowned him a major champion. Over his brief but brilliant career, he recorded five PGA Tour wins and was lauded for his smooth swing and affable personality. Tragically, his life and rising legacy were cut short in a plane crash in 1966. Despite his early death, Lema's sportsmanship and skill left a lasting impact on the world of golf.

Herb Elliott emerged as a leading middle-distance athlete in the late 1950s, earning his nickname 'Golden Boy' for his unbeaten streak. He won gold in the 1500m at the 1960 Rome Olympics and shattered the world record by over a second. Elliott set a world record in the mile that stood for six years, with a time of 3:54.5. Renowned for his powerful finishing kick and smooth running style, he retired at the peak of his career at age 22. After athletics, Elliott pursued a successful business career, serving as a company executive. His achievements remain a benchmark in middle-distance running history.

Farokh Engineer represented India in 46 Test matches between 1961 and 1975, serving as the team's wicket-keeper and middle-order batsman. Known for his flamboyant style and quick reflexes behind the stumps, he also contributed valuable runs with over 2,000 Test runs scored. Engineer was selected for the Rest of the World XI in 1970 and played county cricket for Lancashire, becoming a fan favorite. After retiring, he served as chairman of selectors for the Indian cricket team and contributed to cricket administration. His autobiography and commentary work have provided insights into the golden era of Indian cricket. Engineer is celebrated for his pioneering role in modernizing wicket-keeping techniques.

Ron Santo played 15 seasons as a third baseman for the Chicago Cubs, earning nine All-Star selections and five Gold Glove Awards. He posted a career .277 batting average with 342 home runs and became revered for his powerful hitting from both sides of the plate. After retiring in 1974, Santo transitioned to broadcasting, becoming the longtime color commentator for the Cubs on WGN-TV. He publicly battled diabetes, advocating for awareness and research, and helped raise millions through charity events. Despite being overlooked by the Hall of Fame during his lifetime, Santo was posthumously inducted in 2012. His passionate support of the Cubs and fearless personality made him a Chicago sports icon.

François Cevert debuted in Formula One in 1969 and became a prized protege of team owner Ken Tyrrell. He secured his first Grand Prix victory at Watkins Glen in 1971 and finished as runner-up in the World Championship standings in 1972. Known for his smooth driving style and genuine sportsmanship, Cevert was popular among peers and fans alike. In 1973, he tragically lost his life in a practice accident at the United States Grand Prix, at just 29 years old. His promise and achievements in a brief career have led many to regard him as one of the sport's brightest talents. Cevert's legacy endures in the memories of F1 enthusiasts and the trajectory of Tyrrell Racing.