March 09

Rupert Balfe was an accomplished Australian rules footballer who played for the University Football Club. He was celebrated for his agility and skill on the field during the early 1910s. With the outbreak of World War I, Balfe enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force. He served as a lieutenant on the Western Front and was killed in action in 1915. Balfe is remembered for his dual legacy in Australian sport and military history.

Born on March 9, 1920 in Sučić, Yugoslavia, Mihalić emerged as one of Europe's leading long-distance runners in the 1950s. He claimed the silver medal in the marathon at the 1956 Olympic Games in Melbourne, finishing just behind the winner. Mihalić also won the European Championship marathon in 1954 and set several national records. After retiring from competition, he became a respected coach, training athletes across Yugoslavia. His dedication to athletics and tactical racing style influenced generations of runners. Mihalić passed away on February 14, 2015, leaving a lasting legacy in middle and long-distance running.

Jackie Jensen was a standout Major League Baseball outfielder who played primarily for the Boston Red Sox. He emerged as one of the league's top sluggers and base stealers, earning American League Most Valuable Player honors in 1958. Jensen was a two-time All-Star selection and won three Gold Glove Awards for his defensive excellence in center field. Before his professional career, he was a multisport athlete at the University of California, Berkeley. Throughout his career, he compiled a .282 batting average with 192 home runs and 773 runs batted in. Jensen retired due to chronic health issues but left a lasting impact on the game as one of the era's most dynamic players.

Harry Neale is a Canadian former ice hockey player turned coach and sportscaster. He played junior hockey before moving behind the bench as head coach in the NHL, leading teams like the Vancouver Canucks and Buffalo Sabres. Neale later became a respected analyst, providing game commentary on television and radio for decades. His deep understanding of the sport and engaging on-air style earned him a wide audience. In addition to his NHL work, he served as a coach in international competitions, including the Canada Cup. Neale's contributions to hockey have been recognized with awards and hall of fame inductions. He remains a beloved figure in the hockey community.

Brian Redman is an English former racing driver celebrated for his achievements in international sports car and endurance events. He won multiple championships and prestigious races such as the 12 Hours of Sebring and the Targa Florio. Redman's smooth driving style and technical skill made him a favorite among top manufacturers including Porsche and Ferrari. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he competed in Formula 3, Formula 2, and various endurance championships. His versatility across racing categories earned him a reputation as one of Britain's most successful drivers. After retiring from competition, Redman continued to be involved in motorsport through coaching and historic racing. He remains an influential figure in the global racing community.

Jim Colbert turned professional in 1962 and joined the PGA Tour in 1964, winning eight Tour events throughout his career. Known for his distinctive red pants and reliable putting, he finished in the top ten of major championships on several occasions. After his peak playing years, Colbert became a popular golf commentator and analyst, sharing insights on televised tournaments. He also competed on the Champions Tour, adding senior wins to his record. Colbert's affable personality and achievements have made him a respected figure in the golf community.

Malcolm Smith began his racing career in the early 1960s and quickly became a dominant force in off-road motorcycle competitions. He won the Baja 1000 nine times and claimed multiple International Six Days Trials medals, cementing his legend in desert racing. Smith co-founded the Malcolm Smith Motorsports shop, becoming a leading importer of Japanese motorcycles to the West Coast. He authored motorcycle maintenance manuals and starred in the cult documentary On Any Sunday, introducing off-road racing to a wider audience. Smith's enduring influence on motorcycling continues through his company and his advocacy of the sport.

Robert James 'Bobby' Fischer became the youngest U.S. chess champion at age 14 and the youngest grandmaster at 15, showing prodigious talent from an early age. In 1972, he defeated Boris Spassky in Reykjavik to become the World Chess Champion, a match viewed as a Cold War spectacle. Fischer's deep opening preparations and innovative strategies transformed modern chess theory. Following his title victory, he withdrew from competitive play and lived a reclusive life, occasionally resurfacing for high-profile exhibitions. His 1992 rematch with Spassky and later legal controversies marked his later years. Fischer's genius and complex legacy continue to fascinate the chess world.

Lee Irvine was a prolific left-handed batsman who represented South Africa in international cricket during the 1960s. He played 13 Test matches, scoring 899 runs at an average of over 55. Irvine also enjoyed a successful county career with Middlesex, earning a reputation for his aggressive strokeplay. His Test career was cut short by South Africa's sporting isolation due to apartheid. After retiring, he remained involved in cricket coaching and development. Irvine's batting prowess is still remembered by cricket enthusiasts.

Bernd Hölzenbein was a German footballer renowned for his versatility and goal-scoring ability. He starred for Eintracht Frankfurt, winning the UEFA Cup in 1979 and becoming a club icon. Hölzenbein scored in the 1974 FIFA World Cup final, helping West Germany to victory. He earned 40 caps for his country between 1973 and 1978. After retiring as a player, he worked as a scout and coach, contributing to youth development. Hölzenbein passed away in 2024, leaving a legacy in German football history.

Doug Ault began his Major League Baseball career with the Toronto Blue Jays in their inaugural season of 1977. In the franchise’s first-ever game, he hit two home runs, including the team’s first historic homer. Ault played as a first baseman and outfielder over five MLB seasons with the Blue Jays and Texas Rangers. After retiring as a player, he managed in the minor leagues for several organizations, mentoring young talent. Known for his hitting prowess and leadership, Ault remained a respected figure in baseball circles. He passed away in 2004, but his contribution to Blue Jays history is still celebrated by fans.

Andy North turned professional in 1973 and played on the PGA Tour for over a decade. He captured major titles at the U.S. Open in both 1978 and 1979, earning his place among golf’s elite. North was known for his steady temperament and skill on challenging courses. Following his playing career, he became a lead analyst for ABC Sports and ESPN, bringing insight to golf broadcasts. He has served as a golfing ambassador, participating in senior tours and charity events. North’s dual success as a player and commentator has left a lasting mark on the sport.