March 11

Born in York, Stoddart became one of England's leading cricketers by captaining the national team in five Test matches. He also toured Australia as captain of the 1899-1900 British Lions rugby side. A powerful batsman and skilled all-rounder, he scored heavily for Middlesex and toured internationally. He earned caps for England in rugby union, demonstrating remarkable versatility across sports. Later life struggles saw him face financial and mental health challenges before his death in 1915.

Campbell piloted the iconic 'Blue Bird' vehicles to claim world land speed titles throughout the 1920s and 1930s. He broke the 300 mph barrier in 1935 at the Bonneville Salt Flats, cementing his status as a speed pioneer. Before land records, he held water speed records in his hydroplane Blue Bird II. Knighted in 1931 for his achievements, he inspired future generations of motorsport enthusiasts. His autobiography recounts a life dedicated to thrill-seeking and mechanical innovation.

Matti Sippala was a Finnish athlete specializing in the javelin throw during the interwar period. He represented Finland at various national and international competitions, earning recognition for his technique and strength. Sippala contributed to Finland's strong tradition in javelin, a country known for producing world-class throwers. His athletic career spanned a time when Finland dominated the sport on the European stage. Though less well-known today, Sippala's dedication helped pave the way for future Finnish champions in track and field.

Vijay Hazare was a pioneering figure in Indian cricket, known for his elegant right-handed batting and effective medium-pace bowling. He became the first Indian to score a double century in first-class cricket and famously recorded a triple century against Pakistan. As captain, he led India in eight Test matches, inspiring his teammates with consistent all-round performances. His leadership helped establish India's competitiveness on the international stage during the early years of its Test history. He was a key member of the Indian team that toured England in 1946, showcasing his skills against top international bowlers. After retiring, Hazare served as a selector and cricket administrator, shaping future generations of Indian players. In 2009, he was posthumously inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame for his lasting impact on the sport.

Louise Brough was an American tennis legend who captured 35 Grand Slam titles, including singles, doubles, and mixed doubles victories. She won the Wimbledon singles championship in 1948 and reached multiple finals at the US Championships. Brough formed a dominant doubles partnership with Margaret Osborne duPont, securing numerous titles together. Her powerful serve-and-volley game and athleticism set new standards in women’s tennis. Brough was ranked world No. 1 in 1947 and remained a top player well into the early 1950s. After retiring, she became a respected coach and mentor for young tennis players. She was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1967.

Born in 1927 in East Chicago, Indiana. Played forward for the Minneapolis Lakers, winning NBA titles in 1950 and 1952. After retiring, became head coach of the New York Knicks from 1956 to 1958. Served as general manager of the Denver Nuggets, earning NBA Executive of the Year in 1985. Inducted into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame. Passed away in 2016 at age 89.

Born in 1929 in Cape Town, South Africa. Made his Test debut in 1951 against England as an opening batsman. Renowned for his steadfast, defensive technique and concentration at the crease. Scored three Test centuries and served as vice-captain of the national team. Toured England, Australia, and New Zealand, cementing his reputation. After retiring, contributed to cricket as an administrator and journalist. Passed away in 1998.

Arturo Merzario debuted in Formula One in 1972 and raced for teams like Ferrari and Williams. He is famed for rescuing a burning Niki Lauda from his crash at the 1976 German Grand Prix. Merzario founded his own team in 1979, fielding cars in F1 and sports car racing. He achieved his best F1 finish with a fourth place at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix. Beyond F1, he excelled in endurance races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Merzario remains celebrated for his bravery and contributions to motorsport development.

Dock Ellis played in Major League Baseball from 1968 to 1979, primarily with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He threw a legendary no-hitter on June 12, 1970, later admitting he was under the influence of LSD. Ellis was a three-time All-Star and helped the Pirates win the 1971 World Series. After retiring as a player, he coached in various leagues, mentoring young pitchers. He became an advocate for drug education and spoke openly about his struggles. Ellis's no-hitter remains one of baseball's most notorious and talked-about performances.

Jim McMillian was an American professional basketball forward known for his smooth shooting and versatility. He played college basketball at UCLA, winning an NCAA championship alongside legends like Lew Alcindor. Selected by the Los Angeles Lakers in the 1970 NBA Draft, he later helped the New York Knicks capture the 1973 NBA title. McMillian enjoyed a brief stint in Europe after his NBA career, showcasing his skills internationally. He transitioned into coaching and community outreach, leaving a lasting legacy in basketball before his passing in 2016.

Derek Daly is an Irish-American former professional racing driver known for his diverse motorsport career. He competed in Formula One from 1978 to 1982, racing for teams like Ensign and Tyrrell. Following F1, Daly achieved success in IndyCar and endurance racing, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. After retiring from driving, he transitioned to sportscasting, providing expert analysis for networks like ESPN. Daly's engaging personality and racing insights have made him a respected figure in motorsports broadcasting.

Leslie Anita Savel Cliff (born March 11, 1955) is a Canadian former swimmer known for her achievements in the 1970s. At the 1972 Munich Olympics, she won a silver medal in the 400-metre individual medley, becoming one of Canada’s youngest Olympic medalists. She also captured golds at the 1974 Commonwealth Games in the 200-metre and 400-metre individual medleys. Cliff held multiple Canadian records and was inducted into the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame. Following retirement, she has been active in promoting youth sports and aquatic programs.