March 14

Firmin Lambot was a Belgian road racing cyclist active in the early 20th century. He won the Tour de France in 1919 and again in 1922, demonstrating remarkable endurance. Lambot's achievements came during the challenging post-World War I era of cycling. He was celebrated for his resilience and tactical skill on mountainous stages. Beyond the Tour, he competed in numerous classic races across Europe. Lambot's success inspired future generations of Belgian cyclists. His legacy is remembered in the annals of professional cycling.

Sid Atkinson was a South African athlete specializing in the 110m hurdles and long jump. He represented South Africa at the 1924 and 1928 Summer Olympics, achieving his greatest success in Amsterdam. In 1928, Atkinson won gold in the 110m hurdles, clocking a remarkable time of 14.8 seconds. He also competed in long jump events, showcasing his versatility on the track. Atkinson's athletic achievements contributed to South Africa's early Olympic history. After retiring from competition, he remained involved in athletics as a coach and mentor. His Olympic victory remains a highlight of his career and a source of national pride.

Cliff Bastin became one of Arsenal’s all-time leading goal scorers after joining the club in 1929. Born in 1912, he netted 178 goals in 350 appearances and won multiple First Division titles and an FA Cup. Known for his pace and finishing, Bastin earned 21 caps for England, scoring 12 international goals. His partnership with fellow forwards helped define Arsenal’s dominant style under manager Herbert Chapman. After retiring, he contributed to football as a coach and scout. Bastin’s legacy endures as a pioneer of the modern winger role in English football.

Born in 1914, Lee Petty became one of NASCAR's earliest superstars. He won three NASCAR championships and claimed victory in the inaugural Daytona 500 in 1959. In 1949, Petty founded Petty Enterprises, which evolved into one of the sport's most successful teams. As patriarch of the Petty family, he mentored his son Richard Petty, who would go on to become one of racing's greatest legends. Petty's contributions laid the foundation for modern stock car racing, and the Petty legacy continues in motorsports today.

Dorothy Tyler-Odam made history at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, claiming a silver medal in the high jump. Four years later, she again captured silver at the 1948 London Games, becoming the first British woman to win an Olympic athletics medal. Her achievements inspired generations of female athletes in track and field. She also won gold and silver medals at the British Empire Games, showcasing her longevity in a sport dominated by youth. Over a career spanning two decades, she set multiple national records and was honored in the England Athletics Hall of Fame. She remained active in the athletics community well into her later years, advocating for sports participation across all ages.

Chuck Share was selected as the first overall pick in the 1950 NBA Draft by the Boston Celtics, marking an historic start to his professional career. A dominant center standing 6'11", he helped the Rochester Royals win the NBA championship in 1951. Share later played for the Milwaukee Hawks, Fort Wayne Pistons, and St. Louis Hawks, earning a reputation as a skilled defender and rebounder. After retiring from basketball, he pursued a career in education, teaching mathematics and coaching high school teams. He is remembered as a pioneering figure in the early years of the NBA.

Born in Belleville, Illinois, in 1929, Bob Goalby turned professional in 1952 and quickly established himself on the PGA Tour. His most memorable victory came at the 1968 Masters, where he claimed the green jacket after a controversial scoring error by competitor Roberto De Vicenzo. Goalby won eight PGA Tour events and served as a rules official and commentator after retiring from competitive play. He was revered for his steady swing and sportsmanship. Goalby's influence extended beyond his titles, as he mentored younger players and contributed to golf's growing popularity in the 1960s and 1970s.

Born in Carterton, New Zealand, in 1936, Bob Charles turned professional in 1959 and quickly became one of golf's leading figures. He made history by winning The Open Championship in 1963, becoming the first left-handed golfer to secure a major title. Charles claimed 80 professional victories worldwide and was named New Zealand Sportsman of the Year in 1963. Knighted in 1999 for services to golf, he continued playing competitively on the senior tour. His consistent putting and smooth swing earned him respect, and he served as an ambassador for the game, inspiring future generations of golfers.

Born in Cape Town in 1937, Peter van der Merwe played first-class cricket before transitioning to officiating matches. He represented Transvaal as a right-handed batsman and occasional wicketkeeper in the 1950s and 1960s. After retiring as a player, van der Merwe became a cricket umpire, standing in both domestic and international fixtures. He was praised for his fairness, calm demeanor, and deep understanding of the game. Van der Merwe contributed to cricket development in South Africa during a transformative era. He passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of integrity in the sport.

John Gleeson (March 14, 1938 – 2016) was an Australian cricketer celebrated for his distinctive style of off-spin bowling. Nicknamed 'The Professor' for his clever use of flight and spin, he made his Test debut in the 1960s and took 44 wickets in nine matches. At the domestic level, Gleeson represented Queensland and challenged batsmen with his deceptive deliveries. After retiring, he devoted himself to coaching and mentoring young spin bowlers, sharing the nuances of his craft. His innovative approach continues to inspire generations of spin enthusiasts in Australia and beyond.

Clyde Lee was an American professional basketball player known for his tenacious defense and rebounding. He played collegiate basketball at the University of Houston before being drafted by the Chicago Zephyrs in 1966. Lee spent seven seasons in the NBA, including a stint with the Baltimore Bullets, and consistently ranked among league leaders in rebounds. Standing 6-foot-9, he was a versatile forward capable of playing inside and mid-range. After retiring, he stayed involved in basketball through coaching clinics and youth programs. Lee's impact is remembered by fans for his work ethic and team-oriented play.