April 07

David Kolehmainen was born in 1885 in Finland, then part of the Russian Empire. A talented Greco-Roman wrestler, he competed in the lightweight division at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics. He won national championships and was celebrated for his strength and technique on the mat. His athletic career was cut short by the turmoil of World War I and the Finnish Civil War. Kolehmainen’s dedication to his sport laid the foundation for Finland’s strong wrestling tradition.

Born in 1919, Roger Leger began his hockey career in local leagues before making his NHL debut in the early 1940s. He played as a centre for teams including the Montreal Canadiens and Detroit Red Wings, earning a reputation for his defensive reliability and work ethic. Leger appeared in over 200 NHL games, contributing key plays during playoff runs. After retiring from professional hockey in the late 1950s, he remained involved in the sport at the community level, coaching youth teams. He passed away in 1965, remembered for his steady presence on the ice and dedication to his teammates.

Born in 1919, Walt Hansgen began his racing career after World War II, competing in road races and endurance events. He achieved success in the Sports Car Championship, driving for teams such as Jaguar and Ferrari. Hansgen raced at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 12 Hours of Sebring, earning respect for his technical skill and versatility. In addition to sports car racing, he participated in IndyCar races, including the Indianapolis 500. Tragically, he lost his life in 1966 during practice for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, leaving a legacy as one of America's pioneering endurance racers.

Born in 1936 in Kilmany, Scotland, Jim Clark rose through the ranks of British racing clubs before joining Team Lotus in 1960. He won his first Formula One World Championship in 1963, securing seven victories and demonstrating unprecedented speed. Clark claimed a second championship in 1965 and accumulated 25 Grand Prix wins by the time of his death. Known for his natural talent and fearless style, he also excelled in other motorsport disciplines, including the Indianapolis 500. Clark tragically died in a crash during a Formula Two race in 1968, and he remains widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers in motorsport history.

Born in 1948 in Salzburg, Harald Ertl began racing in local touring car championships before making his Formula One debut in 1975 with the Embassy Hill team. While his F1 career comprised several lower-grid entries, Ertl found success in sports car and touring car races across Europe. Off the track, he worked as a journalist and photographer, contributing to automotive publications and bringing an insider's perspective to motorsport coverage. Ertl organized the Salzburg Grand Prix, using his industry connections to promote racing in Austria. He died in a crash during the 1982 Austrian Grand Prix support race, remembered for his dual role as competitor and chronicler of the sport.

Ace Bailey was a Canadian ice hockey forward who played for the Toronto Maple Leafs from 1926 to 1933. During his career, he was known for his scoring ability and sportsmanship. His playing days were cut short by a horrific on-ice injury that led to the first NHL All-Star benefit game held in his honor. Following his retirement, Bailey served as a coach and scout, contributing to the development of future hockey talent. He was one of the most respected figures in early NHL history. His story remains a poignant chapter in the league's heritage.

Antonis Tritsis was a distinguished Greek athlete and public servant. He competed as a high jumper in national and international track and field events during the late 1950s and early 1960s. After retiring from sports, Tritsis entered politics, eventually becoming the 71st Mayor of Athens. As mayor, he championed urban green spaces and environmental initiatives. His tenure was marked by efforts to modernize the city's infrastructure while preserving its historical heritage. Tritsis's dual legacy as both an Olympian and civic leader continues to inspire Greeks.

Albert Guðmundsson was a pioneering Icelandic footballer who became his country's first professional player when he signed with Racing Club Paris in the 1940s. He went on to play for clubs like AC Milan and Arsenal, earning acclaim as a skillful forward. After retiring from football, Guðmundsson transitioned to politics and served as Iceland's Minister of Industry and Commerce. Later, he was elected Mayor of Reykjavík, influencing urban development. He also led the national football association, shaping Icelandic soccer policy. Guðmundsson's legacy bridges sports and public service, marking him as a national icon.

Luis Aloma was a Cuban-American baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball for the Chicago Cubs in 1945 and 1946. Born in Havana in 1923, he was one of the early Cuban players to reach the major leagues. Over two seasons, he appeared in 28 games, recording a 4–3 win–loss record and a 3.63 ERA. Aloma's success helped pave the way for future Latin American athletes in professional baseball. After retiring from the diamond, he remained active in baseball communities until his death in 1997.

Cliff Allison (1932–2005) began his motorsport career in local club races before being signed by Team Lotus in 1961. He made his Formula One debut at the 1961 Dutch Grand Prix and earned his best finish of second place at the 1962 Belgian Grand Prix. Allison also drove sports cars for Ferrari, competing at events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Targa Florio. A serious crash at Reims in 1962 forced him to scale back his international commitments, after which he continued racing in national events. Known for his fearless driving style and technical feedback, Allison was respected by peers and team managers alike. He retired from professional motorsport in the mid-1960s and lived quietly until his passing in 2005.