April 14

One of Australia's earliest cricket stars, he was celebrated for his elegant batting technique and sharp fielding. Gregory made his Test debut in 1890 and went on to play 58 matches for his country, serving as captain on multiple occasions. Domestically, he represented New South Wales with distinction for over two decades. Known for his sportsmanship, he set standards for professionalism in the game. His contributions helped elevate Australian cricket on the international stage.

Otto Lasanen was a Finnish Greco-Roman wrestler who represented Finland at the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm. Born in Tampere, he trained in local wrestling clubs and rose through national competitions. Although he did not medal, Lasanen’s Olympic participation contributed to Finland’s emerging reputation in international wrestling. After his athletic career, he remained involved in sport as a coach and mentor to younger wrestlers. His dedication helped lay the groundwork for future Finnish champions in international wrestling events.

Sylvio Mantha was a standout defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens from 1923 to 1937, captaining the team and helping secure two Stanley Cup championships. Known for his robust defensive play and leadership on the ice, he accumulated over 100 career points. In recognition of his achievements, Mantha was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1960. After retiring as a player, he coached the Canadiens during the 1940-41 season and served as an NHL referee and linesman. His contributions helped shape the early era of professional hockey in Canada. He passed away in 1974, remembered as one of the sport's pioneering figures.

Ruth Svedberg represented Sweden at the 1924 Summer Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the women's discus throw in Paris. Beyond her Olympic success, she competed in triathlon competitions, showcasing her versatility across multiple athletic disciplines. Svedberg was a national champion, dominating Swedish field events throughout the 1920s. She balanced training in throwing events with endurance challenges, helping popularize women's participation in combined sports. After retiring from competition, she remained active in promoting athletics and mentoring young sportswomen. Svedberg passed away in 2002, remembered as one of Sweden's pioneering female athletes.

Georg Lammers was a leading German sprinter of the late 1920s, representing his country at the 1928 Summer Olympics in Amsterdam. He competed in the individual 100m and as part of Germany's 4×100m relay team, showcasing his speed on the international stage. Lammers also secured multiple national titles in sprint events, earning recognition at home. After retiring from competition, he contributed to athletics as a coach and sports official, sharing his expertise with young athletes. His dedication to the sport helped foster Germany's track and field programs in the interwar period. Lammers passed away in 1987, remembered for his Olympic legacy and commitment to athletics development.

Georg Siimenson was known for his skillful play and goal-scoring ability on the football field. He played for top Estonian clubs and earned numerous caps for the national team, becoming one of its leading scorers. Siimenson’s agility and technique made him a standout athlete in pre- and post-war Estonian football. Despite interruptions due to World War II, he returned to the sport and continued to excel. His contributions helped popularize football in Estonia and inspired future generations of players.

Roberto De Vicenzo (1923–2017) was an Argentinian professional golfer whose smooth swing and sportsmanship earned him international recognition. He recorded over 100 professional victories, highlighted by his triumph at the 1967 Open Championship at Royal Liverpool. De Vicenzo represented Argentina in the Ryder Cup and became an enduring ambassador for Latin American golf. His career was marked by the infamous 1968 Masters scorecard incident, which serves as a cautionary tale in sports history. Inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1989, he continued to mentor young golfers after retiring.

Paul Masnick made his NHL debut in the early 1950s, playing as a forward for teams such as the Montreal Canadiens and Chicago Black Hawks. During his career, he was valued for his work ethic, versatility, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Masnick contributed to his teams with consistent play, demonstrating strong skating and puck-handling abilities. After retiring from professional hockey, he remained involved in the sport at the community level, sharing his passion with younger players. His dedication to the game was remembered fondly following his passing in 2024.

Born in Belfast in 1933, Paddy Hopkirk began his motorsport career in the 1950s, quickly establishing himself in rally racing. His defining achievement came in 1964, when he won the Monte Carlo Rally in a Mini Cooper S, cementing his status as a driving icon. Hopkirk also claimed multiple victories in the Circuit of Ireland Rally and other European events. Known for his precise driving style and mechanical understanding, he later founded a rally driving school and enthusiast museum. He was honored with an MBE for his services to motoring and remained a celebrated figure until his passing in 2022.

Born in 1935, Susan Cunliffe-Lister contracted poliomyelitis in early childhood, an experience that shaped her lifelong advocacy. She rose to prominence as a Paralympic table tennis player and swimmer, winning multiple medals at international competitions. In 1970 she was appointed Baroness Masham of Ilton and took her seat in the House of Lords, where she championed healthcare and disability issues. Baroness Masham founded the Spinal Injuries Association and worked tirelessly to improve services for people with disabilities. Her dedication was recognized with numerous honors, and she remained an influential figure until her passing in 2023.

Born in 1936 in Louisville, Kentucky, Bobby Nichols turned professional in 1957. He captured his lone major title at the 1964 PGA Championship, setting a scoring record that stood for decades. Nichols won eight PGA Tour events and represented the United States in the Ryder Cup. His calm demeanor and precise shot-making earned him respect among his peers. After retiring from the tour, he remained active in golf through coaching and charitable events.

Pete Rose was born in 1941 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He played 24 seasons in Major League Baseball, primarily with the Cincinnati Reds, earning the nickname "Charlie Hustle." Rose set the MLB record for career hits with 4,256 and was a 17-time All-Star. After his playing career, he managed the Philadelphia Phillies and Cincinnati Reds. His involvement in a betting scandal led to a lifetime ban from baseball, yet his on-field achievements remain legendary.