April 23

John Peltz (1861-1906) was an American professional baseball player known for his speed and batting prowess. He debuted in the Major Leagues in the 1880s, playing for teams such as the St. Louis Browns and Baltimore Orioles. After his playing career, Peltz transitioned to managing in the minor leagues, where he mentored young talent. His involvement during baseball’s formative years helped solidify the game’s rules and professional standards. Peltz’s dedication to the sport contributed to its growth as America’s national pastime.

Folke Jansson was born in 1897 and emerged as one of Sweden's leading track and field athletes. He won the silver medal in high jump at the 1920 Antwerp Olympics. Jansson also claimed multiple Swedish national titles during his career. After retiring, he contributed to athletics in Sweden as a coach and official. His Olympic achievement inspired future generations of Swedish high jumpers.

Jim Bottomley was a standout first baseman for the St. Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds during baseball’s Golden Age. He won the National League Most Valuable Player award in 1928 after driving in 126 runs and helping the Cardinals to a World Series title. A consistent hitter, Bottomley compiled a career batting average of .310 with over 2,700 hits and 1,422 runs batted in. Nicknamed "Sunny Jim" for his upbeat personality, he became a fan favorite both on and off the field. After retiring as a player, he worked as a popular radio and television sportscaster. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974, cementing his legacy as one of the game’s most reliable offensive threats.

Clifford Bricker broke the 10,000-meter world record in 1928 and represented Canada at the Amsterdam and Los Angeles Olympics. He finished fourth in the 5,000 meters in 1928 and was a multiple-time national champion. Bricker’s achievements helped raise the profile of Canadian athletics on the world stage during the interwar period. Known for his endurance and disciplined training, he held Canadian records in both the 5,000 and 10,000 meters for several years. After retiring from competition, he remained involved in athletics as a coach and mentor. Bricker’s legacy endures in Canada’s long-distance running history.

Tony Lupien (1917-2004) was a left-handed first baseman who played for the Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago White Sox between 1940 and 1944. Known for his reliable defense and consistent hitting, he transitioned into coaching after his playing career ended. Lupien dedicated over two decades to mentoring young athletes at the collegiate level, shaping future generations of players. He was respected for his deep understanding of the game and his commitment to player development. Beyond the diamond, he remained active in community sports programs and youth development initiatives, leaving a lasting impact on American baseball.

Born in Buffalo, New York in 1921, Warren Spahn amassed 363 career victories - the most by any left-handed pitcher - during a career that spanned from 1942 to 1965. He spent the bulk of his career with the Boston and Milwaukee Braves, winning the 1957 Cy Young Award and a World Series title. After serving in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II, he returned to dominate the mound with his pinpoint control and devastating curveball. Upon retirement, Spahn shared his expertise as a coach and later as a radio broadcaster. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973, he remains a beloved icon of America's pastime.

Charles Byron Harmon (April 23, 1924 - March 19, 2019) was an American baseball player and scout. He broke the color barrier for the Cincinnati Reds when he made his Major League debut in 1954. Harmon played as a versatile infielder and outfielder over three seasons in the National League. After retiring from the field, he scouted for major league organizations for more than forty years. He was known for his dedication to talent evaluation and his mentorship of young players. In 2010, he was inducted into the Ohio Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his achievements. Harmon left a lasting legacy by advancing integration and promoting excellence in America's pastime.

Jim Fixx (James Fuller Fixx; April 23, 1932 - July 20, 1984) was an American author and runner whose 1977 bestseller The Complete Book of Running sparked a nationwide fitness boom. Taking up running later in life, he transformed his health and documented his journey, inspiring millions to adopt jogging as exercise. Fixx appeared on television and lectured widely on the benefits of running, blending personal anecdotes with practical advice. His book remained a foundational guide for recreational runners for decades. Ironically, he suffered a fatal heart attack during a run at the age of 52, highlighting the complexities of cardiovascular fitness. Fixx's advocacy contributed to the growth of jogging clubs and mass-participation races. His impact endures in the enduring popularity of running as a healthy lifestyle choice.

David Mills (1937–2013) was an English cricketer who appeared in domestic competitions during the 1950s and 1960s. A dedicated player, he competed in several first-class matches representing county teams. Known for his sportsmanship and commitment to the game, he made notable contributions to his side’s performances. After retiring, he remained involved in cricket through coaching and mentorship. His passion for the sport left a lasting impression on teammates and fans alike.

Barry Shepherd (1937–2001) was an Australian cricketer who represented his state in domestic competitions during the 1950s and 1960s. An accomplished batsman and part-time bowler, he earned respect for his versatility on the field. Shepherd played key roles in several memorable matches and was valued for his team spirit. Following his playing career, he contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor of young athletes. His dedication to cricket enriched the Australian domestic game.

Michael Kadosh was born in 1940 in Israel and began his professional football career in the Israeli Premier League. Known for his leadership and tactical understanding on the field, he made numerous league appearances during the 1960s and 1970s. After retiring as a player, Kadosh transitioned into management, leading several clubs in Israel’s top divisions. He earned respect for his ability to develop young talent and improve team performance. In recognition of his contributions to Israeli football, he remained involved in the sport as an advisor and mentor until his death in 2014.

Arie den Hartog was born in 1941 in Zuidland, Netherlands, and took up competitive cycling at a young age. He achieved his first major victory at the 1965 Milan–San Remo, one of cycling’s five monuments. Den Hartog added another prestigious win at the 1967 Amstel Gold Race, cementing his reputation in the professional peloton. Known for his strong sprint and strategic race sense, he rode for top Dutch teams throughout the 1960s. After retiring from competition, he remained involved in cycling as a mentor and occasional coach for young riders. His successes helped pave the way for future generations of Dutch cyclists. Den Hartog passed away in 2018, leaving behind a celebrated legacy in classic road racing.