April 25

Lorne Currie (1871–1926) was a French-English sailor renowned in the world of competitive yachting. He competed in national and international regattas, showcasing seamanship and strategic racing skills. Currie represented both France and England in prestigious sailing events, earning respect among his peers. His participation helped foster international camaraderie in the sport of sailing. Though detailed records of his victories are limited, Currie's legacy endures among early modern sailors. He exemplified the adventurous spirit of maritime competition in his era.

Charles Burgess Fry (1872–1956), known as C. B. Fry, was a remarkable English sportsman who achieved top honors in multiple disciplines. He played cricket for England, football for Southampton and Portsmouth, and held the world long jump record. After his athletic triumphs, Fry became a respected educator and diplomat, serving on the British Olympic Committee. He wrote sports columns and authored works on athletics. Fry's blend of athletic prowess and intellectual curiosity made him one of the most versatile figures in early 20th century British sport.

Ernest Webb (1874–1937) was an English-Canadian athlete who excelled in the sport of racewalking. He won two silver medals for Great Britain at the 1908 London Olympics in the 3,500-metre and 10-mile walk events. Webb's disciplined technique and endurance distinguished him among his contemporaries in an era when racewalking was gaining prominence. His Olympic success contributed to the early development of competitive walking as an athletic event. Webb's achievements remain a milestone in the history of British track and field sports.

William Merz was born in 1878 in Kansas City and became a standout American gymnast. At the 1904 Summer Olympics in St. Louis, he competed in individual gymnastics events and the team all-around, helping secure a silver medal for the United States. He was notable for his performances in the gymnastics triathlon, a three-event competition that tested versatility across horizontal bar, parallel bars, and vault. After retiring from competition, Merz dedicated himself to coaching at local athletic clubs, mentoring the next generation of gymnasts. His contributions helped establish gymnastics as a competitive sport in the United States, and he remained active in the community until his death in 1946.

Fred McLeod was born in Glasgow in 1882 and embarked on a career as a professional golfer in the first decades of the 20th century. He competed regularly in The Open Championship, where his steady play and precision putting earned him respect among peers. Beyond the majors, McLeod claimed several regional tournament victories across Scotland and Northern England. Later in his career, he served as a club professional at courses such as Turnberry, where he coached aspiring golfers and promoted the sport's growth. His dedication to the game spanned over five decades, and he remained a fixture in Scottish golf circles until his death in 1976.

Fred Haney was born in Redlands, California, in 1896 and debuted as a major league infielder in 1918 with the Brooklyn Robins. Over his playing career, he also appeared for the Chicago White Sox and St. Louis Cardinals, earning a reputation as a reliable fielder and strategist on the base paths. After retiring as a player, Haney transitioned to coaching and scouting roles, where his talent evaluation skills became evident. In the 1950s, he managed the Milwaukee Braves, guiding them to a National League pennant and mentoring stars such as Hank Aaron and Eddie Mathews. Haney's focus on player development and team cohesion marked his managerial tenure. He later served in various front-office roles before his death in 1977.

George Nēpia was born in 1905 in Wairoa, New Zealand. He joined the All Blacks at age 19, becoming the team's first Māori star. His agility, tactical kicking, and fearless defense helped shape the role of the fullback position. Nēpia played 40 matches on the famous 1924-25 'Invincibles' tour, which went undefeated. After rugby union turned professional, he became a coach and referee, promoting the sport globally. His autobiography and appearances helped popularize rugby in New Zealand and abroad. He was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame. Nēpia's legacy endures as a trailblazer for Māori athletes.

Conrado 'Connie' Marrero was born in 1911 in Sagua la Grande, Cuba. He dominated the Cuban League as a pitcher before signing with the Washington Senators in 1950 at age 38. In his rookie MLB season, he posted a 13-7 record and set a record as the oldest player with a Rookie of the Year vote. Known for his submarine style delivery, Marrero excelled for three seasons in the majors. After returning to Cuba, he continued to mentor young players and contribute to baseball development on the island. Marrero was inducted into the Cuban Baseball Hall of Fame and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His longevity in the sport extended well into his 90s as an ambassador for the game. He died in 2014, celebrated as one of Cuba’s greatest pitchers.

George James 'Ripper' Roth was born in 1911 in Spokane, Washington. He excelled in multiple gymnastics disciplines, earning a spot on the U.S. Olympic team in 1932. At the Los Angeles Games, he captured the all-around gold medal, becoming the first American to do so. Roth also helped the U.S. team win a silver medal in the team competition. After retiring from competition, he coached gymnastics at local clubs and college teams. He promoted physical fitness and gymnastics education across the Pacific Northwest. His Olympic triumph during the Great Depression inspired many young athletes. Roth’s legacy endures in American gymnastics history. He died in 1997, remembered as a pioneering figure in the sport.

Born in 1916 in the United States, Jerry Barber became a standout on the PGA Tour. He won multiple Tour events, including the 1961 PGA Championship at age 45. Known for his exceptional short game and putting skills, Barber earned the respect of his peers. He contributed to golf instruction and mentored younger players later in his career. Barber died in 1994, remembered as one of the sport’s great competitors.

Born in 1917 in France, Jean Lucas began his racing career after World War II. He participated in the early years of Formula One and competed in sports car events across Europe. Known for his skill and versatility, Lucas achieved several notable finishes in endurance races. After retiring from driving, he remained involved in motorsport as a team manager and mentor. Lucas died in 2003, remembered for his contributions to French racing heritage.

Born in 1919 in Norway, Finn Helgesen specialized in sprint distances in speed skating. He won the gold medal in the 500 meters at the 1948 Winter Olympics in St. Moritz. Helgesen set multiple national records and was celebrated for his explosive starts. After retiring, he remained involved in the sport as a coach and mentor. He died in 2011, remembered as one of Norway’s finest speed skaters.