April 26

Ernst Felle was born in 1876 in Germany. He pursued competitive rowing at a time when the sport was growing internationally. Felle competed in national regattas and represented Germany in rowing events. While detailed records of his achievements are scarce, he contributed to Germany's rowing community. He remained involved with the sport until his passing in 1959. Felle's participation helped lay the groundwork for future German rowing successes.

Born in Denver in 1897, Eddie Eagan won light heavyweight boxing gold at the 1920 Antwerp Olympics. He later transitioned to winter sports, capturing gold in the four-man bobsled at the 1932 Lake Placid Games. Eagan is the only competitor to win Olympic titles in both Summer and Winter editions. After retiring, he served as a boxing commissioner and sports administrator, promoting athletics nationwide. He passed away in 1967, leaving a unique mark on Olympic history and athlete versatility.

Born in 1900, Lewis Robert "Hack" Wilson rose to prominence with the Chicago Cubs in the late 1920s. In 1930, he drove in an astonishing 191 runs, establishing a single-season record that remains unbroken. Known for his powerful hitting and strong arm in the outfield, Wilson led the league in home runs and RBIs in multiple seasons. Despite his on-field success, he faced personal struggles and controversies throughout his career. Wilson's legacy endured long after his death in 1948, celebrated by baseball historians and fans for his extraordinary offensive achievements.

Sal Maglie (1917–1992) was an American Major League Baseball pitcher renowned for his aggressive, inside pitching that earned him the nickname "The Barber". He played for teams including the New York Giants, Cleveland Indians, and St. Louis Cardinals over a 12-year career. Maglie was a two-time All-Star and led the National League in earned run average in 1950. Known for his competitive spirit, he helped the Giants reach the World Series in 1951 and 1954. After retiring as a player, Maglie served as a coach and mentor to younger pitchers. His fierce pitching style left a lasting impression on the game and its fans.

Virgil Trucks (1917–2013) was an American Major League Baseball pitcher known for his remarkable 1952 season, in which he threw two no-hitters. Over a 15-year career with teams like the Detroit Tigers and Chicago White Sox, Trucks compiled more than 200 wins. He was part of the Tigers' 1945 and 1948 pennant-winning teams and selected as an All-Star in 1952. Trucks was celebrated for his powerful fastball and competitive tenacity on the mound. After retiring as a player, he contributed to baseball as a coach, scout, and club official. His two no-hitters in a single season remain a rare feat in MLB history, cementing his legacy.

Born in the Netherlands in 1918, Blankers-Koen emerged as a leading sprinter and hurdler in the 1930s. She became the first woman to win four Olympic gold medals in a single Games at London 1948 (100m, 200m, 80m hurdles, 4×100m relay). Known as the 'Flying Housewife,' she balanced athletic success with motherhood, inspiring future generations. Over her career, she set multiple world records across sprints and hurdles, showcasing remarkable versatility. Her trailblazing achievements helped elevate women's athletics on the global stage. Blankers-Koen remained active in sports administration after retirement and is celebrated as one of the greatest athletes of her era.

Born in Virginia in 1924, Ross served as a U.S. Army officer during World War II while competing as a long-distance runner. He represented the United States in the marathon at the 1948 London and 1952 Helsinki Olympics. Ross co-founded the Veterans Athletic Association, fostering community road racing in America. He set numerous American distance records and was instrumental in launching organized marathons nationwide. After retiring from competition, he coached aspiring athletes and advocated for the health benefits of running. His legacy endures in the widespread popularity of recreational and competitive road racing.

Born in 1927 in Roxana, Illinois, Harry Gallatin starred collegiately at Truman University before joining the NBA. He played nine seasons for the New York Knicks, earning seven consecutive All-Star selections and leading the league in rebounding. Nicknamed 'The Horse' for his durability and work ethic, Gallatin was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1991. After retiring as a player, he coached college and professional teams, including the St. Louis Hawks and Southern Illinois University. Gallatin remained active in basketball development until his passing in 2015.

Born in Richmond, Virginia, in 1927, Granny Hamner debuted with the Philadelphia Phillies at age 19 and quickly became the team's captain. He led the 'Whiz Kids' to the 1950 National League pennant and a World Series appearance with consistent batting and strong leadership. Hamner played ten seasons in the majors, including stints with the Kansas City Athletics. After retiring as a player, he scouted for the Phillies and coached in the minor leagues. His contributions earned him induction into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and a lasting place in baseball history.

Born in Eeklo, Belgium, in 1930, Roger Moens dominated the 800 meters during the 1950s, winning European titles in 1954 and 1958. He broke the 800m world record in 1955 with a time of 1:45.7, a mark that stood for nearly six years. At the 1960 Rome Olympics, Moens won a silver medal in a memorable race. After retiring from competition, he transitioned to sportscasting, becoming a familiar voice on Belgian radio and television for track and field coverage. His firsthand experience as an elite athlete added insight and credibility to his broadcasts. Moens has been honored by Belgian athletics federations for his lasting contributions to the sport.

Shirley Cawley represented Great Britain in international athletics during the early 1950s, specializing in the long jump. She earned national titles and showcased her talent at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, competing against the world's elite. Known for her strong technique and competitive spirit, Cawley also achieved top finishes in European events. Following her athletic career, she contributed to track and field as a coach and mentor, helping to develop future generations of British jumpers.

Jean-Pierre Beltoise began his career as a motorcycle racer, winning the 1964 French 500cc championship before switching to car racing. He made his Formula One debut with Matra in 1967 and secured his first and only Grand Prix victory at the 1972 Monaco Grand Prix. Over his F1 career, Beltoise achieved six podium finishes and became known for his technical skill and adaptability. Beyond Formula One, he excelled in endurance racing, claiming victories at the 1969 12 Hours of Sebring and 24 Hours of Le Mans. After retiring from driving, he served as a test driver and consultant, contributing his expertise to several racing teams. Beltoise's fearless style and dedication to motorsport left a lasting impact on French racing history.