April 26

Born in 1868 in Farnham, Surrey, Lockwood emerged as a fast bowler with remarkable pace and movement. He played for Surrey County Cricket Club, becoming one of the leading bowlers in the County Championship. Lockwood earned selection for England and participated in Test matches during the 1880s. Renowned for his aggressive style and ability to exploit uneven pitches, he often troubled top batsmen. After retiring, he contributed to the game as an umpire and coach. He passed away in 1932, leaving a lasting legacy in English cricket history.

Born in France in 1893, Violette Morris rose to prominence early in the 20th century thanks to her extraordinary athletic versatility. She excelled in football, shot put, and discus throw, setting multiple national records and challenging prevailing gender norms. Despite her athletic achievements, Morris was excluded from the 1928 Olympics due to her unconventional lifestyle and public persona. During World War II, she controversially collaborated with the German occupation forces, a decision that tarnished her legacy. Morris died under mysterious circumstances in 1944, her life embodying both pioneering sporting excellence and wartime controversy.

Born in 1868 on the island of Okinawa, Gichin Funakoshi is considered the father of modern karate. He introduced karate to mainland Japan in 1922 and established the Shotokan style, emphasizing form, discipline, and character. Funakoshi authored key texts such as 'Karate-Do Kyohan,' codifying techniques and philosophical teachings. Under his leadership, karate grew from a regional art to an international martial art practiced around the world. He passed away in 1957, leaving a legacy honored by karate practitioners in the Shotokan lineage and beyond.

Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) was a Japanese martial artist best known as the founder of aikido. He developed aikido in the early 20th century by synthesizing techniques from various jujutsu schools and the spiritual teachings of Omoto-kyo. Committed to the principles of harmony and nonviolence, he emphasized using an attacker's energy rather than brute force. His teachings combined martial efficacy with philosophical and spiritual elements, drawing followers from around the world. Under his leadership, aikido gained international popularity and became one of Japan's most influential martial arts. Even after his death, his vision of peaceful resolution through martial practice continues to inspire practitioners globally.

Sidney Franklin (1903-1976) was an American matador who broke cultural barriers by excelling in traditional Spanish bullfighting. Born in Los Angeles, he traveled to Mexico and Spain to train with prominent bullfighters, mastering the art and etiquette of the arena. Franklin became a celebrated figure in the 1920s and 1930s, earning acclaim for his bravery and elegant style. He was one of the first Americans to achieve fame in Spain's bullrings, captivating audiences with his skillful cape work. Beyond his performances, he wrote memoirs and articles that provided insight into the bullfighting world. His legacy endures as a trailblazer who brought international attention to an American in a traditionally Spanish sport.

Masutatsu Ōyama was a Japanese karate master recognized as the founder of Kyokushin kaikan. He studied various martial arts including judo and traditional karate. In 1964, he established the full-contact Kyokushin karate style, emphasizing realistic combat. Ōyama famously challenged practitioners worldwide in karate tournaments and public demonstrations. His dedication to rigorous training and discipline inspired generations of karateka. He authored several influential books on martial arts philosophy and technique. Through his work, he helped spread karate internationally and elevate its global profile.

Árpád Orbán (1938-2008) was a Hungarian footballer who played as a defender for Ferencvárosi TC during the 1960s. He became a regular starter, admired for his strong tackling and positional awareness. Orbán also earned several caps for the Hungarian national team, contributing to European Championship campaigns. His reliability and team-first mentality made him a respected figure on and off the pitch. Throughout his career, he demonstrated leadership and a deep passion for the game.

Terence Spinks (1938-2012) was a British boxer who captured the Olympic flyweight gold medal at the 1956 Melbourne Games as an amateur. He turned professional shortly afterward, competing in both the flyweight and bantamweight divisions. Spinks earned a reputation for his speed, technical skill, and sportsmanship in the ring. After retiring from competition, he worked as a boxing trainer, mentoring amateur fighters. His achievements inspired many within the British boxing community. Spinks is remembered as one of Britain’s finest post-war boxing talents.

Marcel Pronovost played over two decades in the NHL with the Detroit Red Wings and Toronto Maple Leafs. He won five Stanley Cup titles as a key defenseman during Detroit’s glory years in the 1950s. After retiring as a player, Pronovost served as a coach and scout, contributing to several NHL organizations. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1978 in recognition of his on-ice achievements. Pronovost was known for his reliable defensive play, leadership, and smooth skating. He remained active in hockey communities, mentoring young players and promoting the sport in Canada.