April 27

Born into a family of sports enthusiasts, Raoul-Duval became one of France's leading polo players at the turn of the 20th century. He represented a French team at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris, marking the debut of polo as an Olympic sport. Known for his horsemanship and tactical skill on the field, he helped raise the profile of polo in France. He competed regularly in domestic and international matches, often at the prestigious Bagatelle club grounds. His contributions helped establish France as a competitive polo nation during the sport's early modern era. Beyond his athletic pursuits, he was involved in organizing tournaments and promoting polo among the French elite.

Fane made his first-class debut for Essex in 1896 and quickly became one of the county's leading batsmen. He was selected for the England squad and made his Test debut in South Africa in 1897. Known for his elegant strokeplay and consistent scoring, he captained England during the 1906–07 tour of South Africa. Over a career spanning two decades, he scored more than 10,000 runs in first-class cricket. He also played Minor Counties cricket for Hertfordshire after retiring from the top level. Off the field, he was respected for his sportsmanship and later became a coach and mentor to young cricketers. His influence on English cricket endured well beyond his playing days.

Wood emerged as a talented amateur golfer competing in tournaments such as the U.S. Amateur and various state championships. He represented the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club and became known for his precise iron play and smooth swing. In 1901, he achieved his best U.S. Amateur finish, reaching the quarterfinals. He also participated in team matches and helped popularize the sport among American enthusiasts. Beyond his playing career, he served as a mentor to younger golfers and contributed to early golf journalism. His involvement during golf's formative years in the United States helped establish the foundation for future American champions.

Allen Sothoron was an American Major League Baseball pitcher whose career spanned from 1912 to 1926 with teams such as the St. Louis Cardinals and Boston Red Sox. Known for his left-handed delivery, he achieved a standout 20-win season in 1923. After hanging up his uniform, he transitioned to coaching and managed the St. Louis Browns in 1933. His baseball knowledge and competitive spirit earned him respect among teammates. Sothoron died in 1939, leaving behind a legacy as both a player and leader in the sport.

Rogers Hornsby was an American Major League Baseball second baseman known for his exceptional batting prowess. He won seven National League batting titles and finished his career with an astonishing .358 average, the highest in NL history. Hornsby was a two-time MVP and led the St. Louis Cardinals to their first World Series championship in 1926. After his playing days, he served as a player-manager and then manager for several clubs, including the Cardinals and Cubs. His strict training regimen and deep understanding of hitting mechanics influenced future generations. Hornsby was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1942 and remains a symbol of hitting excellence.

John Kuck (1905–1986) was an American track and field competitor best known for his victory in the shot put at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, where he set a new Olympic record. A versatile thrower, he also competed in javelin events at national championships and held multiple AAU titles. Kuck’s athletic prowess helped popularize field events in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s. After retiring from competition, he contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor for young athletes. His legacy endures in the record books and the history of American Olympic success.

Luz Long (1913–1943) secured the silver medal in the long jump at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, finishing just behind Jesse Owens. His sportsmanship and public friendship with Owens offered a powerful counter-narrative to Nazi racial ideologies. A decorated officer in the German army during World War II, Long was killed in action in Sicily. Remembered for his athletic excellence and humanistic spirit, he was inducted into Germany’s Sports Hall of Fame posthumously.

Enos Slaughter (1916–2002) enjoyed a 19-year Major League Baseball career, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals. He earned ten All-Star selections and won two World Series titles. His most iconic moment, the 'Mad Dash,' came in Game 7 of the 1946 Series, scoring the winning run from first base. After retiring as a player, Slaughter served as a minor league manager and coach. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1985, he is celebrated for his grit, hustle, and clutch performances.

Nina Ponomaryova (1929–2016) made history at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics by becoming the first Soviet woman to win a gold medal in discus throw. Her victory marked a significant achievement for Soviet athletics on the world stage. Ponomaryova set multiple national and European records during her competitive career, showcasing remarkable strength and technique. After retiring from competition, she devoted herself to coaching, mentoring a new generation of throwers. Her contributions to the sport were honored with induction into international athletics halls of fame.

Charles Robert Knox (1932–2018) earned the nickname ‘Ground Chuck’ for his emphasis on strong running games during head coaching stints with the Los Angeles Rams, Buffalo Bills, and Seattle Seahawks. Knox led three different teams to the playoffs, demonstrating his ability to build disciplined, hard-nosed squads. He was named NFL Coach of the Year three times (1973, 1980, 1984) in recognition of his success. Knox’s teams were known for their physical style of play and effective game management. Beyond the win column, he was respected as a mentor who helped develop future coaches and players throughout his career.

Derek Minter was one of the most celebrated motorcycle racers of the 1950s and 1960s, known for his fearless riding style and numerous victories across Europe. He earned the nickname “King of Brands” after dominating events at the Brands Hatch circuit. Minter competed with major factory teams and secured over 25 Grand Prix podium finishes during his career. After retiring from racing, he remained involved in the motorcycling community, mentoring young riders and preserving racing heritage. His passion for speed and competitive spirit left a lasting legacy in the world of motorsport.