May 16

Manny Ayulo (1921–1955) was a prominent American race car driver in the AAA Championship circuit. Known for his skill and daring on the track, he earned several podium finishes at the Indianapolis 500. Ayulo raced for noted teams and gained a reputation for consistency and speed. He tragically lost his life in a practice crash at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in May 1955. His promising career was cut short, but he is remembered for his talent and competitive spirit in American motorsports.

Born in 1928, Davis debuted for the Geelong Football Club in 1948 and became known for his role as a rover. He was a member of Geelong’s back-to-back premiership teams in 1951 and 1952. After retiring as a player, he coached Geelong from 1962, leading the club to a 1963 premiership. Davis later coached the Brisbane Bears and served as a commentator and advocate for Australian football. His dynamic playing style and leadership left a lasting impact on the sport. Davis passed away in 2011, remembered as a club legend and football pioneer.

Born in 1956, Kevin Hickey played college baseball at Southeastern Oklahoma State University before being drafted. He made his Major League debut with the Chicago White Sox in 1984, appearing in several games as a relief pitcher. Hickey recorded a 1–2 win-loss record and struck out 12 batters during his short stint in the majors. Following his time in MLB, he continued to play in the minors and winter leagues, showcasing his competitive spirit. After retiring from playing, he dedicated himself to coaching youth baseball, mentoring the next generation of pitchers. He died on May 16, 2012, remembered for his passion for the game and his impact on young athletes.

Born in 1957 in British Columbia, Bryan Illerbrun played junior football before joining the CFL in 1978. He spent the bulk of his career with the Saskatchewan Roughriders, becoming known for his toughness and consistency. Illerbrun played a key role in the Roughriders’ offensive line during their Grey Cup victories in 1989 and 1994. After retiring as a player, he contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor to young athletes in Canada. His dedication to the game left a lasting impact on Canadian football, earning him respect across the league. He passed away on May 16, 2013, and is remembered as one of the CFL’s reliable linemen.

Born in 1948 in Puerto Rico, Frankie Librán signed with the Kansas City Royals organization in 1966. He played several seasons in the minor leagues, showcasing his abilities at multiple infield positions. During the offseason, he starred in the Puerto Rican Winter League, earning a reputation for reliable play. Although he never reached the Major Leagues, Librán became a respected figure in Caribbean baseball circles. After retiring, he coached youth teams in Puerto Rico, passing on his love for the game to future generations. He died on May 16, 2013, remembered for his dedication and skill on the diamond.

Dick Trickle was born in Wisconsin in 1941 and began his racing career on local dirt tracks as a teenager. Over his lifetime, he amassed more than 1,200 feature victories across various classes, establishing himself as one of America's winningest drivers. Trickle entered NASCAR's premier series in the 1980s, achieving multiple top-ten finishes and earning the respect of fans and competitors alike. Known for his quiet demeanor off the track, he let his driving speak for itself, earning the moniker 'America's Winningest Driver.' Beyond driving, Trickle shared his expertise as a mentor to younger racers and remained active in the racing community. He passed away on May 16, 2013, and is remembered for his record-breaking achievements and passion for the sport.

Chris Duckworth was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe in 1933 and became a standout wicketkeeper for Rhodesia in domestic cricket. He made his Test debut for South Africa in 1959 against England, showcasing his reliable glove work and durable batting lower in the order. In his first-class career, Duckworth scored over 1,000 runs and took numerous catches, contributing significantly to Rhodesia's competitive performances. After retiring as a player, he devoted himself to coaching and mentoring young cricketers in both Zimbabwe and South Africa. His dedication to the sport helped nurture future talent and strengthen regional cricket programs. Duckworth passed away on May 16, 2014, and is remembered for his skill behind the stumps and his enduring commitment to cricket.

Vito Favero was born in the Veneto region of Italy in 1932 and turned professional in 1955. He achieved his greatest success by placing second overall in the 1958 Tour de France, demonstrating exceptional climbing abilities. Favero also earned stage podium finishes in the Giro d'Italia and competed in several editions of the Grand Tours throughout his career. Known for his resilient racing style and team spirit, he often supported leading riders in major competitions. After retiring from competition, he remained active in the cycling community by organizing regional races and mentoring young athletes. Favero passed away on May 16, 2014, and is remembered as a key figure in Italian cycling's golden era.

Bud Hollowell was born in Tampa, Florida in 1943 and excelled as a pitcher at the University of Florida. He signed with the California Angels and made his Major League debut in the mid-1960s. After his playing career, Hollowell transitioned into coaching and served as head coach for the University of Miami baseball team. He later became athletic director at the University of Georgia, overseeing multiple sports programs and championing student-athlete development. Known for his leadership and mentorship, he guided teams to conference championships and nurtured future professional players. Hollowell remained passionate about baseball and education throughout his life. He passed away on May 16, 2014, remembered for his significant contributions as both a player and coach.

Norman 'Norm' Green was born in 1932 in the United States, where he developed a passion for distance running while in college. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, he competed in numerous marathons, cross-country meets, and road races, earning recognition for his endurance and competitive spirit. Green represented regional teams in national championships and was known for his disciplined training regimen. Beyond his competitive career, he coached young athletes and promoted the sport in schools and community clubs. His contributions helped lay the groundwork for the growth of long-distance running programs in America. Green remained active in the running community, attending races and mentoring newcomers until his passing in 2023. He is remembered for his dedication to the sport and the athletes he inspired.