May 17

Dorothy Levitt was born in 1882 in London and took up driving at a time when women behind the wheel were rare. In 1903, she set a women's land speed record of 91 mph at the Brighton Speed Trials, earning the nickname 'the fastest woman on Earth.' Levitt competed across Europe and North Africa, tackling challenging routes and mechanical setbacks with determination. In 1909, she published 'The Woman and the Car,' a groundbreaking handbook offering practical motoring advice for female drivers. As a journalist, she wrote for national publications, advocating for women's rights to independence and mobility. Levitt’s achievements in racing and writing made her an icon of early motoring and women's empowerment. Her pioneering spirit paved the way for future generations of female racers.

Born in Massillon, Ohio in 1888, Wilce excelled as a collegiate football player at Ohio State University. He served as head coach of the Buckeyes from 1913 to 1928, leading them to multiple Big Ten championships. Wilce introduced refined passing techniques and strategic formations that advanced the game of football. After retiring from coaching, he pursued medicine and became a respected physician and university lecturer. He embodied the scholar‐athlete ideal, balancing athletic success with academic and medical achievements. Wilce's dual contributions left a lasting legacy in both American sports and healthcare.

Gündüz Kılıç was a prominent Turkish footballer who spent his entire playing career at Galatasaray SK, where he was celebrated for his skill and vision on the pitch. After retiring, he became one of Turkey's most successful coaches, guiding Galatasaray to numerous league titles and introducing modern training methods. Nicknamed "Baba" (Father), he was instrumental in nurturing young talent and shaping Turkish football's future. Kılıç's passionate approach and tactical ingenuity left an enduring legacy at one of Turkey's biggest clubs. His contributions helped elevate the standards of coaching and player development across the country.

Joseph Hector "Toe" Blake was a celebrated Canadian centreman and coach in the National Hockey League. As a player with the Montreal Canadiens from 1936 to 1948, he won five Stanley Cups and was renowned for his scoring talent and leadership. Transitioning to coaching in the 1950s, Blake guided the Canadiens to eight Stanley Cup championships over 13 seasons. His strategic mind and ability to develop emerging talent cemented his status as one of hockey's greatest figures. After coaching, he served as team president and remained an influential presence in the organization. Blake was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame for his outstanding contributions to the sport.

Lembit Oll was an Estonian chess Grandmaster who gained international acclaim for his aggressive and imaginative playing style. He won several European tournaments and represented Estonia in multiple Chess Olympiads following the country's independence. In 1998, he achieved a peak FIDE rating of 2655, placing him among the world's top players. Oll was praised for his deep opening preparation and tactical creativity, often surprising opponents with novel ideas. His tragic death in 1999 cut short a flourishing career, but his games remain studied for their brilliance. Oll's influence persists in Estonian chess culture, inspiring future generations of players.

László Kubala was born in 1927 and became one of the most celebrated footballers of his era. A versatile forward, he starred for FC Barcelona and helped the club secure multiple domestic and European titles. His elegant playing style and goal-scoring prowess earned him legendary status among fans. He represented Czechoslovakia, Hungary, and Spain at international level. After retiring as a player, Kubala transitioned into coaching and management, including spells at FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. He was inducted into several football halls of fame in recognition of his impact on the sport. Kubala died in 2002, remembered as a pioneer of modern football.

Born in 1936 in Payette, Idaho, Harmon Killebrew became one of Major League Baseball's most feared sluggers. Playing primarily for the Minnesota Twins, he amassed 573 career home runs, ranking among the game's all-time leaders. Killebrew earned 13 All-Star selections, won the 1969 American League Most Valuable Player award, and led the league in home runs six times. After retiring, he served as a sportscaster and ambassador for youth baseball, promoting the game's values and traditions. His towering swing and sportsmanship made him a beloved figure among fans and peers. Killebrew passed away in 2011, and his legacy continues through the Harmon Killebrew Foundation's support of children's baseball.

Born in 1980, Patrick Mafisango began his professional career in Rwandan club football and quickly gained recognition for his skill and adaptability. He represented Rwanda in African Cup of Nations qualifiers and contributed important goals and defensive plays. Mafisango also played in the Congolese league, where his performances earned him praise from coaches and fans alike. Off the pitch, he was involved in youth coaching programs, mentoring aspiring footballers. His dedication to the sport and community made him a respected figure across two nations. Mafisango passed away in 2012, remembered for his impactful contributions to football in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Born in 1973, Philippe Gaumont entered the professional peloton with teams like Festina, where his aggressive riding style and time-trial strength stood out in races across Europe. He competed in prestigious events such as the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia, earning respect for his tenacity in the saddle. After retiring, Gaumont turned to coaching and advocacy, mentoring young cyclists and writing candidly about the challenges of professional racing. His openness about doping controversies sparked widespread discussion and contributed to the sport's ongoing fight for clean competition. Gaumont's dedication to cycling endured until his untimely death in 2013 at age 40.

Born in 1931, Ken Venturi emerged as a top amateur golfer before turning professional in the mid-1950s. His career peaked at the 1964 U.S. Open, where he captured his only major title with a dramatic final-day performance that is remembered as one of the sport's great displays of resilience. Known for his strategic insight and mental toughness, Venturi remained a competitive force throughout his playing career. After retiring from the tour due to health challenges, he transitioned to broadcasting, spending over three decades as a leading golf analyst for CBS Sports. Venturi also founded golf schools to mentor aspiring players, sharing his passion for the game until his death in 2013.

Born in 1930, Todor Veselinović began his career with FK Vojvodina before becoming a prolific striker for Red Star Belgrade, where he won multiple Yugoslav championships. He earned 37 caps for the Yugoslav national team, showcasing his talent at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics and the 1958 FIFA World Cup. Known for his aerial prowess and clinical finishing, Veselinović was among the top scorers in several European campaigns. After his playing days, he transitioned into management, taking charge of clubs in Italy, Greece, and North Africa and imparting his tactical knowledge. Honored for his contributions on and off the pitch, he remained a respected figure in football until his death in 2017.

Sid Going (1943–2024) was a legendary New Zealand rugby union halfback who represented the All Blacks from 1967 to 1977. Known for his electrifying sidestep and visionary passing, he redefined the halfback position. Going earned 29 Test caps and played a key role in the All Blacks' dominance in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He captained North Auckland province and later coached rugby, promoting the sport in Maori communities. His flair on the field and contributions off it made him an enduring icon of New Zealand rugby.