May 24

Born in St Andrews in 1821, Old Tom Morris was one of the founders of modern golf. He won The Open Championship four times (1861, 1862, 1864, and 1867), becoming the sport’s first great champion. Morris served as the greenskeeper and club professional at St Andrews, introducing standardized course maintenance techniques. He designed and remodeled many courses, including Royal Dornoch and Muirfield, and his innovations shaped course architecture worldwide. Morris’s dedication to the game and his legendary performances laid the groundwork for professional golf.

Herbert Müller gained acclaim as a versatile endurance racer in the 1960s and 70s. Born in 1940, he competed in events across Europe, prominently at Le Mans and Nürburgring. His precision and consistency earned him class victories and the respect of fellow drivers. Müller drove for top manufacturers including Ferrari and Porsche in sports car championships. His career was marked by teamwork and technical feedback that improved race car performance. He tragically lost his life in a racing accident in 1981, leaving a legacy of dedication and sportsmanship.

Freddie Frith won the inaugural 350cc Motorcycle Grand Prix World Championship in 1949. Born in 1909, he was known for his smooth riding style and technical prowess. He competed with Norton teams, achieving multiple Grand Prix victories. Frith also excelled in endurance road races, demonstrating exceptional consistency. After retiring, he contributed to motorcycle development and mentored young riders. His accomplishments paved the way for modern Grand Prix racing.

Hitoshi Ogawa excelled in Japanese Formula Two, winning the 1987 championship title. Born in 1956, he also competed in endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans. His technical feedback was highly valued by teams, leading to multiple podium finishes. Ogawa s skill and determination made him one of Japans leading open wheel racers. His career was tragically cut short when he died in a racing accident in 1992. He is remembered as a trailblazer for Japanese drivers on the international stage.

Born in Santa Fe in 1925, Juan Francisco Lombardo was a commanding defender renowned for his tackling and leadership. He began his professional career with Newell's Old Boys before moving to Boca Juniors, where he won two league titles. Between 1952 and 1958, he earned 32 caps with the Argentina national team and played a key role in the 1958 FIFA World Cup squad. Lombardo's robust style and consistency made him a fan favorite during a golden era of Argentine football. After retiring from playing, he remained involved in the sport until his passing in 2012.

Ron Davies was born in Machynlleth, Wales, in 1942 and began his professional career with Cardiff City. As a center forward, he led Southampton's scoring charts with 35 goals in the 1966–67 season. He earned four caps for the Wales national team between 1960 and 1961, contributing to their competitive performances. Nicknamed "The Davies of Mach," his combination of strength and finishing made him a legendary figure at both club and national level. After retiring, he remained active in coaching youth players until his death in 2013.

David Allen was born in Herefordshire in 1935 and became a prominent off-spin bowler for Worcestershire County Cricket Club. He appeared in 39 Test matches for England between 1959 and 1967, taking 111 wickets with his flighted spin. Known for his accuracy and subtle variations, Allen played a key role in England’s spinner-led attacks of the 1960s. After retiring, he served as Worcestershire’s coach and selector, contributing to the development of future talent. His passion for the game remained evident through his lifelong involvement in cricket until his death in 2014.

Dean Carroll (1962–2015) was a professional English rugby league footballer. He played as a forward for clubs including Wakefield Trinity and Dewsbury. Renowned for his physicality and endurance, he became a fan favorite. Carroll’s career spanned a decade of competitive league play. After retirement, he remained involved in youth coaching and community outreach. His dedication to the sport inspired many young athletes.

Gary Pierce (1951–2025) was an English professional football goalkeeper who made hundreds of league appearances during the 1970s and early 1980s. He began his senior career with Sheffield Wednesday and later played for Blackpool, earning a reputation for his reliable shot-stopping abilities. Pierce was admired for his consistency and calm presence under pressure, which made him a fan favorite at his clubs. Over his career, he became known as a hard-working and dependable last line of defense. He retired from professional football in the early 1980s and remained respected in the football community. In 2025, he passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to the sport.