May 30

Born in 1904 in California, Floyd Roberts rose to prominence in the AAA Championship Car series. Earning the nickname “One-Shot” for his decisive driving style, he captured the 1938 Indianapolis 500 title. Known for his fearless approach on the track, Roberts became a beloved figure among racing fans. Tragically, he sustained fatal injuries in a crash during the 1939 Indy 500, cutting short a promising career. His legacy endures as one of the early stars of American open-wheel racing.

Born in 1918 in California, Bill Vukovich became a dominant force in the AAA Championship Car series during the early 1950s. He won back-to-back Indianapolis 500 races in 1953 and 1954, earning praise for his smooth yet aggressive approach. Nicknamed 'The Kilted Driver' for his Scottish ancestry, Vukovich was respected for his technical skill and determination. Tragically, he was killed in a racing accident during the 1955 Indy 500, shortly after taking the lead. His legacy endures as one of America’s most talented and fearless open-wheel drivers.

Piero Carini was an Italian racing driver who competed at the top levels of motorsport in the early 1950s. Born in Borgo a Buggiano in 1921, he began his career with Alfa Romeo before joining the factory Ferrari team. He secured class victories in prestigious races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Mille Miglia. Carini was known for his technical skill, bravery, and strong partnership with co-drivers. His career was tragically cut short when he died in a crash during practice at the 1957 Mille Miglia. His legacy continues to be celebrated by historic racing enthusiasts worldwide.

Eddie Sachs was an American open-wheel racer who became a fixture at the Indianapolis 500 from 1958 to 1964. Born in 1927, Sachs earned the nickname "The Madison Wild Child" for his fearless driving style. He achieved three podium finishes at Indy, showcasing consistent speed and determination on the oval. Sachs was admired for his sportsmanship and dedication to improving safety measures in motorsport. Tragically, he died in a fiery crash at the start of the 1964 Indianapolis 500. His legacy endures as one of the era's most respected and daring American racers.

Steve Prefontaine was a charismatic American distance runner who dominated U.S. track events in the early 1970s. Born in Coos Bay, Oregon in 1951, he earned a reputation for front-running and fearless racing tactics. He set 13 American records from 2,000 to 10,000 meters during his collegiate and professional career. Prefontaine’s dynamic personality made him a youthful icon for running and fitness in the United States. He tragically died in a car accident at the age of 24, leaving behind a legacy of ambition and sportsmanship. His spirit continues to influence runners and has been celebrated in films and books.

Tatsuo Shimabuku (1908–1975) was a pioneering Japanese martial artist who founded the Isshin-ryū style of karate. He studied under Chotoku Kyan and blended techniques from Shorin-ryu and Goju-ryu to develop his own system. In 1956, he opened the first Isshin-ryū dojo in Okinawa, emphasizing efficiency and practical self-defense. He emphasized the use of the vertical fist and powerful snap punches. His teachings spread internationally through his students, making Isshin-ryū one of the most practiced karate styles worldwide. Shimabuku's legacy endures through countless dojos and practitioners dedicated to his vision of martial arts.

Maximillian George Carnarius, known as Max Carey (1890–1976), was an American professional baseball outfielder known for his exceptional speed and base stealing prowess. He played 19 seasons in Major League Baseball, mostly with the Pittsburgh Pirates, leading the National League in stolen bases ten times. Carey won two World Series championships with the Pirates and later served as a coach and manager for the Brooklyn Robins. Respected for his leadership, he helped shape baseball strategies during the early 20th century. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1961. Carey's contributions left a lasting impact on baseball's small-ball tactics.

Don Ashby (1955–1981) was a Canadian professional ice hockey centre who played in the National Hockey League during the late 1970s. He began his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs before skating for the Colorado Rockies. Known for his speed and scoring touch, Ashby recorded 56 points in his rookie NHL season. He also represented Canada in international competition, including the 1976 Canada Cup. Tragically, his life was cut short in a car accident at age 26. Teammates remember him for his skill, dedication, and warm personality.

Born in 1955 in Rome, Agostino Di Bartolomei rose through AS Roma’s youth system and became the team’s captain in the late 1970s. He led Roma to their first Serie A title in 1982–83, famously scoring the decisive penalty in the championship-clinching match. Known for his precise passing, tactical intelligence, and dead-ball expertise, Di Bartolomei was a central figure in Roma’s golden era. He later played for AC Milan and Salernitana before retiring. Struggling with personal challenges after his playing career, he tragically died in 1994. His dedication and skill continue to be celebrated by Roma supporters as a symbol of club loyalty.

Born in 1912 in Southampton, Ted Drake became one of Arsenal’s most prolific strikers in the 1930s, helping the club win two First Division titles. He was known for his powerful shot and clinical finishing, leading Arsenal to the FA Cup victory in 1936. After retiring as a player, Drake took charge of Chelsea in 1952 and led them to their first ever league championship in 1954–55. He modernized training methods and emphasized physical fitness, laying the groundwork for Chelsea’s future successes. Later, he worked in scouting and coaching roles, contributing to the development of English football talent. Drake passed away in 1995, leaving a legacy as both a remarkable player and a pioneering manager.

Born in 1951 in Southampton, Bobby Stokes joined his hometown club and quickly became a first-team regular. On May 1, 1976, he scored the only goal in the FA Cup Final, delivering Southampton’s first major trophy. Stokes’s composure and clinical finishing earned him cult status among supporters. After Southampton, he had brief spells at Portsmouth and Hadleigh United before retiring from professional football. Post-retirement, he remained active in local football circles and community events. Stokes passed away in 1995, but his iconic cup final strike remains celebrated in Southampton’s history.

Alma Ziegler played as an infielder in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during the 1940s. She was recognized for her defensive prowess and reliable batting around the infield. Ziegler's athletic contributions helped her team secure multiple victories in a pioneering women's sports league. After retiring from baseball, she embarked on a career as a stenographer. Her legacy highlights the groundbreaking role of women in professional sports.