June 18

Geki (real name Giacomo Russo, 1937–1967) was an Italian racing driver noted for his successes in Formula Junior and brief forays into Formula One. He began his career in the mid-1950s, rapidly gaining a reputation for aggressive driving and technical skill. Geki won multiple races in the European Formula Junior circuit, showcasing promise as one of Italy's rising talents. He made his Formula One debut in 1964, competing in the Italian Grand Prix. Known for his fearless style and determination, Geki became a fan favorite. Tragically, he lost his life during practice for the 1967 Caserta Formula Three race. His death highlighted the dangers of motorsport in the era and commemorated the legacy of a promising talent gone too soon.

Beat Fehr (1942–1967) was a Swiss racing driver recognized for his talents in sports car racing and Formula Two competitions. Born in Zurich, he began racing in local events before moving to the international scene. Fehr competed with notable teams in endurance races, including the Targa Florio and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In 1967, he participated in several Formula Two races, demonstrating consistent pace and determination. On June 18, 1967, Fehr tragically lost his life in a crash during a Formula Two event at Silverstone. His passing underscored the perilous nature of motorsport at the time. Remembered for his skill and ambition, Fehr's career, though brief, left an imprint on Swiss racing history.

André Leducq (1904–1980) was a celebrated French professional road bicycle racer who dominated the 1930s cycling scene. He won the Tour de France twice, in 1930 and 1932, and secured multiple stage victories throughout his career. Known for his cheerful personality and attacking approach, Leducq became a national hero in France during a golden age of cycling. He also claimed the world road race championship in 1930, showcasing his versatility and endurance. After retiring from competition, he served as a team manager and cycling promoter, helping to develop the next generation of riders. Leducq’s legacy endures in the annals of cycling history, and he remains an emblematic figure of French sporting excellence. His name is still celebrated by enthusiasts and historians of the sport.

Larry Doby was born in Camden, South Carolina, in 1923 and broke baseball's color barrier in the American League by debuting with the Cleveland Indians in 1947. Just months after Jackie Robinson's debut in the National League, Doby faced immense pressure yet quickly proved his talent with powerful hitting and graceful defense. He helped lead the Indians to a World Series title in 1948 and was selected to multiple All-Star teams. After his playing career, Doby became one of the first African American coaches and later served as a manager for the Chicago White Sox. He remained an advocate for racial integration in sports throughout his life. Doby's contributions paved the way for countless athletes and left an indelible mark on the game.

Mushtaq Ali was born in Indore in 1914 and rose to fame for his elegant left-handed batting technique. In 1936, he became the first Indian to score a Test century at Lord's, endearing himself to cricket fans around the world. Ali played for India in the era before and after independence, featuring in 11 Test matches and numerous first-class games. His wristy strokeplay and flair made him one of the most entertaining batsmen of his generation. He also captained teams in domestic tournaments and was known for his sportsmanship and generosity to teammates. After retiring from playing, he served as a selector and coach, helping develop young talent in Indian cricket. Mushtaq Ali's contributions are remembered as a pioneering chapter in India's cricket history.

Born Michael Verdi in 1980, Trent Acid made a name for himself on the independent wrestling circuit in the late 1990s. He gained fame as part of the tag team 'The Backseat Boyz' in Combat Zone Wrestling, capturing multiple tag championships. Acid later wrestled for Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW), showcasing his agile moves and captivating charisma. Despite his in-ring success, he struggled with personal issues and tragically passed away at the age of 29. His innovative style influenced many young wrestlers in the hardcore wrestling scene. Trent Acid remains a cult figure for fans of independent wrestling.

Tom Maynard was born in 1989 in Cardiff, Wales and emerged as a talented left-handed batsman. He played for Glamorgan County Cricket Club and impressed with his aggressive strokeplay and athletic fielding. Maynard featured for the England Lions squad, showcasing his potential at the international level. His career was on the rise when he tragically died in a car accident in 2012 at the age of 23. He is fondly remembered by teammates and fans as a bright prospect whose life and career ended too soon.

Alketas Panagoulias was born in 1934 in Kavala, Greece and started his career as a football defender. He played for Greek clubs including Olympiacos and earned caps for the national team. After retiring as a player, he became a successful manager, winning league titles with Olympiacos and Panathinaikos. He led the United States national team during the 1980s and helped lay foundations for its future development. He returned to coach the Greek national team in the 1984 European Championship qualifiers. Panagoulias is remembered for his tactical expertise and contributions to football in both Greece and the United States. He passed away in 2012, leaving a mark as one of Greece's most respected football figures.

Danny Villanueva was a Mexican-American athlete born in 1937 who excelled as a placekicker in the NFL for the Los Angeles Rams and Dallas Cowboys. He led the league in extra points and field goals across multiple seasons. Following his athletic career, Villanueva transitioned to broadcasting, working with the Spanish International Network. As an executive, he helped co-found Univision, significantly expanding Spanish-language television in the United States. His leadership brought news, entertainment, and sports programming to millions of Hispanic viewers. Villanueva was inducted into the National Hispanic Hall of Fame for his dual impact in sports and media. He died in 2015, remembered for breaking barriers on and off the field.

Leon Allen White, known by his ring name Big Van Vader, made a name in both Japan and the United States.\nHe began his career as a gridiron football player before transitioning to professional wrestling.\nStanding over 6'4" and weighing nearly 300 pounds, he was famous for his agility and high-impact maneuvers.\nHe became a three-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame posthumously.\nHis intense in-ring style and charismatic presence influence wrestlers to this day.\nHe passed away in 2018 at age 63, leaving a lasting legacy on the sport.

Willie Mays, nicknamed 'The Say Hey Kid', is widely regarded as one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Over a 22-year Major League Baseball career, he excelled as a hitter, fielder, and base runner, amassing 660 home runs and 12 Gold Glove Awards. A 24-time All-Star and two-time National League MVP, Mays combined power and speed with defensive mastery in center field. His famous over-the-shoulder catch in the 1954 World Series remains one of baseball's most iconic moments. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979, Mays' influence extends beyond statistics, shaping generations of players. Off the field, he was admired for his charisma, sportsmanship, and contributions to the community.