July 26

Antonio Ascari was born in 1888 in Bologna, Italy. He began his racing career in 1911 and quickly earned a reputation for speed and daring driving. Ascari joined Alfa Romeo and achieved his greatest victory at the 1924 French Grand Prix. His fierce competitiveness helped establish Alfa Romeo's early motorsport legacy. Known for his aggressive style, he tragically died in a crash at the 1925 French Grand Prix. He was the father of later World Champion Alberto Ascari, cementing the family's motorsport heritage.

Francis Curzon, 5th Earl Howe, was born in 1884 into a distinguished British aristocratic family. He developed a passion for motor racing, participating in early Grand Prix and European endurance events. Curzon inherited his title in 1929 and took his seat in the House of Lords, where he served on several committees focused on public infrastructure. Known for his daring driving style and dignified public persona, he bridged the worlds of sport and politics. Curzon's pioneering efforts in racing and his commitment to public service left a lasting impression on British society. He passed away on July 26, 1964.

Max Winter (1903–1996) was an American entrepreneur and pioneer in professional football. In 1960, he co-founded the Minnesota Vikings as an NFL expansion franchise and served as team president. Winter played a key role in securing the franchise, designing team operations, and building the Metrodome stadium. Under his leadership, the Vikings became one of the league’s most competitive teams in the late 1960s and 1970s. He was inducted into the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor for his contributions to the organization. Winter’s vision and business acumen helped establish professional football as a major sport in Minnesota.

Gilles Marotte began his NHL career with the Montreal Canadiens in 1965 and was part of the team’s defense corps. Over eight seasons, he played for the Chicago Black Hawks, New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, and St. Louis Blues. Known for his steady defensive play and physical style, he contributed to multiple playoff runs. Marotte won a Stanley Cup championship with the Canadiens in 1966. After retiring from the NHL, he continued playing senior hockey before leaving the sport.

Skip Prosser began his coaching career as an assistant at Notre Dame before taking head coaching roles at Loyola (Maryland) and Xavier University. At Xavier, he guided the Musketeers to several NCAA tournament appearances and set school records for wins. In 2001, Prosser became head coach at Wake Forest University, where he led the Demon Deacons to four consecutive NCAA tournaments. Known for his up-tempo style and focus on player development, he earned ACC Coach of the Year honors. His leadership, integrity, and commitment to mentorship left a lasting impact on players and the college basketball community.

Richard Harris (1948–2011) was an American-Canadian gridiron football player and coach. He enjoyed a distinguished career in the Canadian Football League (CFL) as a linebacker. After hanging up his cleats, Harris transitioned to coaching, leading multiple CFL teams over several seasons. Renowned for his defensive expertise and motivational leadership, he mentored numerous young athletes. Harris's contributions to the sport earned him respect among peers and fans alike. He remained active in football communities until his passing.

Leo Reise Jr. was born in 1922 in Stoney Creek, Ontario, and began playing junior hockey before joining the NHL in 1947. He played primarily for the Detroit Red Wings, winning Stanley Cup championships in 1952 and 1954. Known for his physical style and reliability on defense, Reise transitioned to the New York Rangers later in his career. After retiring in 1960, he remained involved in hockey through coaching and youth development programs. He passed away in 2015, remembered as a dedicated athlete and respected team player.

John Kline starred at Hamline University before joining the Minneapolis Lakers in 1952.\nHe contributed to three consecutive NBA titles in 1952, 1953, and 1954, known for his defensive prowess and teamwork.\nKline’s steady play and basketball IQ helped solidify the Lakers’ early dynasty in the league’s formative years.\nAfter retiring, he coached high school and collegiate teams, mentoring future generations of athletes.\nHe was inducted into the Hamline University Athletics Hall of Fame for his collegiate achievements.\nKline’s legacy endures in the history of basketball and the Lakers’ storied franchise.