August 27

Hermann Weingärtner won multiple gold medals at the inaugural 1896 Athens Olympics in gymnastics. He excelled on the horizontal bar, rings, and as part of Germany’s team events. His performances helped establish gymnastics as a prominent Olympic sport. Weingärtner’s athleticism and discipline set standards for competitive gymnastics. He remains celebrated as one of Germany’s early Olympic champions.

Donald Bradman was an Australian cricketer whose Test batting average of 99.94 remains unrivalled. He made his debut in 1928 and dominated opposition bowling attacks throughout his career. Known as 'The Don', he scored 29 Test centuries and set numerous batting records. After retiring, he served as a national selector and cricket administrator. His impact on the sport earned him legendary status and he remains an icon in cricket lore.

Sylvère Maes was a dominant Belgian road cyclist who captured the Tour de France title in 1936 and 1939. Renowned for his climbing prowess, he led the general classification on multiple occasions. Maes faced challenges during the 1937 Tour, controversially withdrawing from the race. His victories exemplified Belgian cycling strength before World War II. After retiring, he remained involved in the sport and is remembered as one of Belgium's preeminent riders of the era.

Charles Pozzi competed as a French racing driver in Grand Prix events and the 24 Hours of Le Mans during the 1940s and 1950s. He achieved notable performances in endurance races and sports car competitions. After retiring from driving, he established Charles Pozzi S.A., the official Ferrari importer in France. His business fostered French interest in Italian sports cars and motorsport culture. Pozzi's legacy spans both his on-track exploits and his contributions to automotive enthusiasm in France.

Tony Harris was a versatile South African athlete who played Test cricket and international rugby. As a cricket all-rounder, he appeared in matches for South Africa in the 1940s. In rugby union, he played as a flanker for the national team, showcasing his athleticism. Harris remains one of the rare dual internationals to compete at the highest level in two sports. His sporting achievements during the post-war era highlighted his exceptional talent and dedication.

Born in 1917, Peanuts Lowrey began his MLB career with the Chicago Cubs in 1942. He was a two-time National League All-Star and earned praise for his defensive skills and base-stealing ability. Lowrey served in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II and returned to help lead the Cubs and later the Cincinnati Reds. After retiring as a player, he contributed to professional baseball as a coach and minor league manager. Lowrey left a legacy as a hardworking and adaptable figure in America's pastime.

Born in 1919, Pee Wee Butts made his Major League debut with the Boston Braves in 1943. He earned a reputation for slick fielding and a strong throwing arm at shortstop. After his playing career, Butts devoted himself to coaching, guiding young athletes and sharing his knowledge of the game. He was respected for his mentorship and passion for baseball at both amateur and collegiate levels. Butts's commitment to the sport left a lasting impact long after he retired from the field. He passed away in 1972, remembered as both a skilled player and a dedicated coach.

Born in 1920, Baptiste Manzini played collegiate football before joining the National Football League as a guard. He was known for his toughness and reliability on the offensive line. Manzini's professional career coincided with the formative years of modern pro football, and he contributed to his team's running game. He earned respect from teammates and opponents alike for his work ethic and physical play. After retiring from the field, he remained a part of the football community until his passing in 2008. His legacy endures among fans of the early NFL era.

Born on August 27, 1923, Jimmy Greenhalgh enjoyed a lengthy career as a footballer in England’s Football League. Known for his versatility on the pitch and leadership qualities, he represented multiple clubs over his playing years. After hanging up his boots, he transitioned into management and guided several teams from the dugout. His dedication to the sport made him a respected figure among players and fans alike. Greenhalgh passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to English football.

Nathaniel “Nat” Lofthouse was born on August 27, 1925, in Bolton, England. He played his entire club career for Bolton Wanderers, becoming one of the club’s all-time leading scorers. Lofthouse’s powerful style and goal-scoring instinct earned him 33 caps for the England national team. Nicknamed “The Lion of Vienna” after a famous performance against Austria, he became a national hero. After retiring as a player, he had a spell as manager of Bolton Wanderers. He was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame and passed away in 2011.

George Scott was born in 1929 in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. He began his wrestling career in the 1950s and gained fame as a talented in-ring performer. Alongside his brothers, he helped establish professional wrestling in the Mid-Atlantic region. He transitioned to promotion and served as a booker for Jim Crockett Promotions. Scott mentored many wrestlers and is credited with innovating modern wrestling storytelling. He was inducted into the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame before his death in 2014.

Gholamreza Takhti was born in 1930 in Tehran, Iran. He won a silver medal at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics and a gold medal at the 1956 Melbourne Games. Known as 'Jahan Pahlevan', he was celebrated for his humility and charitable acts. Takhti also won multiple world and continental championships in freestyle wrestling. In addition to his athletic career, he voiced support for the poor and opposed social injustice. His mysterious death in 1968 cemented his status as a cultural icon in Iran.