September 01

Born in Germany in 1957, Stefan Bellof began his motorsport career in karting and quickly progressed through the junior formulas. He won the 1984 European Formula 3 Championship and became a rising star in sports car racing with Porsche. Bellof competed in Formula One for Tyrrell, showcasing remarkable pace despite limited experience. He set a lap record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife in 1983 that stood for decades. On September 1, 1985, he was killed in a crash during the 1000 km of Spa, ending a career many considered destined for greatness. Bellof remains celebrated for his raw talent and daring driving style in the racing community.

Kazimierz Deyna (October 23, 1947 – September 1, 1989) was a Polish football midfielder renowned for his vision and technical skill. As captain of Legia Warsaw, he won two Polish league titles. He led the Poland national team to a gold medal at the 1972 Munich Olympics and a third-place finish at the 1974 FIFA World Cup. After defecting from communist Poland, he played for Manchester City in England. Deyna was celebrated for his accurate passing and free-kick ability. He tragically died in a car accident in San Diego. His legacy endures as one of Poland's greatest footballers.

Zoltán Czibor (1929 – September 1, 1997) was a Hungarian footballer who starred as a forward for the national team known as the 'Mighty Magyars.' He won an Olympic gold medal in 1952 and helped Hungary to the 1954 World Cup final. After the Hungarian Revolution, he joined FC Barcelona, winning La Liga and the European Cup in 1959. Czibor was celebrated for his speed, dribbling, and scoring ability. He later played in Italy and other European clubs. His contributions helped define one of the most influential teams in football history.

Cary Middlecoff (1921 – September 1, 1998) was an American golfer who dominated the PGA Tour during the 1950s. Nicknamed 'The Southern Gentleman' for his refined demeanor, he won 40 PGA Tour events. Middlecoff claimed major victories at the U.S. Open in 1949 and 1956, and the Masters Tournament in 1955. After retiring, he transitioned to broadcasting, offering expert commentary on golf for television audiences. His analytical approach and sportsmanship endeared him to fans and fellow players. Middlecoff was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1990.

Roy McKenzie began his career as an accomplished jockey before moving into philanthropy. He dedicated significant resources to charitable organizations focused on health, education, and the arts. An avid equestrian, McKenzie also supported the development of horse racing and riding programs in New Zealand. His foundation provided scholarships and grants that have benefited thousands of individuals. McKenzie's legacy is marked by his commitment to both sport and social welfare.

Born in 1928, Wakanohana Kanji I rose through the sumo ranks to become the 45th yokozuna in 1952. He won multiple top division championships, earning a reputation for powerful thrusting techniques and unwavering discipline. His rivalry with other leading wrestlers captivated fans and helped popularize sumo nationally. After retiring in 1960, he served as a stablemaster, mentoring the next generation of rikishi. Wakanohana's influence extended beyond the dohyo, contributing to sumo's rich cultural heritage.

Born in 1920 in San Sebastian, Ignacio Eizaguirre began his career as a goalkeeper with Real Sociedad. He earned caps for the Spain national team, playing in the 1948 Olympic Games and international friendlies. Eizaguirre later transitioned to management, leading clubs such as Elche CF and Real Betis. Known for his agility and leadership on the field, he helped popularize modern goalkeeping techniques in Spain. His contributions to Spanish football spanned playing and coaching, leaving a lasting legacy.

Roger Sydney McKee was born in 1926 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He made his Major League Baseball debut with the Philadelphia Phillies in 1947 and quickly earned a reputation as a promising left-handed pitcher. McKee recorded his first major league win shortly after joining the team and demonstrated considerable skill on the mound during his rookie season. Despite a brief tenure in the majors, he continued playing professionally in the minor leagues for several years. After retiring from baseball, McKee remained involved in the sport by coaching youth leagues and mentoring young athletes. He passed away in 2014, remembered for his contributions to America’s pastime.