September 10

Maharaja Ranjitsinhji, born in 1872 in Jamnagar, India, was educated at Cambridge University in England. He debuted in Test cricket for England in 1895 and quickly became famous for his elegant batting style. He pioneered the leg glance and transformed the aesthetics of cricket strokeplay. Ranjitsinhji played 15 Tests, scoring over 1,500 runs at an average above 40 in an era of low-scoring games. After his cricket career, he ruled as Jam Sahib of Nawanagar and worked on administrative reforms in his state. He is remembered as one of cricket’s greatest early stars and a cultural bridge between India and Britain. He passed away in 1933, leaving a legacy honored by nations and sports fans alike.

Ivar Böhling (1889–1929) was a Finnish Greco-Roman wrestler who achieved success in international competitions during the early 20th century. He won national titles in Finland and represented his country in European championships, earning recognition for his technical skill and strength. Böhling's athletic career contributed to Finland's reputation in wrestling, a sport in which the nation has traditionally excelled. Although he did not compete in the Olympic Games, his performances inspired future generations of Finnish wrestlers. He remains a notable figure in Finland's sporting history.

Born in New York in 1904, Honey Craven began his career as a competitive horse rider before transitioning to management roles in the racing industry. He joined the staff at Belmont Park in the 1930s, eventually serving as the track's superintendent and racing secretary. Craven was respected for his deep knowledge of horses and his organizational skills, helping to modernize race day operations. He played a key role in the administration of Triple Crown races and other high-profile events. Over his decades-long career, he mentored numerous jockeys and trainers. Craven retired in the late 1970s and died in 2003, remembered as a legendary figure in American horse racing.

Joann Lõssov was born in 1921 in Tallinn, Estonia and emerged as one of the country's leading basketball talents. He represented Estonia at various international competitions during the mid-20th century. After retiring from play, Lõssov transitioned into coaching, guiding several top Estonian clubs. His strategic approach and dedication helped lay the foundation for modern basketball in Estonia. He remained active in the sport as a mentor until his passing in 2000.

Ted Kluszewski (1924-1988) was an American Major League Baseball first baseman renowned for his muscular physique and powerful hitting. He played primarily for the Cincinnati Reds from 1947 to 1957 and led the National League in RBIs in 1953. Nicknamed 'Big Klu', he was a six-time All-Star and earned two National League home run titles. After retiring as a player, Kluszewski coached at various levels, including a stint as a minor league manager. He left a lasting legacy as one of the most formidable power hitters of his era.

Arnold Palmer (1929–2016) was an American professional golfer whose charismatic style and competitive spirit earned him the nickname 'The King'. He won numerous championships on the PGA Tour, including seven major titles, and became one of golf's most celebrated figures. Palmer also built a successful business empire, launching golf course design, licensing ventures, and a beverage brand. His approachable persona helped bring golf to a broader audience, igniting interest in the sport across generations. Palmer's impact extends beyond his victories, as he inspired countless players and shaped modern golf culture.

Aino Kukk (1930–2006) was an Estonian chess player and engineer who achieved national recognition in both fields. On the chessboard, she competed in national championships and represented Estonia in international tournaments. Alongside her sporting achievements, Kukk pursued a career in engineering, contributing to technical projects and innovation. Her dual pursuits exemplified a harmonious blend of strategic thinking and analytical problem-solving. Kukk's legacy endures in Estonia's chess community and among engineering circles.

Born in 1934 in Hibbing, Minnesota, Roger Maris debuted with the Cleveland Indians in 1957 before starring with the Kansas City Athletics. He joined the New York Yankees in 1960 and captured baseball history by hitting 61 home runs in 1961, a record that stood for 37 years. A five-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, Maris was known for his smooth swing and clutch hitting. After his playing career, he served as a hitting coach for the St. Louis Cardinals and remained involved in youth baseball. Maris retired in 1968 and was honored for his sportsmanship and dedication to the game. He passed away from lymphoma in 1985, celebrated as one of baseball’s legendary power hitters.

Debuting in the 1960s under a mask, Mr. Wrestling II quickly became a fan favorite in Georgia and other Southeastern promotions. He formed a successful tag team with Mr. Wrestling I and captured multiple regional championships. His disciplined style and mysterious persona made him one of the era’s most enduring masked wrestlers. After unmasking in the late 1970s, he saw continued success as a singles competitor and mentor to younger talent. He retired from the ring in the early 1990s and remained active in the wrestling community as a trainer. Mr. Wrestling II passed away in 2020, leaving a legacy in regional professional wrestling.

Buck Buchanan was an American football player born in 1940 in Fort Scott, Kansas. He played college football at Grambling State University under coach Eddie Robinson and was the first overall pick in the 1963 AFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. At 6'7" and 270 pounds, Buchanan revolutionized the defensive tackle position with his blend of size and athleticism. He led the Chiefs to an AFL Championship in 1966 and an NFL Championship in Super Bowl IV. Buchanan was named to multiple All-Star and All-Pro teams throughout his career. He retired as one of the most feared defensive linemen in professional football. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990, cementing his status as a gridiron legend.

Bob Chance was an American baseball player born in 1940 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He made his Major League debut with the Cleveland Indians in 1963 and later played for the Washington Senators and California Angels. Primarily a first baseman and left fielder, Chance was known for his clutch hitting and solid defensive play. He hit over 30 home runs in his Major League career and maintained a respectable batting average. After retiring from the majors, Chance continued to play in the minor leagues and worked as a coach and scout. His contributions to baseball extended beyond his playing days, as he mentored young athletes. Chance passed away in 2013 but is remembered for his dedication to America’s pastime.

At the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, Hines captured the gold medal in the 100 meters with a world-record time of 9.95 seconds, becoming the first athlete to officially break the 10-second barrier. He later played professional football as a wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs, showcasing his athletic versatility. Hines's achievements elevated the sport of sprinting and inspired generations of track athletes. His legendary performances and pioneering spirit left a lasting impact on American sports. He passed away in 2023, leaving a storied legacy in athletics.