September 20

Ferenc Szisz was a pioneering figure in motor racing, competing for the Renault team in the early 20th century. He claimed victory in the inaugural French Grand Prix at Le Mans in 1906, driving a Renault AK. Szisz’s strategic use of tire changes and pit stops showcased early innovations in race tactics. Before his racing career, he trained as an engineer, bringing technical expertise to automotive competition. He continued to race and also served as a test driver and director of Renault’s racing department. Szisz’s achievements paved the way for modern motorsport, and he remains a celebrated figure in racing history.

Born in 1889, Oskar Kaplur represented Estonia as a Greco-Roman wrestler in the early 20th century. He competed at major national and international tournaments, showcasing strength and technical skill. Kaplur contributed to the development of wrestling in Estonia, inspiring future generations of athletes. After retiring from competition, he remained active in sports administration and coaching. His dedication helped establish Estonia's reputation in the wrestling world.

Born in 1889, Charles Reidpath was a standout American athlete who won gold medals in the 200-meter and 400-meter relay at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics. Following his athletic success, he pursued a military career, rising to the rank of brigadier general in the U.S. Army. Reidpath served with distinction during World War II and in various command roles. His leadership extended beyond sports to mentorship of younger officers. He is remembered for his dual legacies as an Olympic champion and a dedicated military officer.

Hermann Lux was a German footballer known for his skillful play and tactical understanding. He earned caps for the German national team in the late 1920s, competing against European sides. After retiring as a player, Lux transitioned into management, leading teams in the German league system. His coaching career spanned multiple clubs, where he applied innovative training methods. Lux contributed to the development of youth programs and mentored future stars of German football. His dual legacy as player and manager remains part of Germany’s sporting heritage.

Arnold 'Red' Auerbach coached the Boston Celtics to nine NBA titles in the 1950s and 1960s, including eight consecutive championships. He is credited with pioneering the fast break and emphasizing team play and defense. Auerbach was the first NBA coach to draft African American players, breaking racial barriers in professional basketball. He later served as President and General Manager of the Celtics, adding two more championships to his record. Auerbach's leadership and innovations helped shape the modern NBA and earned him a place in the Hall of Fame.

Obdulio Varela was the inspirational captain of Uruguay's national team, famously known as 'El Negro Jefe'. He orchestrated Uruguay's stunning 2–1 upset over Brazil in the 1950 World Cup final at the Maracanã Stadium. Varela was celebrated for his leadership, tactical intelligence, and tenacious midfield play. He earned over 30 caps for Uruguay and won multiple South American Championships. His legacy lives on as one of football's greatest motivational figures and pioneers of the sport.

Libero Liberati was born in 1926 and began his racing career after World War II. He competed in the Grand Prix motorcycle road racing world championships during the 1950s. In 1957, Liberati secured the 500cc World Championship riding for the Gilera factory team. He was celebrated for his calm demeanor and technical skill on demanding circuits. After retiring in 1959, he continued to be involved in motorsport until his untimely death in 1962. Liberati is remembered as one of Italy's great Grand Prix champions.

Dennis Viollet was an English striker who starred for Manchester United during the 1950s. He scored a club record 32 league goals in the 1959–60 season, which stood for decades. Viollet was one of the Busby Babes and survived the Munich air disaster in 1958. He later played in the United States and transitioned into coaching and management. As a manager, he led teams in the North American Soccer League, promoting soccer growth. Viollet’s dedication on and off the pitch made him a respected figure in football communities. His scoring records and coaching legacy endure in English and American soccer history.

Born on September 20, 1934, Hamit Kaplan became Turkey’s first Olympic champion in heavyweight freestyle wrestling at the 1956 Melbourne Games. He claimed silver in Rome in 1960 and bronze in Tokyo in 1964, showcasing remarkable consistency on sport’s biggest stage. Kaplan also captured World Championship gold medals in 1953 and 1955, dominating the mid-1950s. Known for his explosive takedowns and strength, he inspired a generation of Turkish wrestlers. After retiring, he contributed to coaching and wrestling development in Turkey. He passed away in 1976, leaving a legacy as one of Turkey’s greatest athletes.

Born on September 20, 1935, in Highfields, Nottingham, David Pegg joined Manchester United’s youth ranks at age 15. He made his first-team debut in 1953 and quickly became known for his pace and crossing ability. As one of the ‘Busby Babes,’ he helped United win the 1956–57 First Division title. His career and life were cut short at 22 when he died in the Munich air disaster on February 6, 1958. Pegg is remembered as one of the brightest talents in post-war English football. His legacy lives on in the club’s history and in memorials at Old Trafford.

Born on September 20, 1935, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jim Taylor starred at LSU before joining the Packers in 1958. He was NFL rushing leader four times, MVP in 1962, and helped Green Bay win five NFL titles including the first two Super Bowls. Taylor’s physical running style epitomized Vince Lombardi’s championship teams. After retiring in 1967, he became a sportscaster for NBC, CBS, and local Florida stations. He remained a revered figure in football, inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1976. Taylor passed away in 2018, remembered for his toughness and competitive spirit.

Born on September 20, 1936, in Guadalajara, Salvador ‘Chava’ Reyes debuted for Chivas at age 19. He became a prolific goal scorer, helping the team win multiple Mexican league titles in the late 1950s and early ’60s. Reyes represented Mexico in the 1962 and 1966 World Cups, earning acclaim for his pace and finishing. After retiring, he transitioned to management, coaching clubs such as Atlas and Veracruz. His leadership and knowledge of the game influenced younger generations of players. Reyes passed away in 2012, remembered as one of Mexico’s footballing greats.