September 27

Babe Didrikson Zaharias (1911–1956) was an American multi-sport athlete who dominated basketball, track and field, and golf. She won two gold medals and one silver at the 1932 Olympics in hurdles, javelin, and high jump. Zaharias later turned to professional golf, co-founding the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) in 1950. She won 10 major championships and 41 professional tournaments, showcasing her remarkable versatility. Known for her competitive spirit and charismatic personality, Zaharias broke barriers for women in sports.

Joe Hulme was born in 1904 in Plumstead, London, and excelled as both a footballer and cricketer. He began his soccer career with Tottenham Hotspur before transferring to Arsenal in 1926, where he won five First Division titles and an FA Cup. Known for his speed and goal-scoring ability, he also represented England at the international level. During summers, Hulme played first-class cricket for Middlesex, showcasing remarkable athletic versatility. After retiring from playing, he contributed to sports as a coach and journalist. He died in 1991, remembered as one of England’s finest dual-sport athletes.

Born in Dallas, Texas in 1927, Doak Walker starred at Southern Methodist University where he won the 1948 Heisman Trophy. He joined the Detroit Lions in 1950 and quickly became one of the NFL's premier players, contributing as a runner, receiver, kicker, and return specialist. Walker helped lead the Lions to NFL championships in 1952 and 1953. His all-around skills and sportsmanship earned him six Pro Bowl selections and a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986. Off the field, he engaged in charitable work and became a beloved figure in Texas sports. Walker tragically died in a car accident in 1998, and the Doak Walker Award is named in his honor.

Born in France in 1927, Jean Lucas pursued a career in motor racing during the early 1950s. He made his sole Formula One World Championship start at the 1956 German Grand Prix driving a Gordini. Beyond F1, Lucas competed in sports car races, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and was valued for his technical feedback and smooth driving style. After retiring from competition, he founded a racing team and operated a garage that supported emerging drivers. His mentorship and dedication helped shape postwar French motorsport. Lucas passed away in 2003, remembered as a versatile competitor and team builder.

Born in Saskatchewan in 1927, Wally Hergesheimer made his NHL debut with the Chicago Black Hawks in 1947. As a right winger, he was recognized for his goal-scoring touch and playmaking skills. He earned NHL All-Star selections during his career and helped elevate his teams' offensive output. After several seasons in the NHL, he continued playing and coaching in minor leagues, sharing his expertise with younger players. Hergesheimer retired with over 200 professional points and remained active in the hockey community. He passed away in 2014, remembered for his sportsmanship and contributions to Canadian ice hockey legacy.

Frank Tyson was born in 1930 in Derbyshire, England. He burst onto the Test scene in the 1950s, terrorizing batsmen with extreme pace and accuracy. Nicknamed 'Typhoon', he played 17 Test matches for England, claiming 76 wickets at an average of under 19. After emigrating to Australia, he had a successful career as a coach and cricket journalist. Tyson authored several books and articles, sharing his insights on bowling and the game's evolution. His legacy endures as a benchmark for fast bowlers worldwide.

Michael Payton was born in 1970 in Greensboro, North Carolina. He starred as the quarterback for the Marshall University Thundering Herd, leading the team to multiple victories. Payton set several NCAA records for passing yards and touchdowns during the early 1990s. He was named an All-American and MVP of multiple bowl games. After college, he had brief stints in professional football leagues and later coached young athletes. Payton was celebrated for his leadership on and off the field, inspiring teammates and fans alike.