October 07

Born in 1880, Christy Mathewson excelled as the New York Giants' ace, compiling 373 career wins with a career ERA of 2.13. Known as the "Christian Gentleman" for his sportsmanship, he pitched three shutouts in a single World Series in 1905. Mathewson served in the U.S. Army during World War I and later managed the Cincinnati Reds. His analytical approach to pitching and moral integrity set a standard for future players. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936, his legend endures in America's pastime.

Born in Belgium in 1888, Scieur became one of the early stars of professional cycling. Competing for the Alcyon team, he captured the overall victory in the 1921 Tour de France, winning two stages. Known for his stamina and resilience, he excelled in long-distance races and mountain stages. Throughout his career, he secured numerous podium finishes in classic races such as Bordeaux–Paris and Paris–Roubaix. After retiring, Scieur remained active in the cycling community, mentoring young riders until his death in 1969.

Born in Massachusetts in 1905, Durocher debuted in Major League Baseball with the Chicago Cubs in 1925. As a shortstop, he was known for his defensive skills and competitive spirit, contributing to several pennant races. Transitioning to manager in 1939, he led the St. Louis Cardinals and Brooklyn Dodgers to multiple National League titles. His outspoken nature earned him the nickname 'Leo the Lip,' making him one of baseball's most colorful figures. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994, his legacy endures for his leadership and passion for the game. Durocher passed away in 1991, leaving a lasting impact on America's pastime.

Darren Millane was a legendary Australian rules footballer who made his mark with the Collingwood Football Club in the AFL. Born in 1965, he quickly became renowned for his aggressive tackling and unwavering commitment. In 1990, he helped Collingwood secure the Premiership Cup and was honored with the Copeland Trophy as the club's best and fairest player in 1991. His intense passion for the game made him a beloved figure among teammates and fans alike. Tragically, his life and career were cut short by a car accident later in 1991. Despite his untimely death, Millane's legacy endures through the respect of the Collingwood community.

Born in 1952, Cees de Vreugd rose to international prominence as one of the world’s strongest men during the 1980s. He set multiple powerlifting records in the squat, bench press, and deadlift, earning him medals at European and World championships. De Vreugd also competed in strongman competitions, showcasing his versatility and raw power. Beyond lifting, he appeared in films and television, further cementing his status as a cultural icon. His dedication to training and discipline inspired athletes around the globe. He passed away in 1998, remembered for his remarkable achievements and larger-than-life presence.

Christopher Adams was an English-American professional wrestler and trainer born in 1955. He competed in regional and international wrestling promotions throughout the 1980s and 1990s, captivating audiences with his athleticism and charisma. After retiring from active competition, Adams dedicated himself to training the next generation of wrestlers, sharing his technical expertise and passion for the sport. He was respected for his mentorship and commitment to the wrestling community. Adams left a lasting impact on both fans and trainees before his death in 2001.

Tony Lanfranchi was an English race car driver born in 1935. He began his career in club racing before moving to sports car and touring car championships, where he was known for his adaptability and technical skill. Lanfranchi raced for teams such as Team Lotus and participated multiple times in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving commendable finishes. Off the track, he ran a successful car dealership in Birmingham and remained an active presence in British motorsport communities. Lanfranchi's versatility behind the wheel and passion for racing left a strong legacy when he passed away in 2004.

Julen Goikoetxea was a Spanish professional road cyclist born in 1985. He rode for the Euskaltel-Euskadi team in the mid-2000s and earned acclaim for his strength in mountainous stages. Goikoetxea secured notable results in U23 competitions, showcasing his potential as a future leader in Grand Tours. Teammates remembered him for his friendly personality and deep love for Basque cycling traditions. His promising career was tragically cut short later in 2006, but fans still recall his talent and dedication to the sport.

Norifumi Abe, nicknamed "Norick," was a pioneering Japanese motorcycle racer who competed on the 500cc Grand Prix circuit from 1994 to 2004. He became the first Japanese rider to win a premier-class Grand Prix with victories at the 1999 Malaysian Grand Prix and the 2000 Japanese Grand Prix. Known for his aggressive riding style and charismatic personality, Abe was a fan favorite around the world. He raced for the Yamaha factory team and achieved multiple podium finishes throughout his career. Tragically, Abe died in a traffic accident on October 7, 2007, cutting short a remarkable racing legacy.

Mick Buckley was an English professional footballer born in 1953. A skilled midfielder, he began his senior career with Sunderland, making his debut in 1971. Buckley went on to feature for clubs including Everton, Ipswich Town, and Oldham Athletic, amassing over 300 league appearances throughout his career. Known for his work rate and passing ability, he earned a reputation as a reliable team player. After retiring from the pitch, he remained involved in football at a community level until his passing in 2013.

Nika Kiladze was a talented Georgian footballer born in 1988, known for his midfield prowess and vision on the pitch. He began his professional journey with FC Gagra and went on to play for clubs in Ukraine and Russia, showcasing his adaptability across leagues. Kiladze also represented Georgia at youth levels, highlighting his potential as a future national team mainstay. His career was tragically cut short by a car accident in 2014. He is remembered for his technical skill and dedication to the sport.

Harry Gallatin was an American basketball legend born in 1927. Nicknamed the Horse for his incredible endurance, he starred with the New York Knicks from 1948 to 1957, earning seven consecutive NBA All-Star selections. After his playing career, Gallatin transitioned into coaching, leading teams such as the St. Louis Hawks and Southern Illinois University Carbondale. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Hall of Fame in 1991, cementing his legacy as one of the game's toughest competitors. Gallatin passed away in 2015, celebrated for his work ethic and impact on basketball.