November 04

Grover Cleveland Alexander, nicknamed 'Old Pete', was one of baseball's greatest pitchers, amassing 373 career victories and 2,198 strikeouts. A key member of the Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago Cubs, he led the league in strikeouts six times and won the 1920 National League MVP. Alexander served in World War I, returning with epilepsy but triumphing in his baseball career. His legendary performance in the 1926 World Series, including striking out Tony Lazzeri with bases loaded, remains iconic. After retiring, he became a pitching coach and scout, sharing his expertise with future generations. Alexander's tenacity and skill earned him induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1938.

Born in 1867, Cy Young debuted in Major League Baseball in 1890. Over a career spanning 22 seasons, he set the all-time record with 511 wins and pitched three no-hitters. Young played for teams including the Cleveland Spiders and Boston Americans. Known for his durability and control on the mound, he led his teams to multiple pennants. After retiring as a player in 1911, he managed and scouted in minor leagues. His legacy was honored in 1956 with the creation of the Cy Young Award, given annually to the best pitchers in the American and National Leagues.

Born in 1892 in Hull, England, Freddie Dixon began his racing career after serving in World War I. He achieved fame by winning the Isle of Man TT races in 1922 and 1923. Dixon transitioned to car racing in the 1930s, competing successfully in Brooklands and European events. Known for his mechanical ingenuity, he developed and tuned his own machines. He set multiple speed records and claimed victories in sports car competitions. After retiring from competitive racing, he ran a workshop specializing in performance tuning. Dixon's legacy endures as a versatile and pioneering figure in British motorsport.

Born in 1918, Gould began racing at Brooklands after World War II. He participated in five Formula One World Championship Grands Prix between 1954 and 1957, achieving two World Championship points. Gould also competed in sports car endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans with notable finishes. Known for his determination and privateer spirit, he ran his own team and prepared his cars. After retiring, Gould remained active in motorsport clubs and historic racing events. He passed away in 1968, remembered as a passionate and independent competitor.

Born in 1909 in Fall River, Massachusetts, Bert Patenaude was a pioneering American soccer player. He competed as a forward in the inaugural 1930 FIFA World Cup, scoring the first recorded hat-trick in tournament history against Paraguay. Patenaude also represented the United States at the 1928 Olympics. At club level, he played in both the American Soccer League and St. Louis Soccer League, earning a reputation for speed and scoring ability. After retiring from play, he coached youth soccer in his hometown. Patenaude was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 1986. His achievement set a World Cup milestone and helped raise soccer's profile in the U.S.

Born in 1906, Toni Ulmen began his competitive career on two wheels, securing multiple national motorcycle racing titles. After World War II, he transitioned to auto racing, competing in European Grand Prix events with notable success. Ulmen became one of the leading German drivers in the early 1950s, showcasing both speed and technical skill. His dual talents on motorcycle and four-wheel circuits earned him recognition in motorsport history. He remained active in the racing community until his death in 1976, inspiring future generations of German racers.

Born in 1916, Kleanthis Vikelidis became a legendary striker for Aris Thessaloniki, known for his scoring prowess and leadership on the field. He earned caps with the Greek national team, contributing to the growth of football in Greece during the pre-war era. After retiring as a player, Vikelidis transitioned to management, guiding teams with the insight of a former professional. His dedication to Aris Thessaloniki was honored by the club and fans, cementing his status as a local sports icon. He passed away in 1988, remembered for his remarkable playing career and lasting influence on Greek football.

Born in 1958 in Bridgetown, Barbados, Malcolm Marshall made his Test debut for the West Indies in 1979. He quickly earned a reputation as one of the game's fastest and most skilful bowlers, claiming 376 Test wickets at an average of 20.94. Nicknamed "Sniper" for his pinpoint yorkers, Marshall was instrumental in West Indies’ dominance of world cricket during the 1980s. After retiring in 1991, he served as coach of Barbados and mentored young talent across the Caribbean. His sudden death from colon cancer in 1999 at age 40 shocked the cricketing world, but his legacy endures through his records and influence on future generations.

Sparky Anderson was an American baseball manager who achieved legendary status in Major League Baseball. He began his managerial career with the Cincinnati Reds, leading the 'Big Red Machine' to World Series championships in 1975 and 1976. Anderson became the first manager to win a World Series with two different teams when he guided the Detroit Tigers to the 1984 title. Known for his fiery demeanor and strategic acumen, he amassed 2,194 career wins—a total that ranks among the highest in MLB history. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2000, Anderson's passion, leadership, and competitive spirit continue to influence the game today.

Ray Willsey was a Canadian-American athlete and football coach whose career spanned playing and leadership roles. After playing college football, he transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach in both college programs and the National Football League. Willsey had a notable stint as a defensive coordinator before stepping in as head coach for the UCLA Bruins on an interim basis. He was respected for his strategic insights, player development skills, and dedication to the sport. Willsey's influence extended beyond the field as he mentored young athletes and coaches until his passing in 2013.

Born in Tehran in 1946, Mansour Pourheidari began his career as a midfielder before transitioning to coaching upon retirement as a player. He managed several top-tier Iranian clubs, leading teams to multiple domestic league titles and cup victories. Pourheidari also served as head coach of the Iranian national team, guiding them through key qualifiers. Renowned for his tactical insight and leadership, he played a pivotal role in developing youth talent and shaping modern Iranian football. His legacy endures in the coaches and players he mentored.