November 18

Born into the noble Borghese family in 1871, Scipione became the 10th Prince of Sulmona in 1910. He served as a senator in the Italian Parliament while pursuing passions beyond politics. Borghese led expeditions across North Africa and documented his travels in published journals. He also embraced the dawn of motor racing, competing in events like the Targa Florio. His aristocratic status allowed him to fund archaeological digs and sponsor scientific research. He wrote memoirs of his adventures, inspiring future explorers. Borghese died in 1927, remembered as a pioneer of both exploration and early motorsport.

Born in 1901 in New York City, Freddie Fitzsimmons played in Major League Baseball from 1925 to 1943. Nicknamed 'Fat Freddie,' he was celebrated for mastering the knuckle curveball, becoming one of the era's top pitchers. He won 217 games over his career and played for the New York Giants, Brooklyn Dodgers, and Washington Senators. After retiring as a player, Fitzsimmons served as a pitching coach and manager in the minor leagues and MLB. He coached the Brooklyn Dodgers to a World Series title in 1955. Known for his dry wit and encyclopedic knowledge of the game, he was a beloved figure in baseball. Fitzsimmons passed away in 1979, leaving a legacy as one of the sport's most reliable and colorful characters.

Born in 1895 in Toronto, Thomas Conn Smythe served as an officer in World War I and later in the Canadian military reserves. After the war, he became involved in ice hockey, playing briefly as a defenseman and later managing and coaching teams. In 1927, he founded and became principal owner of the Toronto Maple Leafs, a franchise he would lead for decades. Under his leadership, the Maple Leafs won five Stanley Cups between 1932 and 1967. Smythe was also a successful businessman, investing in mining, real estate, and horse racing. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1975 for his contributions to the sport. Smythe died in 1980, remembered as a pioneering builder of professional hockey in Canada.

Jacques Anquetil was born in 1934 in Normandy and turned professional in 1953. He revolutionized time trialling with his aerodynamic riding style and precise pacing strategies. Anquetil captured his first Tour de France victory in 1957 and went on to win again in 1961, 1962, 1963, and 1964. He also claimed titles in the Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a España, and classic races such as Paris-Nice. Known for his calm demeanor and calculating approach, he earned the nickname 'Monsieur Chrono.' After retiring, Anquetil advocated for drug testing in cycling and remained involved in the sport. He died in 1987, leaving a legacy as one of the greatest grand tour champions.

Walter Matuszczak was a standout halfback for the Cornell Big Red football team, earning All-America honors in 1939. His speed and agility on the field led to his selection by the New York Giants in the 1941 NFL draft. Matuszczak served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, balancing athletic prowess with patriotic duty. After his brief professional prospects, he pursued a career in law and engaged in community service. His athletic achievements and character left a mark on college football history. Matuszczak's life exemplified the blend of sports excellence and service.

Red Robbins, born in 1944, starred at Virginia Tech before playing in the American Basketball Association. He was drafted by the St. Louis Hawks but found fame with the Carolina Cougars and the Pittsburgh Pipers. In 1968, he won an ABA championship with the Pipers and was named an ABA All-Star. Robbins was celebrated for his accurate jump shot and three-point prowess. After retiring, he remained active in basketball communities until his passing in 2009.

Thomas Howard, born in 1983, played college football at Arizona State University, earning first-team All-Pac-10 honors. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2006, he led the team in tackles for several seasons and was known for his aggressive play. Howard also had stints with the Cincinnati Bengals and Atlanta Falcons. His career totaled over 700 tackles in the NFL. He tragically passed away in a car accident in 2013, remembered for his passion and dedication on the field.

Ljubomir Vračarević developed Real Aikido as a modern self-defense method. He trained under renowned instructors and expanded traditional aikido techniques into a practical combat system. He founded the Real Aikido organization and led seminars worldwide. His approach combined effective self-defense applications with philosophical principles. He authored instructional books and videos, and his style was adopted by law enforcement and military units globally. Vračarević left a lasting impact on the martial arts community as a teacher and innovator.

Dan Halldorson captured his first PGA Tour title at the 1978 Greater Jacksonville Open, marking the start of a successful career. He notched five wins on the Canadian Tour and went on to secure two victories on the Champions Tour. Representing Canada in the World Cup of Golf, he demonstrated consistency and skill on the international stage. After retiring from competition, Halldorson worked as a golf commentator and mentor to young players. Known for his smooth swing and sportsmanship, he was inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame. His achievements continue to inspire golfers across North America and beyond.

Jonah Lomu broke onto the world stage at the 1995 Rugby World Cup, famously scoring four tries against England in the semi-final. His rare blend of size, speed, and agility redefined expectations for backs in rugby union, earning him global fame. As the youngest All Black at age 19, he amassed the most tries in World Cup history and played professionally across New Zealand, Europe, and Japan. Lomu battled a serious kidney disorder, receiving a transplant in 2004, yet continued to influence the sport. He ended his career as one of rugby's most iconic figures, inspiring a generation of players and fans. Lomu's legacy endures as a symbol of athletic excellence and resilience.

Bob Love was an American professional basketball player who starred in the NBA during the 1960s and 70s. Born in 1942, he overcame childhood rickets to become a dominant forward for the Chicago Bulls. Love averaged over 20 points per game and was named to the All-Star team three times. His tenacious style and mid-range shooting made him one of the league’s premier scorers. After retiring, he became a counselor and mentor to at-risk youth, demonstrating his commitment to community. He died in 2024, leaving a legacy both on and off the court.