January 10

Algernon Maudslay was born in December 1873. He competed as a crew member on the British boat "Cobweb" at the 1908 London Olympics. Maudslay and his team won the gold medal in the 12-metre class sailing event. His achievement contributed to Great Britain's dominance in early Olympic sailing competitions. After his sporting success, he continued his maritime career and inspired future sailors. He died in 1948, leaving a legacy as one of England's early Olympic champions.

Jack O'Neill was born in Springfield, Massachusetts in 1873 to Irish immigrant parents. He played as a catcher in Major League Baseball for the St. Louis Cardinals and Chicago Cubs. Known for his defensive skills, he caught for Hall of Famer Cy Young during his debut season. Nicknamed "Happy Jack" for his upbeat attitude, he was beloved by teammates and fans alike. After retiring, he coached college baseball and advocated for youth sports development. He passed away in 1935, remembered among the early generation of professional catchers.

George Orton was born in Strathroy, Ontario in 1873 and moved to the United States as a child. He excelled as a middle-distance runner and hurdler at the University of Pennsylvania. At the 1900 Paris Olympics, Orton won the 2500-metre steeplechase, becoming Canada's first Olympic champion. He also earned bronze in the 400-metre hurdles, showcasing his versatile athleticism. Orton continued his career as a track coach at Penn, influencing future generations of runners. He is celebrated as a pioneer in Canadian track and field history.

John McLean was born in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1878. He excelled as a hurdler, competing in national championships at the turn of the century. McLean also played college football before transitioning to a coaching career. He led teams with a focus on athletic excellence and sportsmanship during the sport's formative years. After his athletic and coaching career, he mentored young athletes and promoted collegiate sports. He passed away in 1955, remembered for his dual legacy in track and football.

Born in 1895, Percy Cerutty was an Australian athletics coach celebrated for his unconventional training philosophy known as 'Stotan'. He emphasized natural environments, strength training, and mental toughness to prepare athletes for competition. Cerutty's most famous protege was middle-distance runner Herb Elliott, who won gold at the 1960 Rome Olympics under his guidance. He often held rigorous training camps on the beach and in the bush, challenging conventional coaching norms. His methods sparked debate but produced remarkable results, influencing coaching techniques worldwide. Cerutty continued to mentor athletes throughout his life, leaving a lasting mark on the sport.

Born in 1900, Violette Cordery was one of Britain's pioneering female racing drivers. In 1926, she piloted a team of cars to set a 24-hour endurance record, covering over 1,522 miles. Later that year, she and her team completed a 10,000-mile reliability trial across Europe, winning acclaim for consistency and stamina. Cordery's achievements challenged gender barriers in motorsport and inspired women worldwide. She was awarded an MBE in 1928 for her contributions to motoring. Cordery remained active in promoting road safety and motorsport until her death in 1983.

Born in 1903, Voldemar Väli was a pioneering Estonian wrestler specializing in Greco-Roman style. He won the gold medal at the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, becoming one of Estonia's first Olympic champions. Four years later, he added a bronze medal at the Los Angeles Games to his accolades. Väli dominated European tournaments in the late 1920s and early 1930s, setting a high standard for his sport. After retiring from competition, he contributed to wrestling as a coach and mentor to young athletes. He passed away in 1997, remembered as a foundational figure in Estonian sporting history.

Don Metz was a Canadian professional ice hockey player who excelled as a centre for the Detroit Red Wings. Born in Winnipeg, he joined the Red Wings in the late 1930s and became a key member of the famed 'Production Line' alongside Gordie Howe and Sid Abel. Metz captured three Stanley Cup championships (1943, 1950, and 1952) with Detroit. Known for his skillful playmaking and scoring touch, he recorded over 400 points in his NHL career. After retiring as a player in 1954, Metz remained involved in hockey through coaching and community work. He was inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his contributions to the sport. Metz passed away in 2007, remembered as one of Canada's great centres.

Les Bennett was an English professional footballer known for his dynamic play as a centre-forward. Born in Nelson, Lancashire, he began his career with Accrington Stanley before moving to Blackburn Rovers in the 1930s. Bennett earned a reputation for his agility and finishing ability, scoring over 100 league goals in his career. After World War II, he transitioned into management, leading clubs in the lower divisions. His leadership off the field was marked by a focus on youth development and tactical innovation. Bennett remained involved in football through scouting and coaching roles until his passing in 1999. He is remembered for his contributions to English football both on and off the pitch.

Terukuni Manzō was the 38th Yokozuna in sumo, revered for his strength and technical skill. Born Manzō Shinonaga in Ōita Prefecture, he entered professional sumo and rose swiftly through the ranks. He earned the yokozuna title in the early 1940s, during a challenging era of wartime Japan. Known for his imposing size and masterful belt techniques, he recorded numerous top division championships. Terukuni also served as a mentor and stablemaster after retiring from active competition. His tenure helped preserve sumo traditions through post-war recovery and modernization of the sport. He died in 1977, leaving a legacy as one of Japan's distinguished grand champions.

Rodger Ward was born in 1921 in Beloit, Kansas, and served as a naval aviator during World War II. After the war, he turned to auto racing and became one of America’s top drivers in the 1950s. Ward won the Indianapolis 500 in 1959 and 1962, and claimed two USAC National Championships. He was celebrated for his smooth driving style and ability to excel on road courses and ovals alike. Following his racing career, Ward transitioned to broadcasting, providing commentary for ABC’s Wide World of Sports. His insight and charisma helped popularize motorsports on television. Ward remained active in the racing community until his death in 2004, remembered as a pioneering figure.

Billy Liddell was born in 1922 in Townhill, Scotland, and joined Liverpool FC in 1938. He made his senior debut at 18 and quickly became a versatile winger known for his pace and goal-scoring. Liddell served in the Royal Air Force during World War II but continued to play as guest for Dundee United. After the war, he returned to Liverpool and helped the team secure the First Division title in 1947. Over 17 seasons, Liddell scored 228 goals in 534 appearances, earning the nickname “Liddellpool.” He captained Scotland’s national team in several international fixtures. Retiring in 1961, he remained a beloved figure at Anfield and passed away in 2001. His dedication and performances made him one of Liverpool’s greatest ever players.