January 14

Born in 1849, Cowper developed a lifelong passion for yachting and coastal exploration. He wrote and illustrated vivid accounts of his voyages, offering both practical guidance and storytelling flair. His books encouraged a growing audience of amateur sailors to explore Britain's waterways. Cowper's illustrations brought nautical scenes to life and complemented his detailed narratives. He continued writing and painting maritime subjects until his death in 1930, leaving a unique legacy in sailing literature.

Robert Fournier-Sarlovèze was a French polo player of the late 19th and early 20th centuries who competed in international tournaments and helped promote polo in France. After his sporting career, he entered politics and served in the French Parliament. He advocated for the development of sports and rural communities, bringing his competitive spirit to legislative work. His ability to bridge athletics and public service made him a notable figure in his era.

Born in 1892, George Wilson had a career that exemplified the passion and dedication of early professional footballers. Though specific records of his clubs and positions are limited, his presence on the field contributed to the growth of English football during its formative years.

Born in 1904, Albert 'Babe' Siebert was known for his physical play and leadership on the ice. He won the Stanley Cup in 1935 with the Montreal Maroons and later captained the Montreal Canadiens. After retiring as a player, he served as head coach of the Canadiens. Siebert’s career was tragically cut short when he died from injuries sustained in a boating accident in 1939. Posthumously inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, he is remembered as one of the sport’s toughest and most respected figures.

Born in 1920 in The Hague, Bertus de Harder began his career with ADO Den Haag before moving to French club Bordeaux in 1949. At Bordeaux, he became a prolific scorer, earning a reputation for skillful play and leadership on the field. He was capped 38 times for the Netherlands national team, contributing 10 goals. After retiring as a player, de Harder transitioned to management, guiding several Dutch clubs including Feyenoord. His contributions helped shape post-war Dutch football, and he remains a celebrated figure until his death in 1982.

Born in 1921 in Hillsdale, Wyoming, Ken Sailors starred at the University of Wyoming, guiding his team to the 1943 NCAA title. He revolutionized the game by perfecting and popularizing the jump shot, transforming basketball strategy. Sailors played professionally in the National Basketball League and the Basketball Association of America, precursors to the NBA. After his playing career, he coached high school and college teams, imparting his knowledge to new generations. Inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame, he died in 2016 at the age of 95.

Born in 1922 in Italy and raised in Canada, Hank Biasatti excelled in both baseball and basketball at the University of Toronto. He played for the Toronto Huskies during the inaugural season of the Basketball Association of America in 1946. In 1943, Biasatti made his MLB debut with the Philadelphia Athletics, becoming the first Canadian to reach the majors. Known for his athleticism and adaptability, he later coached and mentored young athletes in Canada. His pioneering career paved the way for future Canadian stars in North American sports before his death in 1996.

Don Garlits revolutionized drag racing with his innovative design of the rear-engine dragster in the 1960s, which greatly improved driver safety. Over his career, he won multiple National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) championships and set numerous speed records. Garlits founded the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing to preserve the sport's history and educate new fans. An accomplished engineer, he continued to refine racecar technology long after retiring from competition. Widely respected in motorsports, he was inducted into multiple halls of fame. Garlits remains an icon whose contributions reshaped drag racing around the world.

Pierre Darmon was a leading figure in French tennis during the 1950s and 1960s, achieving a career-high ranking in the world's top ten. He captained France's Davis Cup team to multiple victories and was known for his elegant one-handed backhand. Darmon won several international tournaments and made deep runs at Wimbledon and the US Open. After retiring from competition, he served as a tennis administrator and mentored young players. His dedication to the sport helped raise the profile of French tennis on the global stage. Darmon's expertise and sportsmanship left a lasting impact on future generations of players.

Alberto Rodríguez Larreta represented Argentina in Formula One, making his debut with Team Lotus in 1960. He participated in several World Championship Grands Prix, securing a best finish of fifth place at the 1962 South African Grand Prix. Larreta's skill behind the wheel earned him recognition in European racing circles and inspired a generation of Argentine drivers. After his racing career, he remained active in motorsport, contributing to driver development initiatives in South America. His premature death in a racing accident in 1977 cut short a career that had promised much. Larreta is remembered as a trailblazer for Latin American talent in Formula One.

Ken Higgs played first-class cricket primarily for Nottinghamshire, taking over 2,000 wickets during his long career from the mid-1950s to the early 1970s. His disciplined bowling earned him a place in the England Test side in the 1962 and 1963 Ashes series. After retiring, Higgs served as a coach, mentoring young cricketers and influencing coaching methods at county level. Known for his accuracy and consistency, he was a respected figure in English cricket circles. Higgs's legacy endures through his coaching and the contributions he made to the sport's development. He passed away in 2016, remembered for his dedication and sportsmanship.

Sonny Siebert played in the majors from 1964 to 1977 for teams including the Cleveland Indians, Boston Red Sox, and St. Louis Cardinals. Transitioning from outfielder to pitcher early in his career, he developed a formidable curveball. Siebert threw a no-hitter on June 10, 1966, against the Washington Senators. He was selected to the All-Star Game in four seasons and finished his career with over 120 wins. After retiring, he remained active in youth baseball coaching.