1956day.year

Johnny Claes

(1916 - 1956)

English-Belgian race car driver and trumpet player

English-Belgian race car driver and trumpet player
English-Belgian racing driver who also performed as a jazz trumpet player.
Johnny Claes was born in 1916 and pursued careers in motorsport and music. He raced motorcycles and cars, winning several international competitions in the 1930s and 1940s. Alongside racing, he was an accomplished jazz trumpeter, performing under his own name in London. Claes was the first driver to enter a Formula One World Championship Grand Prix in 1950. He balanced his dual passions for speed and music throughout his life, embodying a rare blend of athleticism and artistry. His unique legacy bridges the worlds of racing and jazz.
Johnny Claes
2010day.year

Dick McGuire

(1926 - 2010)

American basketball player and coach

American basketball player and coach
American basketball guard who starred with the New York Knicks and later became a respected coach.
Dick McGuire was a tenacious point guard who played 10 seasons in the NBA, primarily with the New York Knicks. Known for his defensive prowess and playmaking ability, he was named to the All-NBA Second Team. After retiring as a player, he served as head coach for the Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks. McGuire's basketball IQ and leadership influenced many players during his coaching career. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame for his contributions on and off the court. His #15 jersey was retired by the Knicks in honor of his legacy. He later worked as a scout, helping to shape future NBA talent.
2010 Dick McGuire
2015day.year

Charlie Sifford

(1922 - 2015)

American golfer

American golfer
Pioneering African American golfer who broke the PGA Tour color barrier and inspired future generations of players.
Charles Sifford was born in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1922 and turned professional in 1948 amid widespread segregation. Facing discrimination, he persevered and became the first African American to earn full PGA Tour status in 1961. Sifford won two official PGA Tour events, the Los Angeles Open in 1967 and the Greater Hartford Open in 1969. His achievements opened doors for players of color and led to the establishment of the PGA Tour's Diversity Award. In recognition of his impact, he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal and inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. Sifford's resilience and talent not only advanced his own career but also challenged racial barriers in the sport. He passed away in 2015, leaving a lasting legacy as a trailblazer in golf.
Charlie Sifford