February 06

Born in 1882 in Texas, Gabby Street enjoyed a successful major league career as a catcher, most notably with the St. Louis Cardinals. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to coaching and became the Cardinals' manager in 1930. Under his leadership, the team won the 1931 World Series, earning him widespread acclaim. Known for his engaging personality and strategic insight, Street later became a popular baseball broadcaster. His contributions helped shape the modern approach to player management and game strategy. He passed away in 1951, leaving a legacy as both a player and leader in America's pastime.

On February 6, 1958, a plane carrying the Manchester United football team and staff crashed during takeoff from Munich-Riem Airport. The disaster claimed the lives of eight players, known as the 'Busby Babes', along with club staff and journalists. Among the deceased were Geoff Bent, Roger Byrne, Eddie Colman, Walter Crickmer, Mark Jones, David Pegg, Frank Swift, and Tommy Taylor. Manager Matt Busby and several other teammates survived but faced long recoveries. The tragedy sent shockwaves through the football world, leading to an outpouring of grief and solidarity. In memory of the victims, annual commemorations and monuments have been established at Old Trafford and in Munich. Their legacy endures in Manchester United's storied history and the resilience demonstrated in rebuilding the team.

Lew 'Sneaky Pete' Robinson was an influential American drag racer in the 1960s. He earned his nickname for his cunning race tactics and precision at the strip. In 1963, he became the first driver to exceed 200 mph in a Top Fuel dragster under NHRA sanction. Robinson later joined the Reher-Morrison team and won numerous national events. His innovations in chassis design and driving technique shaped modern drag racing. He tragically died in a racing accident in 1971, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Arthur Ashe was an acclaimed American tennis player who made history as the first African-American man to win the US Open in 1968 and Wimbledon in 1975. He was renowned for his graceful serve-and-volley style and strategic acumen on the court. Off the court, Ashe was a dedicated humanitarian and civil rights activist, advocating against apartheid and later raising awareness about HIV/AIDS after his own diagnosis. He transitioned to a successful career as a sportscaster and author, using his platform to highlight social injustices. His legacy lives on through the Arthur Ashe Foundation, which supports education and health initiatives worldwide.

Phil Walters, nicknamed 'Ted Tappet', was an influential American race car driver renowned for his skill in sports car endurance events. He began his career in the 1930s and became one of the first American drivers to compete professionally in Europe. Walters set speed records on Daytona Beach and achieved class victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. After retiring from competition, he co-founded a successful California Mercedes-Benz dealership. His pioneering spirit helped establish the foundation for modern American sports car racing.

Leonard 'Lew' Burdette (1926–2007) was a standout right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball who played 17 seasons with teams like the Milwaukee Braves and St. Louis Cardinals. He was named the 1957 World Series MVP after winning three games, including the decisive Game 7, to lead the Braves to their only championship in Milwaukee. Over his career, Burdette amassed 203 wins, five All-Star selections, and a reputation for fierce competitiveness. After retiring as a player, he enjoyed a long coaching career, mentoring young pitchers across several organizations. His postseason heroics and enduring passion for the game cemented his legacy in baseball history.

Willye White (1939–2007) was a pioneering American long jumper and sprinter who became the first U.S. woman to compete in five Olympic Games, from 1956 to 1976. At just 17 years old, she won a silver medal in the long jump at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, marking the youngest American track and field medalist at the time. White also earned multiple medals at the Pan American Games and set world-best marks in the long jump during her career. After retiring from competition, she dedicated herself to coaching and mentoring young athletes in her hometown of Chicago. Her achievements and advocacy left a lasting impact on women's track and field in the United States.

Tony Rolt (1918–2008) was a British lieutenant colonel, engineer, and celebrated racing driver who escaped twice from German prisoner-of-war camps during World War II. After the war, he partnered with Duncan Hamilton to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1953. Rolt co-founded FF Developments alongside Freddie Wisdom, pioneering four-wheel drive technology for military vehicles and competition cars. His engineering breakthroughs influenced automotive design for decades. Blending military bravery with motorsport innovation, Rolt remained a respected figure in both fields until his death at age 90.

Born in 1922 in Santa Rita, New Mexico, Ralph Kiner debuted in Major League Baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1946. He led the National League in home runs for seven consecutive seasons and earned six All-Star selections. Kiner was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1975 in recognition of his power-hitting prowess. After retiring as a player, he became the iconic radio and television broadcaster for the New York Mets, coining endearing nicknames for players. His warm voice and storytelling endeared him to generations of baseball fans. Kiner also authored books on baseball and served as commissioner of the Senior Professional Baseball Association. He passed away in 2014, remembered for his dual legacy on and off the field.

Joost van der Westhuizen was born in Pretoria and made his Springboks debut in 1993. As a scrum-half, he was celebrated for his swift running, tactical acumen, and defensive tenacity. He played a pivotal role in South Africa's 1995 Rugby World Cup victory, a landmark moment in sports history. Over his career, he earned 89 caps and scored 38 Test tries, cementing his status as a rugby legend. After retiring, a diagnosis of motor neuron disease led him to campaign for awareness and research. Van der Westhuizen established a foundation that supported patients and promoted medical advancements. He passed away in 2017, remembered as both a sporting icon and a compassionate advocate.

Greta Andersen was born in 1927 and excelled in freestyle swimming from a young age. She won gold in the 100m freestyle at the 1948 London Olympics and silver in the 4×100m relay. Andersen later moved to the United States and became a pioneering marathon swimmer. She set world records in long-distance events and popularized open-water competitions. Her achievements earned her induction into the International Swimming Hall of Fame. She inspired future generations of swimmers with her versatility and endurance.

Born in Salford in 1932, Geoff Bent joined Manchester United's youth system and made his first team debut in 1953. A composed full-back known for his tactical awareness and strong tackling, he quickly became a reliable defender in reserve and friendly matches. Although first-team opportunities were limited, his professionalism and potential were clear to all who saw him play. On 6 February 1958, he tragically lost his life in the Munich air disaster, bringing an abrupt end to a promising career. Bent's memory lives on as a symbol of youthful promise and dedication at Manchester United.