March 05

Born in 1873 in Morgedal, Norway, Olav Bjaaland was a champion cross-country skier known for winning national races. He joined Roald Amundsen's 1910–1912 Antarctic expedition, bringing invaluable skiing expertise to the team. Bjaaland's skill and endurance helped the party traverse the polar plateau to reach the South Pole on December 14, 1911. He crafted customized skis and trained fellow explorers in Nordic techniques, enhancing the expedition's success. After returning to Norway, he continued to promote skiing and mountaineering. Bjaaland received honors for his polar achievements and remained an active sports figure until his death in 1961. His pioneering spirit bridged athletic excellence and the age of Antarctic exploration.

Elisabeth Moore was born in 1876 and emerged as a leading tennis player. She won the US National Championships singles title in 1896, 1901, 1903, and 1905. Moore was celebrated for her steady baseline game and tactical intelligence. She also captured multiple national titles in women's doubles with different partners. After retiring from competition, she dedicated herself to coaching young players and exhibitions. She passed away in 1959, remembered as one of America's pioneering tennis champions.

Freddie Welsh (1886–1927), born Frederick Hall Thomas, rose to prominence as one of the era's finest featherweight fighters. He traveled to the United States and Australia to pursue a professional career, earning a reputation for his technical skill and speed. In 1914, he captured the World Featherweight Championship by defeating Johnny Kilbane and successfully defended it several times. Nicknamed the 'Welsh Wizard,' he was admired for his defensive prowess and scientific approach to boxing. After retiring from the ring, he worked as a trainer and promoter, contributing to the sport's growth. He passed away in 1927, remembered as a pioneering figure in early 20th-century boxing.

Milt Schmidt spent his entire NHL career with the Boston Bruins from 1936 to 1955, earning three Stanley Cup championships as a player. He served as team captain and was known for his leadership, skillful play, and sportsmanship. After retiring as a player, Schmidt became head coach and general manager of the Bruins, shaping the team's competitive edge in the 1960s. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1961, he remained an ambassador for the sport for decades. Until his death in 2017, Schmidt was celebrated as one of the game's all-time greats and longest-lived former NHL players.

Red Storey began his athletic career playing football for the Sarnia Imperials, winning multiple championships in Canadian senior football. Transitioning to officiating, he became one of Canada’s most sought-after referees in both football and hockey, officiating Stanley Cup finals. After an abrupt departure from refereeing following controversy, he found success as a sportscaster and television personality. Storey's candid commentary and deep knowledge of sports endeared him to audiences nationwide. His contributions to Canadian sports were honored with inductions into several halls of fame.

Elmer Valo (1921–1998) was a Czechoslovakian-born American professional baseball outfielder whose career in Major League Baseball spanned over two decades. A versatile player, he appeared for teams including the Philadelphia Athletics, Cleveland Indians, and New York Yankees. Valo became one of the game’s most feared pinch hitters, ranking among the all-time leaders in pinch hits. After retiring as a player, he served as a coach for the New York Mets, helping develop future stars. His dedication to the sport and longevity in the majors made him a respected figure in baseball history.

Roger Marche (1924–1997) was one of France’s most celebrated football defenders, earning 63 caps for the national team between 1947 and 1959. Nicknamed 'Le Sanglier des Ardennes' for his powerful play, he represented France in the 1954 and 1958 FIFA World Cups. At club level, Marche won Ligue 1 titles with Stade de Reims and was known for his leadership and resilience on the pitch. His longevity at the top level made him a national icon in post-war French football. After retiring, he remained involved in the sport, inspiring future generations of defenders. Marche’s legacy endures as a benchmark for defensive excellence in French football history.

Erik Carlsson (1929–2015) was a pioneering Swedish rally driver whose fearlessness behind the wheel earned him the nickname 'Carlsson på taket' ('Carlsson on the roof'). Driving for Saab, he won the Monte Carlo Rally in 1962 and 1963, showcasing the agility of compact cars. Carlsson’s success elevated Saab’s international reputation and inspired generations of racers. After retiring from competition, he worked as a test driver and motorsport brand ambassador. Known for his engaging personality, he wrote memoirs recounting his adventures and challenges on demanding courses. Carlsson’s legacy endures as a symbol of innovation and passion in rallying history.

John Ashley began his career as a defenseman in Canadian amateur leagues before transitioning to officiating at the professional level. He became one of the first former players to serve as a National Hockey League referee, known for his fairness and command of the game. Ashley officiated numerous Stanley Cup playoffs and helped modernize referee training programs. His dual experience as player and official gave him unique insight into the sport. He was respected by players and coaches alike for his integrity.

Del Crandall played 17 seasons in Major League Baseball, most notably as the starting catcher for the Milwaukee Braves during their 1957 World Series championship run. He was a four-time All-Star and earned a reputation for handling pitching staffs with exceptional expertise. After retiring as a player, Crandall managed in the majors and minors, mentoring young players and emphasizing fundamentals. His contributions to the game were recognized with his induction into the Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame. Crandall's leadership on and off the field made him a respected figure in baseball history.

Dale Douglass was born in 1936 in Eureka, Kansas. He turned professional in 1959 and competed on the PGA Tour for over two decades. His first PGA Tour victory came at the 1972 Hawaiian Open. Over his career, he claimed four PGA Tour titles and eight Senior PGA Tour championships. Known for his smooth putting and consistency, he remained a formidable competitor into his late 50s. After retiring from competition, he served as a club professional and mentor until his passing in 2022.

Fred Williamson was born in 1938 in Gary, Indiana. He played defensive back in the AFL for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Oakland Raiders, and Kansas City Chiefs, earning All-Star honors. After retiring from football, he transitioned to acting and starred in films such as Black Caesar and The Hammer. Nicknamed "The Hammer," he became a prominent figure in 1970s Blaxploitation cinema. Williamson founded his own production company and took on directing, producing, and screenwriting roles. He has continued to act in film and television, paving the way for African-American filmmakers in Hollywood.