May 04

Richard Baggallay was an English army officer who also gained recognition as a talented cricketer. Educated at Eton and Cambridge, he captained his college cricket team before commissioning into a cavalry regiment. Baggallay served with distinction in the Second Boer War and World War I, earning honors for bravery and leadership. Simultaneously, he played first-class cricket, showcasing his skill as a batsman and fielder in county matches. Baggallay's dual career exemplified the Victorian ideal of the soldier-athlete, and his memoirs reflect on discipline and team spirit across his pursuits.

Ronnie Aird (1902–1986) was an English cricketer who played first-class cricket for Hampshire as a right-handed batsman. After retiring, he became a respected cricket administrator, serving as chairman of the Marylebone Cricket Club and Hampshire CCC. His leadership helped modernize club operations and promote youth development. He upheld cricket's traditions while supporting international tours and domestic competitions. Aird was admired for his dedication to the sport and his role in shaping post-war English cricket.

Walter Walsh (1907–2014) was an American competitive target shooter and holds the record as the oldest FBI agent in history. He won numerous national shooting championships, showcasing exceptional skill with pistol and rifle. During World War II, Walsh served in the FBI and contributed to firearms training and counterintelligence. He coached Olympic shooting teams and set multiple age-group records into his 90s. His remarkable longevity and dedication made him a legend in both law enforcement and sports shooting. Walsh remained active in shooting competitions well past his centenary, inspiring generations of marksmen.

Maedayama Eigorō (1914–1971) was a distinguished Japanese sumo wrestler, promoted to the sport's highest rank of yokozuna in 1942. Born in Oita Prefecture, he began his professional career in the early 1930s and quickly rose through the ranks. Known for his powerful tachi-ai charge and technical skill, he won multiple top-division championships. His yokozuna tenure during World War II featured ceremonial bouts that boosted national morale. After retiring, he served as a sumo coach and stablemaster, training the next generation of rikishi. Maedayama's dynamic fighting style and leadership helped revive sumo in the post-war era.

Betsy Rawls was a dominant force in women's golf during the 1950s. She won eight major championships, including four U.S. Women's Opens and two LPGA Championships. Rawls topped the LPGA money list three times and earned 55 career tour victories. She served as LPGA president from 1958 to 1959, advocating for player rights and tour expansion. After retiring, she remained active in golf education and charity work. Her achievements earned her induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1975.

Harlon Hill was born in 1932 and played college football at Florence State, where he excelled as a receiver. Drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1954, he immediately made an impact, earning NFL Rookie of the Year and two All-Pro selections. Over his six-season career in the league, he led the NFL in receiving yards twice and was known for his reliable hands and toughness. After retiring as a player, Hill coached at the collegiate level, mentoring young athletes and sharing his passion for the game. The Division II national player of the year award is named the Harlon Hill Trophy in his honor, marking his lasting legacy in football.

Georgi Asparuhov, nicknamed 'Gundi', was born in 1943 and became one of Bulgaria's greatest footballers. He starred for Levski Sofia, scoring over 80 goals and winning multiple league titles. Asparuhov also represented Bulgaria in international competitions, netting 8 goals in 44 appearances. Known for his technical skill, powerful shot, and leadership on the field, he inspired a generation of Bulgarian players. His life was tragically cut short in a car accident in 1971, but his legacy endures through the Georgi Asparuhov Stadium and annual tournaments held in his honor.

John Watson is a former Northern Irish racing driver who competed in Formula One from 1973 to 1985. Driving for teams such as McLaren and Brabham, he secured three Grand Prix wins and multiple podium finishes. Watson is remembered for his remarkable performances in the 1982 season, where he narrowly missed the world championship. After retiring from racing, he transitioned to roles as a television commentator and team manager, sharing his expertise with new generations of drivers. His contributions both on and off the track have made him a respected figure in motorsport history.

A former Major League Baseball third baseman who played from 1977 to 1991. He won World Series titles with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1979 and the St. Louis Cardinals in 1982. Known for his consistent batting and defensive skills, he amassed over 1,400 career hits. After retiring as a player, he transitioned to a successful coaching career in both minor and major league organizations. Oberkfell has served as a hitting and infield coach, helping develop future MLB talent. He remains active in baseball clinics and charitable youth sports programs.

An alpine skier who captured the gold medal in the slalom at the 1976 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck at age 17. She represented Canada at both the 1976 and 1980 Winter Olympics. Kreiner also achieved multiple World Cup podium finishes during her competitive career. Her victory in 1976 marked Canada's first Olympic alpine skiing gold medal. After retiring, she has been involved in coaching and ski instruction. She remains an influential figure in Canadian winter sports, inspiring young athletes.

Dawn Staley starred at the University of Virginia before embarking on a professional career that included WNBA championships with the Houston Comets and multiple Olympic gold medals with Team USA. She transitioned to coaching and led the South Carolina Gamecocks to multiple NCAA Final Four appearances and national championships. Known for her leadership and tenacity, Staley has been honored as Naismith Coach of the Year. She is celebrated for her advocacy for women's sports and her impact on basketball culture in America.

Guillermo Barros Schelotto spent the majority of his playing career at Boca Juniors, winning multiple Argentine league titles and Copa Libertadores trophies. He later starred with Major League Soccer's Columbus Crew, earning MVP honors and an MLS Cup championship. Transitioning to coaching, he has managed teams including Lanús and the Paraguayan national team. Known for his vision and technical skill, Schelotto has influenced a generation of South American football. He continues to contribute to the sport as a tactical innovator.