Bob Richards

Olympic pole vaulter and athlete

Bob Richards - Olympic pole vaulter and athlete
Born

February 20th, 1926
99 years ago

Died

2023
2 years ago — 97 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

United States

Links & References

Competed in track and field, specializing in pole vaulting. Achieved significant success in the 1950s and 1960s, winning multiple Olympic gold medals. Set numerous world records during the career and was a prominent figure in athletics. Contributed to the popularity of the pole vault event through competitive and public engagements.

Won gold medals in pole vault at the 1952 and 1956 Olympics

Set world records in pole vaulting multiple times

Other People Born on February 20th

Thomas Cajetan

Italian philosopher and theologian
Born
February 20th, 1469 556 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1534 490 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in the Renaissance, contributed significantly to scholastic theology and philosophy. Served as a cardinal and led the Dominican order in the 16th century. Engaged in debates regarding Reformation ideas, emphasizing the importance of faith and reason. Authored numerous works, critically analyzing the thoughts of Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas. His commentary on Aquinas remains a touchstone in the study of theology.

Continue Reading

Joost van der Westhuizen

Rugby player and World Cup champion
Born
February 20th, 1971 54 years ago
Died
February 6th, 2017 8 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent rugby union player represented South Africa. Primarily played as a scrum-half, notable contributions occurred during the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Part of the Springboks team that secured victory against New Zealand in the final held at Ellis Park. Known for exceptional speed, agile play, and defensive skills on the field. Transitioned into coaching and rugby commentary after retirement, sharing expertise and insights into the sport.

Continue Reading

Poison Ivy

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 20th, 1953 72 years ago

Started a music career in the late 1970s, co-founding the band The Cramps, which became a significant figure in the punk and psychobilly scenes. Contributed as a guitarist and vocalist, and co-wrote many of the band's songs. Released numerous albums, achieving a dedicated cult following. Known for a distinctive style that combined elements of rockabilly, punk, and horror aesthetics.

Continue Reading

Olivia Rodrigo

Singer-songwriter and actress with hits
Born
February 20th, 2003 22 years ago

Gained recognition as an actress in the Disney+ series High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. Transitioned to music and released the debut album Sour in 2021, which included chart-topping singles. Achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying a place in the pop music scene.

Continue Reading

Francesco Maria II della Rovere

Duke of Urbino, last Duke of Urbino
Born
February 20th, 1549 476 years ago
Died
1631 394 years ago — 82 years old

Duke of Urbino from 1538 until death in 1574, served as a notable patron of the arts and humanism during the Renaissance. Oversaw a court that attracted artists and intellectuals. Maintained political power amidst shifting alliances and conflicts. Continued the lineage and legacy of the Montefeltro family, contributing to the cultural heritage of the region. His reign concluded the era of the independent Duchy of Urbino, which was central to the Italian Renaissance.

Continue Reading

Phil Neal

Footballer and manager with Liverpool
Born
February 20th, 1951 74 years ago

Played as a right-back and later managed teams in English football. Achieved significant success during a playing career primarily with Liverpool, where he won numerous domestic and European titles. Transitioned to management after retiring, overseeing various clubs and contributing to the development of players and teams.

Continue Reading