Cathy Freeman
Australian sprinter and Olympic champion
An Australian sprinter achieved prominence in track and field events, particularly in the 400 meters. Competed successfully at various levels, including the Olympics and World Championships. Secured a gold medal during the Sydney 2000 Olympics in the 400 meters, becoming both a national hero and a symbol of reconciliation in Australia. Achieved multiple podium finishes at international championships and held national records in sprinting events.
Gold medal in 400 meters at the 2000 Sydney Olympics
World Champion in 400 meters in 1997
Other People Born on February 16th
Kim Suji
South Korean diver, Olympic contender
Born
February 16th, 1998 27 years ago
Competed in diving for South Korea, participating in events at the 2020 Summer Olympics. Achieved notable success at national championships, securing multiple medals. Represented South Korea in various international competitions, showcasing skills in both individual and synchronized diving events.
Continue ReadingHenry M. Leland
Automotive Entrepreneur and Inventor
Born
February 16th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1932 93 years ago — 89 years old
A machinist and engineer, developed significant advancements in the automotive industry. Founded Cadillac in 1902, introducing precision manufacturing techniques that set industry standards. Established Lincoln Motor Company in 1917, focusing on luxury automobiles. Contributed to mass production methods, influencing automotive design and engineering.
Continue ReadingJerry Owens
Baseball player and outfielder
Born
February 16th, 1981 44 years ago
Played in Major League Baseball primarily as an outfielder for the Chicago White Sox. Debuted in 2006 and contributed to the team's efforts during the regular seasons and in the postseason. Played as a part of the White Sox roster that reached the 2005 World Series and received recognition for speed on the bases and defensive skills in the outfield.
Continue ReadingBernie Geoffrion
Ice hockey player and coach
Born
February 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
March 11th, 2006 19 years ago — 75 years old
An ice hockey player and coach, achieved great success in the National Hockey League (NHL). Played for the Montreal Canadiens and is recognized for contributions to the sport. Transitioned to coaching after retirement. Celebrated for offensive skill and creativity on the ice, making a significant impact in the league during the 1950s and 1960s.
Continue ReadingFrancis Galton
Polymath, anthropologist, and geographer
Born
February 16th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1911 114 years ago — 88 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of anthropology, geography, and statistics. Introduced the concept of eugenics and was a pioneer in the study of human intelligence. Developed statistical methods including correlation and regression and applied them to various fields. Galton's interest in fingerprint analysis led to it being adopted as an identification method. Founded the discipline of biometrics.
Continue ReadingSusanna Kallur
Sprint Hurdler; European Champion
Born
February 16th, 1981 44 years ago
Competed in sprint hurdles, achieving significant success in track and field events. Won a gold medal at the 2006 European Athletics Championships and represented Sweden in multiple international competitions. Recorded a personal best of 12.42 seconds in the 100 meters hurdles, ranking among the elite sprinters in this discipline. Overcame injuries throughout the career while maintaining a presence on the athletics circuit.
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