David Wilkie
Swimmer, Olympic gold medalist
Born
March 8th, 1954
71 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 2024
1 years ago — 70 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Sri Lanka
Links & References
Born in Sri Lanka and raised in Scotland, a competitive swimmer specialized in breaststroke events. Achieved significant success in the 1970s, winning a gold medal in the 200-meter breaststroke at the 1976 Montreal Olympics. Set world records in multiple events, contributing to the prominence of swimming in the United Kingdom. Retired from competitive swimming after an illustrious career and later engaged in coaching and sports commentary.
Gold medal in 200m breaststroke at 1976 Olympics
Set world record in 200m breaststroke
Won multiple medals at Commonwealth Games
Other People Born on March 8th
Greg Barker
Baron Barker of Battle served as a member of the House of Lords. Contributed to various parliamentary committees and played a significant role in shaping policies related to energy and environment while serving as Minister of State for Energy. Engaged in discussions regarding climate change and sustainable energy solutions. Had a notable career in politics, representing the interests of constituents in the context of national policy-making.
Continue ReadingCharlotte Whitton
Served as the 46th Mayor of Ottawa, holding office from 1951 to 1956. Worked as a prominent journalist, contributing to issues related to women and social welfare. Played a significant role in the development of public services in Ottawa. Advocated for women's rights throughout her career and was a key figure in various civic organizations. Pioneered efforts for childcare and family support within the city.
Continue ReadingGerald Potterton
An English-Canadian animator, director, and producer. Studied at the Royal College of Art in London. Worked on the television series 'The Magic Roundabout.' Directed the animated film 'Heavy Metal,' which gained a cult following and was released in 1981. Contributed to various other animated projects and worked in both television and film throughout a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingRui Machida
Born in Japan, this basketball player has excelled in the sport, particularly in women's leagues. A standout at Tachikawa Gakuen High School, she later played for the Fujitsu Red Wave in the Women's Japan Professional Basketball League. Achievements include leading the league in assists multiple seasons and earning accolades for her playmaking ability. Internationally, she represented Japan in several tournaments, further showcasing her skills on a global stage.
Continue ReadingJohn McPhee
An author and educator, this individual has made significant contributions to literature, particularly in the genre of nonfiction. A graduate of Princeton University, taught writing at universities including Princeton and the University of California, Berkeley. Wrote extensively about environmental issues, sports, and American culture. Authored numerous books, with 'Coming into the Country' highlighting the Alaskan wilderness and its inhabitants. Recipient of multiple awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography in 1999 for 'Annals of the Former World'.
Continue ReadingKonstantinos Karamanlis
A significant figure in Greek politics, served as Prime Minister and later as President of Greece. Founded the New Democracy party in 1974, promoting parliamentary democracy. Oversaw Greece's entry into the European Economic Community in 1981, enhancing Greece's international integration. Played a crucial role during Greece's transition from military junta to democracy.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 22nd
Nicky Hayden
Achieved prominence as a professional motorcycle racer in the MotoGP World Championship. Won the MotoGP World Championship in 2006 while riding for the Repsol Honda Team, showcasing remarkable skill and competitiveness. Competed in various motorcycle racing events, including the Superbike World Championship, and contributed to the sport through his performances on the track.
Continue ReadingErnst Toller
A significant figure in German literature, this individual was a key playwright associated with the Expressionist movement. Active during the early 20th century, contributions included plays that addressed the societal issues of the time, reflecting personal and political turmoil. After serving in World War I, engagement in the Bavarian Soviet Republic occurred, although it was short-lived. Following political exile, a focus on writing continued, producing works that explored themes of existence and human struggle. The major work 'Man and the Masses' stood out as a reflection of his political convictions and artistic philosophy.
Continue ReadingSher Shah Suri
A significant figure in Indian history, established the Suri Empire after defeating Mughal Emperor Humayun in 1540. Implemented major administrative reforms that improved governance and taxation. Introduced the currency system with the issuance of silver coins and improved infrastructure, including the construction of roads such as the Grand Trunk Road. Focused on promoting trade and commerce, enhancing the economic conditions of the region. His reign ended with his death in 1545.
Continue ReadingPieter Willemsz. Verhoeff
Served as a captain in the early 17th century, leading expeditions for the Dutch East India Company. Played a significant role in maritime exploration and trade in Asia, notably in the region that is now Indonesia. The expeditions contributed to the establishment of Dutch colonial interests and trade routes in the spice trade.
Continue ReadingLefty Grove
Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1925 to 1941. Spent the majority of career with the Philadelphia Athletics and Boston Red Sox. Achieved recognition for premier pitching skills, including a fastball and curveball that perplexed hitters. Secured an impressive record of wins, earning the title of Most Valuable Player in 1931. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1947, solidifying a legacy in the sport.
Continue ReadingVladimir Katriuk
Served as an officer in the Nazi SS during World War II. Operated in Ukraine where significant atrocities occurred. After the war, settled in Canada and lived there until death. His activities and past as an SS officer attracted attention and controversy in later years, leading to debates about his war crimes and personal history.
Continue Reading