Geoff Duke

Motorcycle Racer - Isle of Man TT Champion

Geoff Duke - Motorcycle Racer - Isle of Man TT Champion
Born

March 29th, 1923
102 years ago

Died

May 1st, 2015
10 years ago — 92 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Isle of Man

Links & References

Achieved significant success as a motorcycle racer, particularly noted for victories in the Isle of Man TT races during the 1950s. Won the Senior TT race six times and secured multiple world championships in road racing. Competed for teams including Norton and Gilera, contributing to advancements in motorcycle technology and speed. His performances elevated the profile of motorcycle racing globally, and he became a prominent figure within the sport.

Secured six Senior TT race victories

Won four World Championships

Raced for Norton and Gilera

Other People Born on March 29th

Christopher Lambert

Actor known for Highlander and Mortal Kombat
Born
March 29th, 1957 68 years ago

Born in 1957, an American-French actor gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s. Achieved fame through roles in iconic films such as 'Highlander' and 'Mortal Kombat.' Expanded career in both American and European cinema, showcasing a range of character portrayals. Beyond acting, ventured into directing and producing, contributing to the film industry from multiple angles.

Continue Reading

Hamzah bin Hussein

Jordanian prince and royal figure
Born
March 29th, 1980 45 years ago

Born into the Jordanian royal family, served as the Crown Prince of Jordan from 1999 until 2004. Educated at prestigious institutions, including Harvard University. Engaged in various philanthropic endeavors, focusing on health and education reforms. Involved in regional and international dialogue concerning Middle Eastern affairs, advocating for peace and stability in the region.

Continue Reading

Jlloyd Samuel

Trinidadian footballer and defender
Born
March 29th, 1981 44 years ago
Died
2018 7 years ago — 37 years old

A Trinidadian footballer played primarily as a defender. Played in the English Premier League for Aston Villa and later for Cardiff City. Represented Trinidad and Tobago at the international level, earning numerous caps and contributing to the national team during his career.

Continue Reading

Cy Young

Baseball pitcher and manager, Cy Young Award
Born
March 29th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1955 70 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent baseball pitcher and manager, achieved significant recognition in Major League Baseball. Played for teams including the Cleveland Spiders, St. Louis Cardinals, and Boston Red Sox. Established a long-lasting legacy in the sport, marked by an unparalleled career that included multiple pitching milestones and records. Following retirement, an annual award for the best pitchers in the league was named in honor, reflecting a distinguished impact on baseball history.

Continue Reading

Vincent Gigante

Boxer and organized crime figure
Born
March 29th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
December 19th, 2005 19 years ago — 77 years old

Engaged in professional boxing in the 1940s and became a notable figure in organized crime. Led the Genovese crime family in New York City for decades. Known for employing various tactics to evade law enforcement, including pretending to be mentally ill. Operated within the complexities of the Mafia while influencing significant activities in organized crime during the mid to late 20th century.

Continue Reading

Richard Rodney Bennett

Composer and educator of classical music
Born
March 29th, 1936 89 years ago
Died
December 24th, 2012 12 years ago — 76 years old

Born in England, this composer and educator established a significant career in music spanning several genres, including jazz and classical. He composed numerous works for orchestra, chamber ensembles, and jazz ensembles. The composer moved to the United States in 1970, where he continued to create influential music and teach. Significant contributions include film scores and collaborations with prominent conductors and musicians. His ability to blend different musical styles contributed to a lasting legacy in both education and composition.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on May 1st

Stefan Uroš I of Serbia

King of Serbia during the 13th century
Born
1223 802 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1277 748 years ago — 54 years old

Ruled as King of Serbia from 1243 until 1277, facilitating significant territorial expansion. Oversaw the strengthening of the Serbian state and the establishment of feudal systems. Fostered relations with other kingdoms in the region, particularly with the Byzantine Empire. Known for his efforts to promote economic stability and enhance the church's influence within Serbian society. Introduced administrative reforms that laid groundwork for Serbia's future governance.

Continue Reading

LeRoy Samse

American pole vaulter, Olympic medalist
Born
September 13th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1956 69 years ago — 72 years old

Competed in pole vaulting, achieving notable success in the early 20th century. Won a bronze medal at the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London. Set several records during competition and contributed to the popularization of the sport in the United States. Participated in various athletic events throughout his career, showcasing talent and skill in track and field.

Continue Reading

Johann Ludwig Bach

German violinist and composer, orchestral works
Born
February 4th, 1677 348 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1731 294 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1677, this German violinist and composer contributed significantly to the Baroque music era. Associated with the Bach family, he composed various orchestral works and violin pieces. His music reflects the stylistic features of the time and showcases a blend of melodic and harmonic elements. Many compositions remain influential in classical music, studied and performed to this day. His efforts also included the establishment of musical traditions that extended beyond his lifetime, impacting future generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Ted Lowe

Sportscaster best known for snooker commentary
Born
November 1st, 1920 105 years ago
Died
May 1st, 2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent English sportscaster specialized in snooker, contributions to sports broadcasting included commentary on pivotal tournaments. Provided a distinctive voice and analysis that became integral to the sport's television coverage. Worked for the BBC, covering major snooker events such as the World Snooker Championship. Established a legacy in sports media that influenced future generations of sportscasters.

Continue Reading

Denise Robins

English journalist and author known for novels
Born
February 1st, 1897 128 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1985 40 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1897, this English journalist and author became notable for writing a series of popular romantic novels. Contributing to the genre, she authored over 30 novels that captured the attention of a wide readership. Her works often explored themes of love and relationships, gaining her a significant following throughout her career. In addition to her fiction writing, this individual worked as a journalist, contributing to various publications. She served as a founding member of the Romantic Novelists' Association, which supports and promotes the genre. Throughout her life, she remained active in literary circles, fostering relationships with other writers and participating in literary events until her death in 1980.

Continue Reading

Walter de Gray

English prelate and statesman
Died
May 1st, 1255 770 years ago — None years old

Served as the Archbishop of York and played a significant role in the church and political affairs of 13th century England. Engaged in various disputes with both kings and other church officials while overseeing ecclesiastical matters. Functioned as a counselor to several monarchs. Instrumental in supporting the establishment of churches and monasteries across his province. Promoted the interests of the church during a period of considerable strife.

Continue Reading