Gino Valenzano
Italian race car driver, Mille Miglia winner

Born
April 24th, 1920
105 years ago
Died
May 28th, 2011
13 years ago — 91 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Italy
Links & References
Competed in the Mille Miglia, an open-road endurance race in Italy. Achieved victory in the 1951 edition of the event, driving a Ferrari. Participated in various other racing events throughout the 1950s, showcasing talent and skill on the track. Known for contributions to the Italian motorsport scene during a vibrant era in automobile racing.
Won the Mille Miglia in 1951 driving a Ferrari
Participated in numerous endurance races
Contributed to the Italian motorsport legacy
Other People Born on April 24th
Marc-Adélard Tremblay
Born in 1922, this individual made significant contributions to the field of anthropology, focusing on Indigenous cultures in Canada. Education formed a major part of the career, with a long tenure at the Université de Montréal, where teachings emphasized cultural anthropology. Research involved extensive fieldwork among various Indigenous groups, exploring their social structures, rituals, and practices. Publications in academic journals highlighted findings and raised awareness of cultural preservation. An influential mentor to many students, this individual shaped the academic landscape for future anthropologists in Canada.
Continue ReadingJoão Braz de Aviz
Born in 1947, one served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church and held significant leadership positions within the church. Ordained as a priest in 1972, one was appointed Bishop of Ponta Grossa in 2004, later becoming Archbishop of Brasília in 2010. In 2011, one was elevated to cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI. As a cardinal, one contributed to various congregations and councils, focusing on issues of ecclesiastical governance and the life of the church worldwide. In 2012, one became the Prefect of the Congregation for Religious Life, a key role involving the oversight of religious orders and communities.
Continue ReadingAlessandro Costacurta
Born in 1966, a professional football career spanned from 1986 to 2007, primarily with AC Milan. Played as a defender, contributing to the team's success during a significant era. Achieved numerous titles, including seven Serie A championships and five UEFA Champions League titles. Transitioned to coaching after retirement, holding positions with various clubs and the Italian national team. His tactical knowledge and experience from a lengthy playing career informed coaching methods.
Continue ReadingGideon Sundback
An engineer and inventor contributed significantly to the design of the modern zipper, which became an essential fastening device in various industries, including clothing and luggage. Developed the automatic zipper machine that improved production efficiency, allowing for mass manufacturing. The design enhancements made by this engineer greatly influenced fashion and manufacturing practices in the 20th century. Additionally, filed multiple patents related to the zipper mechanism, securing a lasting legacy in textile and industrial design.
Continue ReadingEric Snow
A professional basketball player and coach, this individual played primarily as a point guard. Career achievements include playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, leading the team to the NBA Eastern Conference Finals in 2001. Transitioned into coaching following retirement, contributing to the development of younger players.
Continue ReadingFrédéric Niemeyer
A professional tennis player and coach, achieved notable success on the ATP Tour and in Grand Slam tournaments. Played primarily in the late 1990s and early 2000s, achieving a career-high singles ranking of 65 in 2001. Contributed to Canadian tennis as a coach, focusing on the development of young players. Participated in the Davis Cup representing Canada.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 28th
Oleg Grigoryevich Makarov
An engineer and astronaut, contributed to space exploration through various missions. Participated in the Soyuz program and was a key figure in conducting scientific research in orbit. Flew on three space missions, including a significant role aboard Soyuz 10, which aimed to dock with the Salyut 1 space station, and Soyuz 12. Makarov's work advanced the understanding of the effects of space travel on the human body.
Continue ReadingJuan de Ayala y Escobar
Served as the Governor of Spanish Florida from 1716 to 1718. During the tenure, focused on consolidating Spanish presence in the territory and managing relations with indigenous tribes. Oversaw the establishment of settlements and fortifications to strengthen defenses against British encroachment. His governance contributed to the stability of Spanish Florida in the early 18th century.
Continue ReadingBoris Kustodiev
A prominent Russian painter and stage designer, Kustodiev gained recognition for works that reflect Russian life, folklore, and culture. His artistic style combines realism with elements of Russian folk art, characterized by vibrant colors and rich textures. His major work, 'The Bolshevik', exemplifies this blend and captures the spirit of the early Soviet era. In addition to painting, he designed sets for various theatrical productions, significantly contributing to Russian theatre aesthetics during the early 20th century. Kustodiev faced health challenges throughout life, which influenced his perspective and subject matter in art.
Continue ReadingFrank Cowper
Engaged in competitive yacht racing and authored several works about yachting. Contributed illustrations to books about maritime activities. Involved in the design and development of yachts and wrote extensively on sailing techniques and navigation. Played a significant role in promoting yacht racing in England during the early 20th century.
Continue ReadingStefan Wyszyński
Born in Poland, a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church served as the Archbishop of Warsaw from 1948 to 1981. Played a significant role in the church's opposition to communism and the promotion of human rights in Poland. Champion of both religious and national identity during a time of political turmoil. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, which modernized the Catholic Church. Contributed to the establishment of a dialogue between the church and the communist authorities, facilitating better conditions for Catholics in Poland.
Continue ReadingFyodor Okhlopkov
Served as a sergeant and sniper in the Soviet Army during World War II. Achieved significant recognition for marksmanship and effectiveness in combat. Participated in several key battles on the Eastern Front. After the war, continued service in the military and contributed to sniper training.
Continue Reading