James Plaskett
Chess player and author
A chess player and author who competed at the grandmaster level. Represented England in international competitions. Gained recognition for noteworthy performances in tournaments throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Contributed to chess literature, writing books aimed at both beginner and advanced players. Developed a reputation within the chess community for strategic insights and analysis.
Competed as a grandmaster
Represented England in chess tournaments
Authored books on chess strategy
Other People Born on March 18th
Jerry Cantrell
Singer-songwriter and guitarist for Alice in Chains
Born
March 18th, 1966 60 years ago
A prominent figure in the Seattle grunge movement, this artist co-founded the rock band Alice in Chains in 1987. The band achieved significant commercial success during the 1990s, known for a distinctive sound that blended heavy metal and acoustic elements. The release of the landmark album 'Dirt' in 1992 solidified the band's reputation, featuring hit singles like 'Would?' and 'Rooster'. As a guitarist and primary songwriter, contributions included deeply personal lyrics and innovative guitar riffs. The band faced a period of hiatus due to personal struggles but reunited in the mid-2000s, continuing to tour and release new music.
Continue ReadingMike Rowe
Television personality and worker advocate
Born
March 18th, 1962 64 years ago
Became a prominent television personality through hosting the series 'Dirty Jobs,' which aired on Discovery Channel. The show highlighted difficult and often underappreciated jobs across the United States. Rowe has also worked as a narrator for several documentary series, including 'Deadliest Catch' and 'Shark Week.' Beyond television, he founded the mikeroweWORKS Foundation to promote vocational education and skilled trades. Rowe has spoken publicly on issues surrounding the workforce and the importance of tradespeople in the economy.
Continue ReadingJordan Whitehead
American football safety, Super Bowl champion
Born
March 18th, 1997 29 years ago
Played college football at the University of Pittsburgh, achieving All-ACC honors. Selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Competed as a safety and contributed to the team’s defensive strategies. Helped lead the Buccaneers to victory in Super Bowl LV, marking a significant achievement in professional career.
Continue ReadingRick Martel
Professional wrestler and AWA champion
Born
March 18th, 1956 70 years ago
Born in 1956, a Canadian wrestler began a prominent career in professional wrestling during the 1970s. Achieved fame in the American Wrestling Association (AWA), where held the AWA World Heavyweight Championship. Additionally performed in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), gaining popularity as a character known as 'The Model.' Became a key figure in tag team wrestling while performing alongside partners in various promotions. Also made notable contributions to international wrestling circuits throughout the 1980s and 1990s, wrestling for various organizations across Canada, Japan, and the United States. Retired in the late 1990s but remained involved in wrestling through appearances at fan conventions and events.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Ottavio Pitoni
Italian organist and composer
Born
March 18th, 1657 369 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1743 283 years ago — 85 years old
An influential Italian composer and organist, contributed significantly to the Baroque music scene. Worked primarily in Rome, where compositions included numerous choral works and motets. Also known for sacred music, particularly in the tradition of the Roman Catholic Church. Authored numerous compositions that enhanced the liturgical music of his time, combining Italian musical traditions with Counter-Reformation ideals.
Continue ReadingJeff Stelling
Journalist and television presenter
Born
March 18th, 1955 71 years ago
An English journalist and television presenter, focused primarily on sports broadcasting. Stelling gained prominence as a host of the football results show 'Soccer Saturday' on Sky Sports, where live updates and discussions of football matches were provided. His engaging presentation style contributed to the show's popularity. Additionally, Stelling hosted the quiz show 'Countdown' from 2009 to 2011, further showcasing his versatility in television hosting. His career spans several decades in sports journalism, making significant contributions to the discourse around football in England.
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