Johan van der Velde
Dutch professional cyclist, Tour de France
A professional cyclist from the Netherlands achieved notable success in the 1980s. Primarily a road cyclist, specialized in multi-day races and became a prominent figure in the sport. Secured a victory in the 1984 Tour de France's final stage, and competed in multiple Grand Tours, including the Giro d'Italia and Vuelta a España. Demonstrated strong performances in various national championships and other international competitions.
Won the final stage of the 1984 Tour de France
Competed in the Giro d'Italia
Raced in the Vuelta a España
Other People Born on December 12th
Orlando Hudson
Baseball player, 2004 Gold Glove Award
Born
December 12th, 1977 48 years ago
Played Major League Baseball as a second baseman from 2002 to 2014. Teams included the Montreal Expos, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, Chicago White Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks, and San Diego Padres. Contributed to multiple playoff appearances and earned recognition for defensive skills. Achieved the Gold Glove Award in 2004, indicating excellence in fielding. Career statistics include a batting average of .273 with more than 1,000 hits during tenure.
Continue ReadingStand Watie
American Confederate general
Born
December 12th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
1871 155 years ago — 65 years old
Served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Received appointment as the only Native American general in the Confederate forces. Led the Cherokee regiment in notable battles including the Battle of Pea Ridge and the Battle of Honey Springs. After the war, became a political leader in the post-war Cherokee Nation, influencing tribal governance.
Continue ReadingMichael Möllenbeck
German discus thrower and champion
Born
December 12th, 1969 56 years ago
A discus thrower who competed at an elite level, achieving significant success in the sport. Competed in the 1992 Summer Olympics held in Barcelona. Secured a gold medal at the 1994 European Championships in Helsinki, showcasing skill and strength in the event. Retired from competitive athletics after a successful career, contributing to the sport's heritage in Germany.
Continue ReadingJohn Randle
American football defensive tackle
Born
December 12th, 1967 58 years ago
A former defensive tackle, played in the National Football League for the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks. Achieved notable success during the 1990s, recognized for a relentless playing style and strong presence on the field. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010. Contributed significantly to multiple playoff appearances and helped lead the Vikings to the NFC Championship game in 1998.
Continue ReadingPat Calathes
Basketball player, played in Greece
Born
December 12th, 1985 40 years ago
Born in 1985, a basketball player with a career spanning several leagues, primarily played in Greece. Achieved success in the Greek Basket League and competed in European competitions. Played for teams such as Panathinaikos and AEK Athens, contributing to their successes during his tenure. Also represented Greece in international play, showcasing talent at various FIBA competitions.
Continue ReadingBruce Price
Architect, designer of Château Frontenac
Born
December 12th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1903 122 years ago — 57 years old
An architect engaged in the design of significant buildings in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, associated primarily with the Château Frontenac in Quebec City, Canada, and the American Surety Building in New York City. The architectural style often included rich ornamentation and historic influences, showcasing a blend of styles that catered to both residential and commercial needs. Contributed to the burgeoning architectural landscape during a time of rapid urban development.
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