John Walker
New Zealand runner and politician
Carrer included achievements in athletics as a middle-distance runner and roles in New Zealand politics. Competed in the 1976 Olympic Games, winning the gold medal in the 1500 meters. Held a prominent position in the New Zealand House of Representatives, contributing to various policy discussions. Engaged in sports administration after retiring from competitive running, promoting athletics in New Zealand.
Won the gold medal in the 1500 meters at the 1976 Olympics
Served as a Member of Parliament in New Zealand
Other People Born on January 12th
Étienne Lenoir
Engineer and designer of the internal combustion engine
Born
January 12th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 78 years old
A Belgian engineer contributed significantly to automotive engineering by designing one of the first internal combustion engines. This invention marked a crucial step in the development of modern vehicles. Lenoir's engine demonstrated the practical application of gas as a fuel source, leading to advances in machinery and transportation. The popularity of this engine facilitated its adoption in various applications, influencing subsequent engine designs and automotive technology.
Continue ReadingGrzegorz Rasiak
Polish footballer with Premier League experience
Born
January 12th, 1979 46 years ago
A professional footballer played as a forward, primarily in the Polish and English leagues. Started the career at local club, then moved to several teams including Widzew Łódź, where initial success occurred. Later played in the English Premier League for Derby County and Southampton, participating in key matches. Represented the Polish national team, earning multiple caps and contributing to international competitions.
Continue ReadingAllisha Gray
Basketball player, WNBA Champion
Born
January 12th, 1995 30 years ago
A professional basketball player, played for the Dallas Wings and the Atlanta Dream in the WNBA. Contributed to the championship victory of the South Carolina Gamecocks in NCAA women's basketball. Achieved recognition for scoring ability and defensive skills throughout the career. Also earned a gold medal with the USA Women's U18 National Team.
Continue ReadingTim Horton
Ice hockey player, co-founder of Tim Hortons
Born
January 12th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1974 51 years ago — 44 years old
Played professional ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Achieved two Stanley Cup championships with the Maple Leafs in 1962 and 1963. After retiring from hockey, co-founded the Tim Hortons restaurant chain, which became a prominent fast food franchise in Canada. Horton passed away in a car accident in 1974, but his legacy continues through the coffee and donut chain.
Continue ReadingAxel Witsel
Belgian footballer and national team player
Born
January 12th, 1989 36 years ago
A professional footballer played as a midfielder. Started career at Standard Liège, winning the Belgian Pro League in 2008. Transferred to Benfica in 2011, contributing to the team's Primeira Liga title. Joined Russian club Zenit Saint Petersburg in 2012, winning the Russian Premier League, and later played for Tianjin Quanjian in China. Returned to Europe with Borussia Dortmund, competing in the Bundesliga. Regularly represented the national team since 2008, participating in UEFA Euro tournaments and FIFA World Cups.
Continue ReadingAlfred Rosenberg
Architect and politician; Reich Minister
Born
January 12th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 53 years old
Born in Estonia, a noted architect and politician emerged as an influential figure in Nazi Germany. Served as the Reich Minister for the Occupied Eastern Territories, overseeing administrative and political matters in the eastern regions during World War II. Contributed to the development of policy regarding Eastern Europe and its populations. His writings and theories on Aryan culture and heritage significantly influenced Nazi ideology. Involved in the Party's expansion beyond Germany, promoting aggressive territorial policies.
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