Keiko Ihara
Japanese race car driver and champion
A prominent race car driver from Japan, recognized for competing in various international championships. Achieved significant success in the Formula Renault series and participated as the first Japanese female driver in the Le Mans 24 Hours race. Achieved a landmark finish in a predominantly male-dominated sport, advocating for women's participation in motorsports throughout her career. Continues to influence the sport by inspiring aspiring female drivers.
First Japanese female driver in Le Mans 24 Hours
Competed in Formula Renault championships
Other People Born on July 4th
Gertrude Lawrence
British actress of 'The King and I'
Born
July 4th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1952 73 years ago — 54 years old
Born in 1898, an accomplished British actress, singer, and dancer. Achieved recognition on the London stage and later on Broadway. Began her career in musical theater and became prominent in the 1920s. Gained significant acclaim for performances in productions such as 'Hay Fever' and 'The King and I', where she played Anna Leonowens. Her contributions to the theater were notable, earning admiration for her talent and charisma. By the early 1950s, she had established herself as one of the leading figures in musical theater.
Continue ReadingJean-Pierre Blanchard
Pioneer of balloon flight invention
Born
July 4th, 1753 272 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1809 216 years ago — 55 years old
Inventor and aeronaut, played a key role in advancing balloon flight in the late 18th century. Conducted the first successful manned flight in the United States in 1793, launching from Philadelphia. Collaborated with various scientists and made significant contributions to aerial navigation. Developed different types of balloons and contributed to public demonstrations that popularized ballooning in Europe and America.
Continue ReadingWude Ayalew
Ethiopian long-distance runner
Born
July 4th, 1987 38 years ago
Competed in long-distance running events, particularly excelling in the 5000 meters and 10,000 meters. Secured victory at the 2002 World Junior Championships in the 5000 meters. Participated in multiple international competitions, representing Ethiopia and contributing to the country's reputation in athletics. Achieved personal bests that positioned among the elite long-distance runners of her time.
Continue ReadingGuram Kashia
Georgian footballer and defender
Born
July 4th, 1987 38 years ago
A professional footballer from Georgia, played primarily as a defender. Represented several club teams during a career spanning over a decade. Featured prominently in international competitions, contributing significantly to the national team. Played in leagues across different countries, showcasing versatility and skill on the field.
Continue ReadingAmantle Montsho
Botswanan sprinter, 2011 World Champion
Born
July 4th, 1983 42 years ago
Achieved significant success in sprinting, especially in the 400 meters. Competed in the Olympics, representing Botswana in both the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Games. Won the gold medal at the 2011 World Championships in Daegu, becoming the first woman from Botswana to win a World Championship title. Contributed to her country's prominence in track and field.
Continue ReadingMoa Kikuchi
Japanese musician and idol singer
Born
July 4th, 1999 26 years ago
Born in 1999, this musician gained prominence as a member of the metal idol group Babymetal, which combines J-pop and heavy metal elements. The group debuted in 2010 and quickly garnered international attention. Their self-titled debut album was released in 2014, achieving significant commercial success. The performer contributed to the group's unique image and sound, which helped redefine the boundaries of pop music in Japan. The group has toured extensively worldwide, participating in major music festivals and collaborating with various artists.
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