Ken Venturi
Golf champion and sportscaster

Born
May 15th, 1931
94 years ago
Died
May 17th, 2013
12 years ago — 82 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Accomplished golfer and sportscaster achieved significant recognition in the golfing world. Won the 1964 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club after overcoming a severe personal challenge. Transitioned to a long career in broadcasting with CBS Sports, where provided insightful commentary and analysis of golf tournaments. Contributed to the sport's popularity through a unique ability to connect with audiences.
Won the 1964 U.S. Open
Broadcasted for CBS Sports for several decades
Other People Born on May 15th
Charles E. Rosendahl
Born in 1892, an admiral in the United States Navy, served during both World Wars. Contributed to the development of naval aviation and played a vital role in establishing air transport for the Navy. Commanded various air stations, improving operational readiness in naval aviation. Oversaw the transition of aircraft carrier operations, enhancing naval strategy. After retiring, continued to influence the field through various advisory roles.
Continue ReadingRon Simmons
Played college football at Florida State University as a defensive tackle, earning All-American honors. Enjoyed a professional career in the NFL with the Washington Football Team and the Cleveland Browns. Transitioned to sports entertainment, achieving success in World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW) under the ring name 'Farooq'. Became the first African American to win the wcw World Heavyweight Championship.
Continue ReadingRené Goupil
Born in France, a Jesuit missionary traveled to Canada to engage in missionary work among Indigenous peoples. Encountered challenges during the mission, including language barriers and cultural differences. Demonstrated commitment to the Jesuit mission of spreading Christianity. Captured and martyred during efforts to evangelize in the early colonial period. Canonized as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, recognized for the sacrifice made in the pursuit of faith.
Continue ReadingErsan İlyasova
Born in Turkey, played professional basketball, primarily in the NBA and European leagues. Pioneered the stretch four position with exceptional shooting ability. Achieved success with teams such as Anadolu Efes in Turkey and the Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. Contributed to Turkey's national team, competing in international tournaments including the FIBA World Cup and EuroBasket.
Continue ReadingLucrezia Stefanini
Competed professionally in tennis. Achieved a career-high singles ranking within the top 100 of the WTA. Reached the quarterfinals at multiple WTA events. Represented Italy in international competitions, contributing to national success in team formats.
Continue ReadingBirdy
Born in 1996, this artist gained recognition at a young age with the release of the debut single 'Skinny Love,' which showcased a powerful vocal delivery and emotive songwriting. Debut album, self-titled 'Birdy,' produced multiple chart-topping hits and established a significant following. Collaborations with various artists and contributions to film soundtracks further expanded the singer's reach. Hits include 'People Help the People' and 'Wings,' both receiving critical acclaim and commercial success.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on May 17th
Harmon Killebrew
A professional baseball player, Killebrew spent the majority of his career with the Minnesota Twins. Renowned as a power hitter, he contributed significantly to the team’s success during the 1960s and early 1970s. One of the defining moments of his career came in 1969, when he won the American League Most Valuable Player award, highlighting his exceptional performance throughout the season. Killebrew's career encompassed numerous All-Star selections and he was pivotal in leading the Twins to the World Series in 1965, where the team faced the Los Angeles Dodgers. His prolific home run hitting ability established him as one of the premier sluggers of his era, making a lasting impression in Major League Baseball.
Continue ReadingYvonne Loriod
A prominent pianist and composer, contributions included significant works in contemporary classical music. Loriod was celebrated for interpretations of works by her husband, composer Olivier Messiaen. She played a vital role in presenting many of his compositions and recognized the need for expanded performance techniques. Loriod also contributed to piano repertoire, composing original works that are performed by pianists worldwide. Affiliation with the Paris Conservatory further cemented her influence in the music education field.
Continue ReadingJakob Ehrlich
Ehrlich served in various political roles throughout his career in Austria and Czechoslovakia. He played a significant role in the political landscape during the interwar period. As a member of the Czechoslovak National Council, he worked on issues related to national identity and autonomy for Czechs and Slovaks. His contributions included promoting social reform and advocating for workers' rights within the political framework of the time.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Picchi
An Italian organist and composer. Active in the early 17th century, contributed significantly to the development of organ music. Served as an organist at the Basilica di San Marco in Venice. Composed 'Fiori Musicali', a collection of organ music that gained recognition for its innovative style. The work reflected the Venetian school of music and influenced later composers.
Continue ReadingRené Caillié
Traveled across Africa, reaching Timbuktu in 1827. First European to return from Timbuktu alive, laying the groundwork for future explorers. Published a travelogue detailing the journey, increasing interest in African exploration.
Continue ReadingShin Saimdang
A prominent figure in Korean literature and art during the Joseon Dynasty, this individual excelled in poetry and calligraphy. Renowned for exceptional skills, contributions to Korean culture and education were significant. Writings often reflected themes of nature and familial bonds. The art of calligraphy was masterfully practiced, setting standards for future generations. As a mother and educator, emphasis on instilling traditional values in children was paramount.
Continue Reading