Kenji Kimihara
Japanese long-distance runner, Olympics
Competed in long-distance running events, particularly the marathon. Achieved significant success at the Tokyo 1964 Olympics, winning the gold medal in the marathon. Kimihara set a national record in the marathon that stood for several years, contributing to Japan's prominence in long-distance running during the period. Transitioned to coaching after retiring from competitive athletics, helping to train future generations of runners.
Won gold in the marathon at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics
Set a national marathon record
Other People Born on March 20th
Yigael Yadin
Israeli archaeologist and Deputy Prime Minister
Born
March 20th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1984 41 years ago — 67 years old
An Israeli archaeologist, general, and politician. Made significant contributions to the field of archaeology, particularly in excavations at Masada and Hazor. Served as Deputy Prime Minister of Israel and was influential in various government roles. Yadin also held a prominent position in the Israeli Defense Forces during the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, where he played a key role in strategic military planning.
Continue ReadingGeorge Altman
American baseball player with the Cubs
Born
March 20th, 1933 92 years ago
A professional baseball player played primarily as an outfielder. Played in Major League Baseball from 1959 to 1968. Spent significant time with the Chicago Cubs and was a member of the 1962 All-Star team. Also played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets during his career.
Continue ReadingDinos Christianopoulos
Greek poet and writer of notable verse
Born
March 20th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 89 years old
Born in 1931, a significant figure in modern Greek poetry. Developed a distinctive style that combined lyrical intensity with themes of love and longing. Many works reflect personal experiences and historical context. Publications include several collections of poetry which garnered attention in both Greece and abroad.
Continue ReadingJerry Reed
Singer-songwriter and actor in country music
Born
March 20th, 1937 88 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2008 17 years ago — 71 years old
A prominent figure in country music and film, this artist gained recognition for distinctive guitar playing and songwriting skills. Initiated a music career in the 1950s, producing hit songs such as 'When You're Hot, You're Hot' and 'East Bound and Down', the theme song for the movie 'Smokey and the Bandit'. Also acted alongside Burt Reynolds in that film and contributed to its soundtrack. Throughout the career, collaborated with other notable musicians and received several awards for contributions to the genre, including induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Continue ReadingGerard Malanga
Poet and photographer, minimalism advocate
Born
March 20th, 1943 82 years ago
Born in 1943, the individual became a significant figure in the artistic community, engaging deeply with poetry and photography. In the 1960s, contributions to the New York School of poets led to collaborations with Andy Warhol, leading to work on various film projects, including 'Chelsea Girls'. This partnership enhanced the visibility of experimental literature and photography. The artistic output often reflected themes of minimalism and personal introspection. Later works included extensive photographic series capturing urban landscapes and life in New York City, asserting a keen observational lens.
Continue ReadingJerome Biffle
American long jumper and coach
Born
March 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 74 years old
Biffle competed in long jump, representing the United States. Achieved notable success in his athletic career during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Also served as a coach, influencing the development of future long jump athletes through training and mentorship. His contributions to the sport extended beyond personal competition, as he dedicated time to coaching at various levels.
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