Lasse Virén

Finnish long-distance runner

Lasse Virén - Finnish long-distance runner
Born

July 22nd, 1949
75 years ago

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Finland

Links & References

A long-distance runner who competed in the 5000 meters and 10,000 meters events. Achieved international acclaim during the 1972 and 1976 Olympic Games, winning four gold medals in total. Established a remarkable record in both the 5000m and 10,000m, demonstrating exceptional speed and endurance. Actively involved in local sports and worked as a police officer in Finland.

Won gold medals in 5000m and 10,000m at the 1972 and 1976 Olympics

Set multiple world records during competitive career

Other People Born on July 22nd

Alex Trebek

Game show host of Jeopardy!
Born
July 22nd, 1940 84 years ago
Died
November 8th, 2020 4 years ago — 80 years old

A game show host and producer, he became a prominent television personality through the long-running quiz show 'Jeopardy!', which debuted in 1964. He hosted 'Jeopardy!' from 1984 until his passing in 2020, guiding contestants in their pursuit of trivia knowledge. Trebek was awarded multiple Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Game Show Host and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of his television career. His experience in broadcasting also included hosting and producing various other shows before and during his time on 'Jeopardy!'. Trebek helped popularize quiz shows in America and became synonymous with the format.

Continue Reading

Takudzwa Ngwenya

Rugby player with international recognition
Born
July 22nd, 1985 39 years ago

Born in Zimbabwe and later relocating to the United States, engaged in rugby union as a winger. Played a key role for the United States national rugby team. Competed in the 2007 Rugby World Cup, representing the U.S. on an international platform. Had significant stints with professional clubs, contributing to their success in domestic leagues and tournaments.

Continue Reading

Alvin Robertson

Basketball player, NBA All-Star
Born
July 22nd, 1962 62 years ago

A professional basketball player, debuted in the NBA in 1984. Played for teams including the San Antonio Spurs, Detroit Pistons, and Toronto Raptors. Notable for defensive skills and playmaking ability. Selected as an NBA All-Star in 1991. His career included strong performances in the playoffs, showcasing significant contributions to his teams. Retired in 1999 after a successful career.

Continue Reading

Dries Devenyns

Belgian professional cyclist, Tour de France
Born
July 22nd, 1983 41 years ago

A professional cyclist specializing in road cycling, participated in several Grand Tours. Achieved notable results in one-day races and led teams in national and international competitions. Competed for various teams throughout the career, contributing to team successes in prestigious events. Known for strong performances in the Tour de France and other major cycling events.

Continue Reading

Aldo de Nigris

Mexican footballer and international player
Born
July 22nd, 1983 41 years ago

A professional footballer from Mexico, played as a forward. Began his career with Monterrey and had significant stints in various leagues. Contributed to the success of Club Deportivo Monterrey, winning multiple Liga MX titles. Additionally represented Mexico in international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup and CONCACAF Gold Cup.

Continue Reading

Licia Albanese

Soprano and actress with operatic acclaim
Born
July 22nd, 1909 115 years ago
Died
August 15th, 2014 10 years ago — 105 years old

Born in Italy, a prominent soprano achieved acclaim in opera and concert settings. Studied at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan. Debuted at the Metropolitan Opera in 1940 and established a long and successful career, performing roles such as Mimi in "La Bohème" and Liu in "Turandot." Performed alongside renowned artists and participated in various orchestral performances. Also held a notable acting career in film and television. Advocated for the arts and contributed to educational efforts within vocal performance.

Continue Reading