Merlene Ottey

Track and field athlete with Olympic titles

Merlene Ottey - Track and field athlete with Olympic titles
Born

May 10th, 1960
65 years ago

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Jamaica

Links & References

A highly accomplished track and field athlete, competed primarily in the sprinting events. Achieved notable success in multiple Olympic Games, accumulating nine medals, including bronze and silver in the 100 meters and 200 meters. Also secured several World Championship titles throughout a lengthy career, representing both Jamaica and Slovenia. Transitioned from competing for Jamaica to Slovenia later in career, maintaining a high level of performance into the 2000s. After an extensive career featuring numerous appearances in international competitions, retired from professional athletics, leaving a legacy of excellence in sprinting.

Won nine Olympic medals

Secured multiple World Championship titles

Other People Born on May 10th

Anne-Robert-Jacques Turgot

French economist and politician
Born
May 10th, 1727 298 years ago
Died
1781 244 years ago — 54 years old

An influential economist and politician in France, Turgot served as a controller-general of finances under Louis XVI. Implemented significant economic reforms aimed at modernizing the French economy and reducing state debts. Advocated for free trade, the reduction of government intervention, and the abolition of the guild system, promoting a more liberal economic approach. His tenure was marked by resistance from various factions, leading to his resignation in 1776. Despite the challenges faced during his political career, ideas on economic liberalism shaped future economic policies in France.

Continue Reading

Jim Calhoun

Basketball coach with NCAA Championships
Born
May 10th, 1942 83 years ago

A prominent basketball coach, achieved significant success at the collegiate level. Served as head coach at the University of Connecticut from 1986 to 2012, transforming the program into a national powerhouse. Secured three NCAA Championships with the team in 1999, 2004, and 2009. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005 for contributions to the sport.

Continue Reading

Ryan Getzlaf

Ice hockey player and Stanley Cup champion
Born
May 10th, 1985 40 years ago

Professionally played ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Anaheim Ducks. Served as team captain for multiple seasons. Played a significant role in the team's victory in the 2007 Stanley Cup Final. Represented Canada in international competitions, contributing to gold medal wins at the IIHF World Junior Championships and the World Cup of Hockey.

Continue Reading

Dimitri Tiomkin

Composer noted for film scores
Born
May 10th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1979 45 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Ukraine, a composer and conductor gained prominence in the film industry, particularly during the mid-20th century. Migrating to the United States, collaborated with various directors and created memorable scores that enhanced the cinematic experience. Worked with prominent films including 'High Noon,' which received an Academy Award for Best Original Song, and 'The Fall of the Roman Empire.' Additionally, contributed music to 'Lost Horizon' and 'Friendly Persuasion,' further showcasing talent in film scoring. Tiomkin's work demonstrated a blend of classical influences and contemporary elements, influencing the scoring of future films.

Continue Reading

Arthur Alexander

Country-soul singer-songwriter
Born
May 10th, 1940 85 years ago
Died
1993 32 years ago — 53 years old

An American country-soul singer-songwriter, gained recognition in the 1960s. Helped shape the genre with a distinct blend of country and rhythm and blues. Released several albums, with 'You Better Move On' being the most notable. His music influenced later artists in both country and soul genres, earning a respected place in music history. Continued to perform and record until later in life, contributing to the legacy of American roots music.

Continue Reading

Heydar Aliyev

Azerbaijani politician and president
Born
May 10th, 1923 102 years ago
Died
December 12th, 2003 21 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1923, served as a prominent politician in Azerbaijan. Held various positions, including Chairman of the KGB in the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic and Prime Minister of Azerbaijan. Elected as the third President of Azerbaijan in 1993, serving until 2003. During the presidency, implemented significant economic reforms and pursued a foreign policy aimed at increasing Azerbaijan's global standing. Played a crucial role in establishing the oil contract known as the 'Contract of the Century,' attracting major foreign investment into the energy sector. Established a foundation aimed at promoting education and cultural heritage.

Continue Reading