Nathan Deakes
Australian race walker and Olympian
Competed in race walking events representing Australia. Achieved significant success in international competitions, including the World Championships and the Olympics. Excelled in the 20 km and 50 km race walking events, showcasing endurance and speed. Retired from competitive sports but left a mark in the athletics community for his contributions to race walking.
Won a gold medal at the 2004 World Race Walking Cup
Competed in the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games
Set multiple Australian national records in race walking
Other People Born on August 17th
Nicola Porpora
Italian composer and educator
Born
August 17th, 1686 339 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1768 257 years ago — 81 years old
A prominent figure in 18th-century music, Porpora achieved significant recognition as a composer and vocal teacher. His work includes numerous operas, sacred music, and cantatas, which were influential in the development of Italian opera. Porpora was a key figure in the Neapolitan opera scene and contributed to the education of several renowned singers of the time, including Farinelli. His compositions were noted for their melodic beauty and complex vocal lines, showcasing the capabilities of the singers he trained.
Continue ReadingPatrick Manning
Trinidadian politician, former Prime Minister
Born
August 17th, 1946 79 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2016 9 years ago — 69 years old
Served as the fourth Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago from 1991 to 1995 and again from 2001 to 2010. Held leadership roles in the People's National Movement and contributed to various legislative reforms during time in office. Participated in regional and international politics, advocating for issues affecting the Caribbean.
Continue ReadingMargaret Heafield Hamilton
Computer Scientist and Software Engineer
Born
August 17th, 1936 89 years ago
A computer scientist and systems engineer, contributions to software engineering established standards for development in the field. Worked on the Apollo space program, where developed onboard flight software for the Apollo missions at NASA. Led the team that created the software for the Apollo Lunar Module, critical for landing astronauts on the Moon. Founded a software company that contributed to various projects in the aerospace industry and beyond.
Continue ReadingHarve Bennett
Screenwriter and producer for Star Trek
Born
August 17th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
February 25th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old
Contributed as a writer and producer to multiple Star Trek films and television series. Engaged in the production of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, which became one of the most successful films of the franchise. Involvement with Star Trek III: The Search for Spock and Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home further solidified a prominent role in the development of the franchise. Worked extensively in television and produced shows including The Six Million Dollar Man and The Bionic Woman, both of which gained significant viewership during their runs.
Continue ReadingLalla Carlsen
Norwegian singer and actress
Born
August 17th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1967 58 years ago — 77 years old
Achieved prominence as a singer and actress in Norway during the early 20th century. Carlsen performed in various musical revues and operettas, showcasing a unique vocal style. Contributed to the cultural landscape by participating in popular performances that mixed operatic elements with folk traditions. Carlsen's versatility allowed her to transition between theater and film, establishing a lasting legacy in the Norwegian entertainment scene. Continued to be celebrated posthumously for contributions to music and performing arts.
Continue ReadingF. Ray Keyser Jr.
American politician, Governor of Vermont
Born
August 17th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
March 7th, 2015 10 years ago — 87 years old
Served as Governor of Vermont from 1961 to 1963. Played a role in state politics during the mid-20th century. Participated in various legal practices and contributed to the Democratic Party's efforts in Vermont. Involved in numerous initiatives and programs aimed at improving the state.
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