Patrick Ortlieb

Ski racer, Olympic gold medalist

Patrick Ortlieb - Ski racer, Olympic gold medalist
Born

May 17th, 1967
58 years ago

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Austria

Links & References

Born in Austria, competed in alpine skiing. Achieved significant success in the 1990s, excelling in downhill events. Won the gold medal in the downhill at the 1992 Winter Olympics held in Albertville, marking a career highlight. Also secured multiple top finishes in World Cup events and was a prominent figure in the international skiing circuit during his competitive years.

Gold medalist in downhill at the 1992 Winter Olympics

Multiple top finishes in FIS World Cup events

Other People Born on May 17th

Alan Johnson

English politician and Shadow Chancellor
Born
May 17th, 1950 75 years ago

Born in 1950, a prominent English politician served in various government positions including Secretary of State for Education and Skills. Held the role of Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, providing oversight of the UK's economic policies while in opposition. Active in the Labour Party and was a Member of Parliament for over a decade. Involved in numerous campaigns and initiatives concerning education, health, and public services throughout a significant political career.

Continue Reading

Johnny Warren

Footballer, coach, and sportscaster
Born
May 17th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2004 20 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent figure in Australian football, contributed significantly to the sport as both a player and coach. Played for the national team and was instrumental in promoting football in Australia. Transitioned into coaching and sportscasting, providing insights and analysis that shaped public understanding of the game. His commitment to the sport led to the establishment of football as a respected discipline in Australia, fostering a new generation of players and fans.

Continue Reading

Henri Barbusse

French author and journalist, 'Le Feu'
Born
May 17th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1935 89 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1873, an author and journalist wrote significant works exploring the experiences of soldiers during World War I. 'Le Feu' (Under Fire) depicted the brutal realities of trench warfare, highlighting the struggles faced by soldiers. Barbusse's writing emphasized the importance of human experience amidst the horrors of war. In addition to fiction, contributed to various publications with essays and articles. Incorporated themes of anti-war sentiment and critique of militarism throughout the career.

Continue Reading

Fredrik Kessiakoff

Swedish Cyclist; Giro d'Italia 2012 participant
Born
May 17th, 1980 45 years ago

A professional road cyclist specialized in stage racing. Competed in various prestigious races, including the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France. Achieved notable success in stage races throughout the career, demonstrating strong capabilities in both climbing and time trials. Represented teams in the UCI World Tour, showcasing competitive skills over multiple seasons.

Continue Reading

Martin Kukučín

Slovak author and playwright
Born
May 17th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
1928 97 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1860, this individual became a significant figure in Slovak literature, particularly recognized for contributions to prose and drama. The author studied medicine before fully immersing in writing. Influenced by both Slovak folklore and contemporary European literary movements, his works often depicted rural life and challenges faced by common people. This literary figure spent a portion of life in the United States, where he encountered various experiences that shaped his writing. The author's most acclaimed works include novels that portray the Slovak landscape and cultural heritage. His legacy in Slovak literature remains prominent.

Continue Reading

Marshall Applewhite

Cult leader and founder of Heaven's Gate
Born
May 17th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1997 28 years ago — 66 years old

A cult leader founded the religious group Heaven's Gate in the 1970s. The group combined elements of Christian theology with beliefs in extraterrestrial life. Applewhite led followers in embracing a belief system that proposed spiritual ascension and the possibility of physical transformation into non-human beings. In 1997, the group gained notoriety when 39 members died in a mass suicide in California, believing they would transition to an extraterrestrial spacecraft following the Hale-Bopp comet.

Continue Reading