Rik Van Looy

Cyclist and Paris-Roubaix winner

Rik Van Looy - Cyclist and Paris-Roubaix winner
Born

December 20th, 1933
91 years ago

Died

2024
1 years ago — 91 years old

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

Belgium

Links & References

A prominent cyclist from Belgium, he achieved significant success in the sport during the mid-20th century. Competing in various road races, he won multiple championships and was particularly successful in one-day classics. Van Looy earned the nickname 'The Emperor of the Classics' due to his prowess in these races. His career included participation in the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia, where he showcased his abilities as a formidable competitor. Van Looy's victories contributed to the prominence of Belgian cycling on the world stage.

Winning the Paris-Roubaix in 1961

Securing three World Road Race Championships in 1958, 1959, and 1960

Claiming a record number of victories in major one-day races

Other People Born on December 20th

Erik Almlöf

Swedish triple jumper and Olympian
Born
December 20th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 80 years old

Competed in athletics specializing in the triple jump. Participated in the 1912 Summer Olympics held in Stockholm, representing Sweden. Demonstrated significant skill in the sport during competitions in the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Konstantinos Dovas

Greek general and Prime Minister
Born
December 20th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 156th Prime Minister of Greece during a challenging period in the country's history. Held significant military positions and contributed to the military strategies of Greece in various conflicts. Actively engaged in political affairs and was involved in initiatives related to governance and military reforms. His leadership occurred during a time of political instability and conflict.

Continue Reading

Ivana Kobilca

Slovenian painter recognized for genre art
Born
December 20th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1926 98 years ago — 64 years old

Birth occurred in Slovenia in 1861. Kobilca studied at various art academies in Munich and Paris, where influences included prominent art movements. Specializing in genre painting, she captured everyday life and the female experience, becoming a significant figure in the Slovene art scene. Kobilca's work contributed to the national art identity, particularly through themes inspired by her surroundings and social dynamics. Her most recognized pieces display an adept use of color and light, reflecting both technical skill and emotional depth. Throughout her career, Kobilca exhibited works widely in exhibitions, establishing a legacy that continues to inspire contemporary artists.

Continue Reading

Henry Kimball Hadley

American composer and conductor
Born
December 20th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1871, Kimball Hadley was an American composer and conductor who contributed significantly to the world of classical music. He studied at the National Conservatory of Music and made a name for himself as a conductor. Hadley composed numerous works, including symphonies and operas, with a blend of romantic and modern elements. He served as the conductor of several orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic and Metropolitan Opera. His works were performed by prominent orchestras across the United States. The composer also held a position as the conductor of the San Francisco Symphony.

Continue Reading

JoJo

American singer and actress with hit songs
Born
December 20th, 1990 34 years ago

Born in 1990, a singer and actress achieved fame with the successful single "Leave (Get Out)" from the self-titled debut album released in 2004. The album debuted at number four on the Billboard 200 chart. In 2016, released the album "Mad Love" which included popular tracks like "F*** Apologies": The artist also played significant roles in acting, including appearing in the television series "The Bachelorette" and starred in the movie "Aquamarine". These accomplishments solidified a presence in both music and film.

Continue Reading

Fabian Schär

Swiss footballer and national team player
Born
December 20th, 1991 33 years ago

A Swiss professional footballer, played as a center-back. Started career at FC Wil before moving to FC Basel, winning multiple Super League titles. Later played for Newcastle United in the Premier League. Represented Switzerland in international competitions, including the UEFA European Championship and FIFA World Cup.

Continue Reading