Ron Clarke
Australian runner and Gold Coast Mayor
Born
February 21st, 1937
88 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2015
9 years ago — 78 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
Australia
Links & References
Achieved prominence as a middle-distance runner, competing in the 1960, 1964, and 1968 Olympics. Set multiple world records during the 1960s, particularly excelling in the 5000 meters. Transitioned to a career in politics, serving as the Mayor of the Gold Coast from 2004 to 2012. His tenure focused on promoting the region's development and community engagement.
Set world records in middle-distance running
Competed in three Olympic Games
Served as Mayor of Gold Coast
Other People Born on February 21st
William Baldwin
Born in 1963, gained prominence in the entertainment industry through several films and television shows. Gained recognition for roles in films and series during the late 1980s and 1990s. Appeared in the movie 'Backdraft' as firefighter Stephen 'Bull' McCaffrey, which highlighted the dangers of firefighting. Also portrayed important roles in 'The Squid and the Whale' and 'Silver'. Beyond film, engaged in philanthropic efforts and founded the charitable organization, The Baldwin Foundation, which focuses on various social issues.
Continue ReadingMaurice Bembridge
Born in 1945, this golfer became a prominent figure in professional golf during the late 20th century. Achievements in the sport included multiple tournament victories, with notable performances in European Tour events. Success in the 1970 Open Championship, where a strong finish placed within the top ranks, highlighted a competitive career. The golfer also represented England in international competitions, contributing to the country's presence in the sport. A legacy in golf was established through consistent participation in prestigious tournaments and demonstrating skill across various courses.
Continue ReadingScott Kelly
Served as a NASA astronaut with notable missions aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Completed a record-setting 340 consecutive days in space during the One-Year Mission, which provided valuable research on the effects of long-duration spaceflight on the human body. Worked on multiple space shuttle missions and contributed to the assembly and maintenance of the ISS. Is a retired U.S. Navy captain and has flown on four spaceflights, accumulating over 520 total days in space throughout an illustrious career.
Continue ReadingSam Peckinpah
Director and screenwriter contributed significantly to the Western genre with a distinctive style characterized by slow motion and violent imagery. Directed several influential films, including 'The Wild Bunch,' which garnered critical acclaim for its portrayal of anti-heroes and moral ambiguity. Also directed 'Straw Dogs,' notable for its controversial themes and intense violence. Began as a television director before moving to feature films, influencing generations of filmmakers with innovative techniques and storytelling.
Continue ReadingDonté Greene
Played college basketball at Syracuse University, where he was a key player during the 2007-2008 season. Entered the NBA Draft in 2008 and was selected in the second round by the Memphis Grizzlies. Played for the Sacramento Kings, contributing to the team's performance over multiple seasons. Later signed with the New Orleans Pelicans and had additional stints with various teams in the NBA and overseas.
Continue ReadingSacha Guitry
Born in 1885, a prominent actor, director, and playwright emerged from the Russian-French cultural milieu. Achievements included writing numerous successful plays that blended wit and complex characters, reflecting the intricacies of human relationships. Directed and starred in films, contributing to the evolution of French cinema during the early 20th century. Notable works include the play 'Don Juan' and films such as 'The Story of a Cheat.' His influence extended to the theatrical styles of the time, integrating innovative techniques that shaped the French stage.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on June 17th
Martín Miguel de Güemes
Served as a general in the Argentine War of Independence and as a prominent regional leader in northern Argentina. Led military campaigns against Spanish forces, utilizing guerrilla tactics to influence the course of the war. Held the position of governor of Salta Province several times, implementing policies to support local autonomy. His strategies and leadership played a crucial role in sustaining the independence movement in the region during the early 19th century.
Continue ReadingJulius Seljamaa
Born in 1883, held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia. Played a significant role in Estonia's diplomatic efforts during the early 20th century. Contributed to the establishment of foreign relations for the newly independent state following World War I. Worked as a journalist, advocating for Estonia's interests on various platforms.
Continue ReadingJohn III Sobieski
Born in 1629, ascended to the throne of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1674. Led the Christian coalition during the Battle of Vienna in 1683, successfully defending Europe against the Ottoman Empire. His leadership during this decisive battle earned him recognition as a key figure in European history. Engaged in numerous military campaigns to secure and expand the territories of the Commonwealth. Oversaw a period of significant military and diplomatic activities aimed at strengthening Poland's position in Europe until his death in 1696.
Continue ReadingMohammad Khan Qajar
Founded the Qajar dynasty in Persia, establishing a significant political and cultural era from 1789 until his assassination in 1797. United various tribes and established control over Persian territories, solidifying power through strategic marriages and alliances. Implemented reforms to strengthen central authority and promote trade. His leadership marked the transition from the Safavid Empire to the modern state of Iran.
Continue ReadingClementa C. Pinckney
Served as a minister and state senator in South Carolina, focusing on social issues and community development. Played a pivotal role in the history of the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church and was a significant voice in the political landscape. Advocated for education, healthcare, and civil rights. Tragically, lost life during the Charleston church shooting in 2015, which drew national attention to gun violence and racial tensions in America.
Continue ReadingTachibana no Kachiko
Ascended to power in the Heian period and served as an influential figure in the imperial court. Held the position of empress consort, contributing to the cultural and political landscape of the era. The reign saw the establishment of the first documented poetry contest. Involved in the educational endeavors of the imperial family, promoting literature and the arts. After her death, her contributions were recognized in historical records as significant to early Japanese court history.
Continue Reading