Wayde van Niekerk

South African sprinter and Olympic champion

Wayde van Niekerk - South African sprinter and Olympic champion
Born

July 15th, 1992
32 years ago

Category

Athletes & Sports Figures

Country

South Africa

Links & References

A prominent sprinter specializing in the 400 meters, achieved international success early in the career. Won the gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics in the 400 meters, setting a new world record of 43.03 seconds, breaking a 17-year-old record. Also claimed gold at the 2015 World Championships and the 2017 World Championships, solidifying status as one of the top competitors in the event.

Gold medalist in 400m at the 2016 Rio Olympics

World record holder in 400m

Other People Born on July 15th

Marius Stankevičius

Footballer with significant club career
Born
July 15th, 1981 43 years ago

A Lithuanian footballer, played primarily as a defender. Career began in 1998 with FK Žalgiris and included stints at several clubs across Europe. Played for teams such as FC Viljandi, FC Mezőkövesd, and Sūduva. Additionally, represented the Lithuanian national team, earning multiple caps since debuting in 2004. Contributed to club and national defensive efforts throughout career, participating in various European competitions.

Continue Reading

Adam Savage

Special effects designer and actor
Born
July 15th, 1967 57 years ago

An actor and special effects designer, recognized for contributions in film and television. Co-hosted the television series MythBusters from 2003 to 2016, where experiments tested urban legends and myths. Worked on films such as Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and The Matrix Reloaded as a model maker and special effects artist. Engaged in educational projects focusing on making and creativity, promoting hands-on skills in children and adults alike.

Continue Reading

Cowboy Copas

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
July 15th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 49 years old

An American singer-songwriter and guitarist, including contributions to the country music genre. Best recognized for a blend of traditional country and honky-tonk styles. Achieved popularity in the 1940s and 1950s with hits that showcased storytelling through music. Copas was part of the Grand Ole Opry, which significantly shaped country music's development. His music often featured themes of love and loss, resonating with audiences across the United States. Copas's career was tragically cut short when he died in a plane crash in 1963.

Continue Reading

Abraham Sutzkever

Russian poet and Yiddish literary figure
Born
July 15th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
2010 15 years ago — 97 years old

Born in 1913, a renowned Yiddish poet and author emerged in the literary scene, contributing significantly to Yiddish literature. An influential figure in the 20th century, his poetry often reflected the experiences of Jewish communities during and after World War II. After surviving the Holocaust, he settled in Palestine and continued to write, reflecting on themes of loss, memory, and identity. Sutzkever received several awards, including the Israel Prize for his literary work. His contributions helped preserve Yiddish culture and literature in modern times.

Continue Reading

Wharton Esherick

American sculptor and furniture designer
Born
July 15th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 83 years old

An American sculptor and furniture designer contributed significantly to the American modernist movement in the 20th century. Originally trained as a painter, transitioned to sculpture and became influential in the development of studio furniture. Established a unique style that merged functional design with artistic expression. The Esherick House, designed by Louis Kahn, reflects the integration of his works and environment.

Continue Reading

Jai Singh I

Maharaja of Jaipur and city founder
Born
July 15th, 1611 413 years ago
Died
1667 358 years ago — 56 years old

Maharaja served as the ruler of Jaipur and played a significant role in its establishment and development. Responsible for the architectural planning of the city, he emphasized the importance of urban design and aesthetics in Indian history. Under his reign, innovations in infrastructure and administration were implemented. His efforts contributed to the cultural and political landscape of Rajasthan during the early 17th century.

Continue Reading