What Happened This Year 1981

Born in 1981

Leon Bott

Rugby league player notable for achievements
Born
October 19th, 1981 43 years ago

Began professional rugby league career in 2000, primarily playing as a winger. Spent significant time with the Sydney Roosters in the NRL and later joined the Canterbury Bulldogs. Achieved a premiership victory with the Sydney Roosters in 2002. Transitioned into the New South Wales Cup after his NRL career, continuing to contribute to the sport before retiring.

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Heikki Kovalainen

Race car driver with Formula One achievements
Born
October 19th, 1981 43 years ago

Born in Finland, a professional race car driver achieved prominence in Formula One racing. Started a racing career in karting before progressing to single-seater championships. Competed in Formula One from 2007 to 2013, driving for teams such as Renault, McLaren, and Caterham. Achieved a career-best finish of 6th place in the 2008 season. Also participated in various endurance racing events post-Formula One, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

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Dimitris Papadopoulos

Greek footballer, played for PAOK
Born
October 20th, 1981 43 years ago

Born in Greece, career commenced with PAOK, where developed as a forward. Played for several clubs in Greece and abroad. Contributed to the national team with multiple appearances during international competitions. Had significant spells at clubs like AEK Athens and Aris Thessaloniki, showcasing notable performances. Retired from professional football after a distinguished career spanning over a decade.

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Francisco Javier Rodríguez

Mexican footballer and World Cup participant
Born
October 20th, 1981 43 years ago

A professional footballer from Mexico played as a defender. Career began in 1998 with Atlas, where several seasons were spent before moving to clubs like Morelia, and Club América. Achieved recognition for participation in the national team across multiple tournaments, including the 2010, 2014, and 2018 FIFA World Cups. Additionally competed in several CONCACAF Gold Cups, contributing to the team's overall performance.

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Olivier Pla

Racing driver and Le Mans participant
Born
October 21st, 1981 43 years ago

Born in 1981, this French racing driver competed in various prestigious motor racing events. Participation in the 24 Hours of Le Mans with teams such as ORECA and Nissan marked significant moments in the career. Additionally, involvement in the FIA World Endurance Championship highlighted skills in endurance racing and team collaboration. Achievements in single-seater racing include competing in the Formula Renault series and the European Formula 3000.

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Nemanja Vidić

Footballer; Manchester United Defender
Born
October 21st, 1981 43 years ago

Career spanned from 2003 to 2016, primarily with Manchester United. Joined Manchester United in 2006, becoming a central figure in the team's defense. Won five Premier League titles, three League Cups, and the UEFA Champions League in 2008. Known for strong tackling and aerial ability, contributed to Manchester United's success during his tenure. Also represented the national team of Serbia, earning over 50 caps.

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Martin Castrogiovanni

Rugby player, Rugby World Cup participant
Born
October 21st, 1981 43 years ago

Born in Argentina, a professional rugby player with a significant career in international rugby, representing Italy. Played as a prop and earned over 100 caps for Italy, participating in three Rugby World Cups from 2003 to 2015. Developed a reputation in club rugby with stints at notable teams including Leicester Tigers in England, where he won multiple championships. Castrogiovanni's contributions on the field were characterized by formidable scrummaging skills and athleticism.

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Ben Francisco

Baseball outfielder with notable seasons
Born
October 23rd, 1981 43 years ago

Played Major League Baseball primarily as an outfielder from 2006 to 2013. Debuted with the Philadelphia Phillies, contributing to their World Series championship in 2008. Played for other teams, including the Cleveland Indians and the Toronto Blue Jays. Contributed to multiple playoff appearances during his career, showcasing versatility in both hitting and fielding.

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Lee Ki-woo

South Korean actor in film and television
Born
October 23rd, 1981 43 years ago

Born in South Korea in 1981, established a career in acting spanning over a decade. Gained recognition for roles in various television dramas and films. Gained fame through participation in popular series and projects, contributing to the country's entertainment landscape.

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