This week in Olympic sports history: 12-18 February, Eddie 'the Eagle' Olympic legacy
Olympics.com looks at the week in Olympic sports history, picking out some Olympian birthdays and notable sporting events for the week of 12-18 February.
Basketball
Welcome back to "This Week in Olympic Sports History," where Olympics.com analyses the most memorable moments in Olympic sports and honours the birthdays of some of the greatest Olympians ever.
This week, we're marking the birth of one of our time's most iconic and influential sports personalities: Michael Jordan. The U.S. basketball legend and two-time Olympic gold medalist, was born on 17 Februrary 1963.
We're also celebrating the birthday of Angel Di Maria, the Argentine World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist. And how about the story of GB ski jumper Eddie 'the Eagle' Edwards, who was first introduced to the world during the Cagliari 1988 Winter Olympics?.
So, let's honour these amazing athletes and reflect on some of the most remarkable events and Olympic champions born this week.
Notable Olympic birthdays, 12-18 February
- Owen Nolan (Canada, Ice Hockey, Olympic Champion), born 12 February 1972
- Meghan Agosta-Marciano (Canada, Ice Hockey, Three-time Olympic Champion), born 12 February 1987
- Rafael Alcántara (Brazil, Football, Olympic Champion), born 12 February 1993
- Sulo Nurmela (Finland, Cross Country Ski, Olympic Champion), born 13 February 1908
- Leamon King (USA, Athletics, Olympic Champion), born 13 February 1936
- Kenny Harrison (USA, Athletics, Olympic Champion), born 13 February 1965
- Kara Lawson (USA, Basketball, Olympic Champion), born 14 February 1981
- Ángel Di María (Argentina, Football, Olympic Champion), born 14 February 1988
- Cathy Freeman (Australia, Athletics, Olympic Champion), born 16 February 1973
- Trina Jackson (USA, Swimming, Olympic Champion), born 16 February 1977
- Willi Holdorf (Germany, Athletics, Olympic Champion), born 17 February 1940
- Heidi Biebl (Germany, Alpine ski, Olympic Champion), born 17 February 1941
- Karin Büttner-Janz (Germany, Artistic Gymnastics, Two-time Olympic Champion), born 17 February 1952
- Ambrose Gaines (USA, Swimming, Three-time Olympic Champion), born 17 February 1959
- Michael Jordan (USA, Basketball, Olympic Champion), born 17 February 1963
- David Douillet (France, Judo, Two-Time Olympic Champion), born 17 February 1969
- Marita Koch (Germany, Athletics, Olympic Champion), born 18 February 1957
- Scott Tucker (USA, Swimming, Olympic Champion), born 18 February 1975
- Vasiliy Lomachenko (Ukraine, Boxing, Two-Time Olympic Champion), 17 February 1988
On This Day: 14 February 1988 - Eddie 'the Eagle' Edwards becomes an icon
February 14, 1988, Michael Edwards, later known as 'Eddie The Eagle', captured the hearts of millions around the globe by becoming the first competitor to represent Great Britain in Olympic ski jumping at Calgary 1988.
The Brit took part in the Normal Hill competition, finishing in last position far behind the rest of the field. A few days later, he competed in the Large Hill event, again coming in last. But it wasn't the result that made his story extraordinary.
A Cinderella story
Eddie's story was about the man behind the skis. His Olympic dream was more than a quest for medals; it was a journey that captured the global imagination.
Sporting his trademark thick glasses that would steam up under ski goggles in high altitude, the jumper became an instant fan favourite. His infectious good nature and unwavering commitment earned him more media attention than some gold medallists got during their competition.
"At these Games, some competitors have won gold, some have broken records, and some of you have even soared like an eagle," declared Frank King, President of the Organising Committee, in a nod to the budding star's indomitable spirit, during the Closing Ceremony.
In 2015, the British star story gained even more recognition. A movie was made about his journey, with actor Taron Egerton portraying Eddie and Hollywood stars Hugh Jackman and Christopher Walken also part of the cast.
Quote of the week - Michael Jordan
"I've missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I've been trusted to take the game-winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed."
Michael Jordan, born on February 17, 1963, is an iconic figure who has inspired and motivated people in sports and beyond. Known for his larger-than-life personality and an insatiable drive for success, the American star's impact extends beyond the numerous NBA titles he claimed with the Chicago Bulls. 'The Last Dance' documentary, which provided an intimate look at his career, brought to light the essence of his competitive spirit. The now-infamous line, "And I took that personally," is another mark that encapsulates his relentless pursuit of excellence, transforming challenges into opportunities for triumph.
Don't forget to check back on Olympics.com next week for more sports and Olympic history.