Births on February 29

Raisa Smetanina

Born on February 29, 1952

Raisa Smetanina, Russian cross-country skier

Raisa Petrovna Smetanina (Russian: Раиса Петровна Сметанина), born on February 29, 1952, is an iconic figure in the world of cross-country skiing, celebrated as both a Soviet and Russian champion. This remarkable athlete etched her name into the annals of sports history with an unparalleled achievement, becoming the very first woman ever to amass an incredible ten medals at the Winter Olympic Games, a testament to her enduring skill, remarkable perseverance, and legendary career on the international stage.

References

Raisa Smetanina

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Events on 1952

2 May

De Havilland Comet
The world's first ever jet airliner, the De Havilland Comet 1 makes its maiden flight, from London to Johannesburg.
3 Jul

RMS Queen Mary
The SS United States sets sail on her maiden voyage to Southampton. During the voyage, the ship takes the Blue Riband away from the RMS Queen Mary.
7 Jul

SS United States
The ocean liner SS United States passes Bishop Rock on her maiden voyage, breaking the transatlantic speed record to become the fastest passenger ship in the world.
15 Sep

Eritrea
The United Nations cedes Eritrea to Ethiopia.
20 Oct

Mau Mau Uprising
Governor Evelyn Baring declares a state of emergency in Kenya and begins arresting hundreds of suspected leaders of the Mau Mau Uprising, including Jomo Kenyatta, the future first President of Kenya.

Births on February 29

Raisa Smetanina

Born on February 29, 1952

References

Choose Another Date

Events on 1952

De Havilland Comet

RMS Queen Mary

SS United States

Eritrea

Mau Mau Uprising