The Greatest Turns 70

Today marks the birthday of one of the greatest – and most colourful/controversial – sports figures ever, Muhammad Ali. Now 70, Ali celebrated his birthday on Saturday in his hometown of Louisville, Ky. Though obviously battling the symptoms of Parkinson’s, the former boxer still looked quite fit, waving to a gathering that serenaded him with “Happy Birthday” and then chanted his name. Former Canadian World Heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis was on hand to honour his idol, not just for his boxing prowess but his accomplishments in life, including fighting for the rights of black people and refusing to fight in Vietnam.”What he’s done outside the ring – just the bravery, the poise, the feeling, the sacrifice … He’s truly a great man,” said Lewis.

-Peter Muggeridge