Germany DR (1949-89)Biography
Olympic champion, former world record holder in pole vault. He ranked number two in world list 1965, then took European title in Budapest. He was a member of first seperate GDR team at the Olympics in Mexico City, where he took bronze by attempt despite setting Olympic record (5.40) with other medallists. But he managed to took gold in Munich by beating defending champion Bob Seagren.
He was leading European pole vaulter in his era, taking seven European titles (including couple of unofficial indoor), also became Universiade champion prior to Munich Olympics. He was GDR national champion for eight consecutive years (1965-72), also has seven indoor win at National Champs.
He broke world record in two occasions, both in 1970. First, came on June 17 in Berlin (5.45) and second was in Turin (5.46) during Universiade. After his Olympic glory in Munich, decided to retire from sport.
PERSONAL BESTS
Pole vault: 5.50m in Munich 1972
Pole vault indoor: 5.40 in Grenoble 1972
TRIVIA
♦ Studied physics, has a doctorate degree in economics.
♦ He worked in Berlin in a travel company.
♦ Named GDR Sportsman of the Year in 1972.
♦ Alleged to used anabolid steroid in some GDR state security documents later revealed.
♦ Club: SC Motor Jena in whole career (1957-72)