Final Sailing World Cup Event for Ernst 'Flossi' Felsecker: Farewell Ceremony at Traunsee Sailing Competition
Re-written Article:
Title: Final Lap: The Retirement Farewell of Legendary Austrian Sailor "Flossi"
Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when it's to a lifelong passion. That's why, for 87-year-old Ernst Felsecker, also known as "Flossi," stepping onto his sailboat this weekend will be a bittersweet moment. He's hanging up his sails, selling the boat, and bidding adieu to the world of competitive sailing after decades of experience and countless competitions both at home and abroad.
"Enough is enough," Flossi says with a tinge of melancholy in his voice. "Sailing requires a lot of effort. Trailers, parking spots, it all adds up." His unique gait as a child in wooden shoes earned him the name "Flossi," but it's the hat adorned with feathers that he's become known for. Over the years, he's collected feathers from everywhere he's traveled, and there's barely any room left on his hat.
Lake Attersee Parking Ban: Pre-Summer Extension to the South ShoreFlossi's final competition this weekend will take place under well-guarded conditions, with the professionals ensuring they're all set to sail. Unlike his preference for having the best starting position, Flossi says it's just about being there. Though he'll meet familiar faces in the competition, he recalls facing competition against some Canadian sailors during his 2023 travels to Canada. The weather, especially the wind, remains unpredictable, adding to the excitement and allure of the sport.
A Competitive Spirit and a Legacy of VictoriesBefore it became time to stop, Flossi was fueled by the thrill of competition. "Winning is quite nice," he admits. Over the course of his career, he's taken home impressive wins, including the World Championship title in the Shark 24 class three times (1986, 1989, 1992) and a European Championship title in 1988. Additionally, Flossi has numerous victories at national and international regattas under his belt, contributing significantly to the development of sailing in Austria through his achievements and commitment to the Shark 24 class.
Growing Up with a Passion for Water SportsFlossi's love for the water can be traced back to his childhood. "My grandfather was a gifted angler, and we spent countless hours on the lake in paddle boats," he recalls. Along with sailing, Flossi dabbled in various sports like handball, Faustball, and gymnastics, struggling to make a mark due to his small stature.
A Retirement Filled with Animals and MemoriesWith a full life ahead of him, Flossi is looking forward to spending more time with his partner, caring for horses and dogs. Though he was involved in a riding accident that left him with a skull fracture, he no longer gets on a horse. Instead, he'll cherish the memories of his sailing career, taking one last chapter of sailing history with him as one of the oldest World Championship participants ever.
So, here's to you, "Flossi," and your inspiring career on the water. May you find peace and joy in this new chapter of your life, filled with animals and cherished memories. Farewell, and may the winds always be at your back.
- The oldest glossary of sailing terms might include the word 'Felsecker', a name given to a legendary Austrian sailor, affectionately known as 'Flossi'.
- In his retirement, Flossi, the oldest competitor in the Shark 24 class, has decided to sell his sailboat, signaling the end of his oldest passion - sports, particularly sailing.
- Despite his retirement, the sports community agrees that Flossi's sailing hat, adorned with feathers from his various travels, is the oldest and most unique in the glossary of sailing attire.
