Legendary Ski Jumper Horst Queck Passes Away at 81
Horst Queck, a legendary ski jumper and former Vierschanzentournee winner, has sadly passed away at the age of 81. Known for his impressive achievements in the sport, Queck left a lasting impact on the world of ski jumping.
Queck's career was marked by numerous triumphs. In 1969, he became DDR champion on the large hill, and the following year, he won both the normal and large hill titles. His most remarkable feat, however, was winning the prestigious Vierschanzentournee in the winter of 1969/70 without winning a single event. He secured the overall victory with a 2.8-point lead over Norwegian Bjørn Wirkola.
In Innsbruck, Queck set a hill record of 99.0 meters in 1970, which stood for five years. This impressive jump showcased his exceptional skill and athleticism. Unfortunately, Queck's career was cut short by a severe injury. In Oberstdorf, while ski flying, he suffered a broken fourth cervical vertebra, ending his competitive career.
After retiring from sports, Queck continued to be involved in the ski jumping community. Although the name of his assistant coach is not known, his impact on Queck's career was undeniable. Horst Queck's legacy as a ski jumping pioneer will continue to inspire future generations of athletes.
