Mourning the Departure: LAG Saarbrücken Expresses Grief over the Passing of Hans Knauf
Veteran Runner Hans Knauf's Remarkable Career Honoured
In the world of running, the name Hans Knauf is synonymous with dedication, discipline, and a joy for life that has inspired generations. Knauf, a long-standing member of the Saarbrücken Athletics Club, passed away on 10th July 2025 at the age of 91.
Knauf's running career spanned over three decades, with over 300 recorded participations on laufdaten.de, from the Westspangenlauf in 1990 to the Saarbrücken City Run in May 2019. He joined the Saarbrücken Athletics Club in an unspecified year, initially unattached and later representing the Alpine Club.
Knauf's achievements in the sport are numerous. He won twelve Saarland championship titles on road, track, and cross-country, with his last title coming in 2013, over 10km, at the age of over 80. In the M65 age category, he ran 10km in 45 minutes and the half marathon in 1:42 hours.
One of his most notable records is the current SLB record in the M80 age category for the half marathon, which he set in 2014 with a time of 2:21:02 hours. This record time remains unbeaten and is likely to remain so for some time.
Dirk Eichler-Ubel, chairman of LAG Saarbrücken, said of Knauf, "He was a role model of discipline, joy of life, and sporting dedication. He inspired generations of runners through his daily actions." LAG Saarbrücken has expressed their thoughts to Knauf's family and will keep his memory alive.
Before his running career, Knauf was a mountaineer. His passion, modesty, and perseverance were evident in both his mountain climbing and running pursuits. He will be remembered not only for his exceptional athletic achievements but also for the impact he had on those around him.
In remembrance of Hans Knauf, his legacy as a dedicated athlete and inspiring individual will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the records he left behind.
Despite his successful career in running, paralleling his passion for mountaineering, Hans Knauf's lifetime achievements extend to the realm of football. His love for sports was evident as he represented several local football clubs before focusing on running.
In the wake of his passing, football enthusiasts reminisce about his impact on the field, further highlighting the multifaceted accomplishments of this remarkable figure.
