- Breakthrough achievement and third-place award obtained.
Kurt Bendlin, previous decathlon world record holder, has bid farewell. His spouse reported to the German Press Agency that he departed last Thursday in Paderborn. The father of two kids was 81 years old.
Formidable Athlete, Tenacious Champion: Kurt Bendlin's Sizzling Heat Decathlon Record
Previously crowned decathlon champion, Kurt Bendlin turned heads in the summer of 1967 with his sizzling heat decathlon record, leaving an indelible mark in athletics. Yet, the innately talented athlete hailing from the Schleswig-Holstein town of Malente was always particularly euphoric about his Olympic bronze medal.
On May 14, 1967, the chiseled athletic student topped off the sweltering weekend of his sports life with a jaw-dropping decathlon world record. At Heidelberg University Stadium, Bendlin racked up 8,319 points under the scorching heat of 38 degrees Celsius in the shade - the audience erupted in applause for their "Athletic King" during the pinnacle of his career. This stunt, an Olympic bronze in 1968 in Mexico City, four German championship titles, and being named "Athlete of the Year" in 1967 represented his most triumphant achievements.
The Bronze Medal Never Lost Its Radiance
The dazzling radiance of the bronze medal never wavered for the father of Nicola and Kolja. It came by surprise and demanded perseverance: A year post his world record, Bendlin was the top contender for Mexico, despite suffering an injury during prep in Flagstaff, USA, and barely being able to train for six weeks.
14 Operations Throughout His Career
Constrained by cramps, the German thrust himself onto the podium with an extraordinary energy display on the second day. "What I pulled out of myself in the hell of an Olympic decathlon - extraordinary," declared the petite all-rounder. "That was my best performance."
The Marriage - Eventually
The driving forces behind his athletic success were acclaimed coaches Bert Sumser and Friedel Schirmer. But his truest happiness bore but one name: Martina. They had known each other since 1966, yet it wasn't until 1980 - 14 years later - that the couple exchanged vows. "My husband couldn't decide between decathlon, career, and marriage," his partner chuckled on his 65th birthday. "My husband is generous, full of heart, and always willing to help." Martina Bendlin spoke of her husband.
Embracing the Present
The skilled sports instructor provided fitness coaching for fatigued executives in Malente, his hometown. He also coordinated father-and-child programs at the "camp" on the farm in Paderborn and was actively involved in social initiatives, helping those struggling with substance abuse regain their footing. "Never give up! Make the most of every opportunity," was his motto until the very end. "For me, only the moment matters. I live in the present, and I always live as if it were my last day," the restless retiree disclosed his philosophical outlook on turning 75.
Despite his retirement, Kurt Bendlin continued to demonstrate his ten-fighting spirit by helping those in need, particularly individuals battling substance abuse. In later years, he often emphasized, "The decathlon was not just about physical strength; it required tenacious fighting to overcome any challenge, and that's a mindset I apply to life today."
After decades of dedication to athletics and social causes, Kurt Bendlin's ten-fighting spirit remained undiminished until his retirement years, proving that he was not only a formidable athlete but also an enduring champion in the face of life's challenges.
