Veteran record-breaker Kurt Bendlin has passed away.
Legendary decathlete Kurt Bendlin has passed away. His spouse confirmed that the 1968 Olympic bronze medalist passed away last Thursday in Paderborn. At the age of 81, the father of two had achieved some remarkable feats. His outstanding heat world record in 1967 put him in the spotlight of athletics. Despite his love for nature, Bendlin was particularly proud of his bronze medal from the Mexico City Olympics.
The iconic weekend of May 14, 1967, marked the pinnacle of Bendlin's career. With 8319 points in a sweltering 38 degrees, he broke the decathlon world record in Heidelberg's university stadium. His stunning performance, along with the bronze medal, four German titles, and the title of "Sportsman of the Year" in 1967, are considered his greatest accomplishments.
A Battleground of 14 Operations
The bronze medal held a special radiance for Bendlin, father of daughter Nicola and son Kolja. This achievement came as a surprise and a testament to his determination: Despite his world record, he injured himself during preparation in the US, which forced him to train just six weeks before the Mexico City Olympics.
Crippled by cramps, Bendlin secured his place on the podium with an astonishing performance on the second day. "What I managed in the fiery cauldron of the Olympic decathlon was incredible," said the diminutive all-rounder. "That was my best performance."
During his career from 1962 to 1976, Bendlin underwent a total of 14 surgeries. "My strength surpassed the resilience of my bones and joints," he once admitted.
Parentage in West Prussia
Bendlin's sporting success can be credited to legendary coaches Bert Sumser and Friedel Schirmer. However, his greatest blessing had only one name: Martina. They met in 1966, and it wasn't until 1980 that they tied the knot - 14 years later. "My husband couldn't make up his mind: He couldn't choose between decathlon, career, and marriage," said his wife. "My husband had a big heart, he was loving, always helpful, and generous," Martina Bendlin said on her husband's 65th birthday.
Born on May 22, 1943, in the West Prussian Thorn, and raised in Malente, the resilient retiree spent his later years organizing fitness courses for tired executives in Malente. His mother and brother fled to Malente with a two-year-old Kurt during wartime, as his father perished in captivity.
The 'father-and-child' classes in his farmhouse in Paderborn were popular as well. Besides that, "Kuddel" Bendlin dedicated himself to social projects, helping alcohol and drug-addicted individuals reintegrate into society. "Never give up! Make the most of it," was his mantra, which he lived by until his very end. "Only the present moment is important to me. I live in the now and in every moment as if it were my last."
Despite his numerous surgeries, Kurt Bendlin's athletic achievements were impressive, with his bronze medal in the 1968 Olympics being a particular highlight in his decathlon career. His outstanding performance in the decathlon event earned him widespread recognition and accolades in the world of athletics.
Kurt Bendlin's athletic career was marked by resilience and determination, showcased not only in his world record-breaking performance but also in his ability to overcome injuries and continue competing at the highest level in athletics.
