Luise Krüger, German javelin thrower (d. 2001)
Luise Krüger, born on January 11, 1915, and passing away on June 13, 2001, was a distinguished German track and field athlete renowned primarily for her exceptional prowess in the javelin throw. Her competitive career, marked by significant international achievements, firmly established her as a prominent figure in women's athletics during the mid-20th century. Krüger maintained a deep connection to her roots, having been born and eventually passing away in Dresden, Germany, the city she called home throughout her life.
Luise Krüger: A Pioneering German Javelin Thrower
As a leading female athlete from Germany, Luise Krüger specialized in the javelin, an Olympic track and field discipline that combines strength, technique, and precision. Athletes in this event aim to throw a spear-like object as far as possible, requiring intense training and a unique skill set. Krüger's dedication to this demanding sport led her to achieve remarkable success on the global stage, earning her a lasting place in the annals of German sports history.
Key International Achievements
Krüger's career was highlighted by two major medal-winning performances at prestigious international competitions:
- 1934 Women's World Games, London: In 1934, Krüger represented Germany at the 4th Women's World Games held in London, United Kingdom. These games were significant for being a pioneering international multi-sport event exclusively for women, organized by the International Women's Sports Federation (FSFI). It was a crucial platform for female athletes before women's events were fully integrated into the Olympic program. At this event, Luise Krüger secured the bronze medal in the javelin throw, marking her first major international recognition.
- 1936 Summer Olympics, Berlin: Two years later, Krüger achieved her most notable success at the 1936 Summer Olympic Games, famously hosted in Berlin, Germany. Competing on home soil, she delivered an outstanding performance in the women's javelin throw. Krüger earned the silver medal with a throw of 43.29 meters, securing a remarkable one-two finish for Germany alongside her teammate Tilly Fleischer, who took the gold medal with a throw of 45.18 meters. This achievement not only solidified Krüger's status as one of the world's elite javelin throwers but also contributed to a memorable moment for German athletics at their home Olympics.
Luise Krüger's Legacy
Luise Krüger's legacy is primarily defined by her athletic achievements, particularly her Olympic silver medal, which places her among Germany's notable Olympic medalists in track and field. Her success at both the Women's World Games and the Olympics underscores her consistent performance at the highest levels of competition during a period when women's sports were gaining increasing recognition and competitive depth.
Frequently Asked Questions about Luise Krüger
- When and where was Luise Krüger born and where did she pass away?
- Luise Krüger was born on January 11, 1915, and passed away on June 13, 2001. Both her birth and death occurred in Dresden, Germany.
- What was Luise Krüger's primary athletic discipline?
- Luise Krüger specialized in the javelin throw, a throwing event within track and field athletics.
- What major medals did Luise Krüger win?
- Luise Krüger won a bronze medal in the javelin at the 1934 Women's World Games in London and a silver medal in the javelin at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin.
- Who won the gold medal in the javelin at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, ahead of Luise Krüger?
- At the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Luise Krüger's German teammate, Tilly Fleischer, won the gold medal in the javelin throw.