Wolrad Eberle, German decathlete (d. 1949)
Born on May 4, 1908, in the picturesque German city of Freiburg im Breisgau, Wolrad Eberle would go on to carve out a significant, albeit brief, legacy in the demanding realm of international athletics. His life, marked by dedication to sport and a notable achievement on the global stage, concluded just over four decades later on May 13, 1949, in Cologne.
Eberle's athletic prowess was most profoundly demonstrated in the decathlon, a gruelling multi-event discipline widely regarded as the ultimate test of an athlete's versatility, strength, speed, and endurance. This demanding event, comprising ten distinct track and field disciplines contested over two consecutive days, requires mastery in everything from sprinting and hurdling to throwing (shot put, discus, javelin) and jumping (long jump, high jump, pole vault), culminating in a challenging distance run. Excelling in the decathlon truly earns an athlete the unofficial title of the "world's greatest all-around athlete," a testament to the immense skill and comprehensive physical conditioning required.
It was on the grand stage of the X Olympiad, the 1932 Summer Olympics, that Wolrad Eberle achieved his most notable triumph. Held in the vibrant and burgeoning city of Los Angeles, California, these games were a testament to the enduring spirit of sport, even amidst the global economic challenges of the Great Depression. Despite the logistical difficulties of travel and participation during such a period, athletes from around the world converged, eager to test their mettle and represent their nations.
In the intense competition of the Olympic decathlon, Eberle showcased remarkable consistency and skill across all ten events. His dedication and rigorous training paid off handsomely as he distinguished himself among a field of elite international competitors. His exceptional performance ultimately earned him the bronze medal, a prestigious recognition of his standing among the world's finest all-around athletes. This achievement not only brought personal glory but also highlighted German athletic talent on the international stage during a period of significant global change, solidifying his place in Olympic history.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wolrad Eberle
- Who was Wolrad Eberle?
- Wolrad Eberle was a German decathlete, born in Freiburg in 1908, who is primarily remembered for his Olympic bronze medal achievement.
- What was Wolrad Eberle's most significant athletic achievement?
- He won the bronze medal in the decathlon at the 1932 Summer Olympics, held in Los Angeles, California.
- When and where was Wolrad Eberle born and did he die?
- Wolrad Eberle was born on May 4, 1908, in Freiburg, Germany, and passed away on May 13, 1949, in Cologne, Germany.
- What is a decathlon?
- The decathlon is a comprehensive track and field event contested over two days, requiring athletes to compete in ten different disciplines: the 100-meter dash, long jump, shot put, high jump, 400-meter dash, 110-meter hurdles, discus throw, pole vault, javelin throw, and the 1500-meter run.