Klaus Tafelmeier, German javelin thrower

Klaus-Dieter Tafelmeier, born on 12 April 1958 in Singen, a picturesque town nestled in the southern German state of Baden-Württemberg, is celebrated as a retired German javelin thrower whose career marked a significant moment in the sport's history. Throughout his competitive years, he proudly represented Bayer 04 Leverkusen, one of Germany's most renowned multi-sport clubs, particularly distinguished in athletics.

A Historic Throw: The First World Record for the New Javelin

Tafelmeier's name is etched into the annals of javelin throwing for a truly groundbreaking achievement. In September 1986, during a competition held in Como, Italy, he unleashed a throw of 85.74 metres. This monumental effort was not just a personal best; it was officially recognized as the very first world record established with the newly redesigned javelin. The introduction of this "new javelin type" in 1986 was a pivotal moment for the sport. Athletics authorities, concerned by the increasingly flat landings and prodigious distances achieved with the older javelin, which sometimes made judging difficult and posed safety risks, mandated a design change. The center of gravity was moved forward by four centimetres, causing the implement to land more steeply and reducing overall distances, effectively resetting the record books.

His pioneering record, a testament to his adaptability and skill, held for a relatively short but impactful period. It stood until May 1987, when the legendary Czech thrower Jan Železný, who would later become one of the greatest javelin throwers of all time with multiple Olympic and World Championship titles, surpassed it with a throw of 87.66 metres.

Career Best and Lasting Legacy in German Athletics

Beyond his world record, Tafelmeier continued to demonstrate elite performance. He later achieved his career-best throw of 86.64 metres in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, further solidifying his status as a formidable competitor. This impressive mark places him seventh among German javelin throwers who have competed with the redesigned implement, showcasing his enduring legacy in national athletics. He stands proudly among a distinguished group of German javelin talents, including contemporary stars like Johannes Vetter and Thomas Röhler, as well as notable throwers from earlier eras such as Raymond Hecht, Boris Henry, Peter Blank, and Peter Esenwein, underscoring his significant contribution to the sport in Germany.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What was Klaus-Dieter Tafelmeier's most significant achievement?

Klaus-Dieter Tafelmeier is most notably recognized for setting the very first official world record with the redesigned javelin in September 1986, throwing 85.74 metres.

Why was the javelin design changed in 1986?

The javelin was redesigned in 1986 by moving its center of gravity forward. This change was implemented to address safety concerns and ensure more consistent, steeper landings, as the older javelin design was leading to increasingly flat throws and distances that were becoming difficult to manage and judge.

How long did Klaus-Dieter Tafelmeier's world record stand?

His world record of 85.74 metres stood for approximately eight months, from September 1986 until May 1987.

Who broke Tafelmeier's world record?

The record was broken by Jan Železný of Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic), who threw 87.66 metres in May 1987. Železný went on to become one of the most dominant javelin throwers in history.

Where does Klaus-Dieter Tafelmeier rank among German javelin throwers?

With his career-best throw of 86.64 metres, Klaus-Dieter Tafelmeier ranks seventh among German javelin throwers who have competed with the new implement.