The IJF is moved to hear of the passing of Olympic and European medallist Mr Eric Hänni of Switzerland who died at the age of 86 on Christmas Day.
The 1964 lightweight podium at the Tokyo Olympic Games. (Photo in the public domain.)
Mr Hänni, a beloved figure within the Swiss judo family, won silver at the first Olympic judo event, in Tokyo in 1964. Of course this was Switzerland’s first medal in judo’s Olympic history. He was also Swiss national champion 7 times and competed at 12 European championships and 3 world championships.
Mr Hänni held the highly respected grade of ninth dan, was an uchi-mata specialist and was, as the Swiss Judo Federation noted, “A source of inspiration and a role model for many.”
The IJF sends sincere condolences to Mr Hänni’s family and friends and to the Swiss Judo Federation at this sad time.
Photo courtesy of the Swiss Judo Federation.