Birger Ruud

Birger Ruud (August 23, 1911 - June 13, 1998) was a Norwegian ski jumper. Born in Kongsberg, he and his brother Sigmund dominated international jumping in the 1930s. World Champion in 1931, 1935 and 1937, Birger also won the Olympic gold medal in 1932 and 1936. In 1936 he won the downhill competition as well, the only athlete ever to have accomplished both.

Related Topics:
August 23 - 1911 - June 13 - 1998 - Norwegian - Ski jumper - Kongsberg - Sigmund - 1930s - 1931 - 1935 - 1937 - 1932 - 1936

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In 1943, during the German occupation of Norway, Ruud was committed to Grini prison camp for expressing his anti-Nazi sentiments. Impressively, he competed also in the 1948 Olympics, at age 36, winning the silver medal. This accomplishment he personally held in the highest regard. Twice he sat ski jumping world records: 76.5 m (250.98 ft) in Odnesbakken in 1931, and 92 m (301.84 ft) in Planica in 1934.

Related Topics:
1943 - German occupation of Norway - Grini - Nazi - 1948 Olympics - Odnesbakken - Planica - 1934

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Ruud was supposed to light the Olympic Flame at the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics, but had to forfeit due to heart complications immediately before the event.

Related Topics:
Light - Olympic Flame - 1994 - Lillehammer Olympics

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In 1987, a bronze sculpture of Birger Ruud, by the Norwegian sculptor Per Ung, was set up in Ruud?s native town of Kongsberg.

Related Topics:
1987 - Per Ung

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• Information at the IOC web site
• Sculpture