Austrian alpine skier who won two Olympic medals and three World Championship titles, dominating the slalom discipline in the 1960s and 1970s.
Ernst Hinterseer is a name synonymous with alpine skiing excellence, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s. This Austrian skiing legend is best known for his monumental gold medal win in the slalom event at the 1960 Winter Olympics in Squaw Valley, California.
Born on February 28, 1932, in a small farming community, Hinterseer was groomed for a life of athleticism from a young age. After completing his schooling, he began an apprenticeship as a carpenter, but his true passion lay on the slopes. He soon turned his focus to skiing, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Hinterseer's Olympic debut came in 1956 at the Cortina d'Ampezzo Winter Games, where he finished sixth in the giant slalom event. However, it was his performance at the 1960 Winter Olympics that cemented his status as a skiing icon. His gold medal win in the slalom event, coupled with his bronze medal in the giant slalom, made him an overnight sensation in Austria.
In recognition of his exceptional achievements, Hinterseer was awarded the Austrian Sportsman of the Year in 1960. He received further accolades in 1997, when he was presented with the Goldenes Ehrenzeichen für Verdienste um die Republik Österreich (Order of Merit in Gold) for his services to the Republic of Austria.
Following his retirement from competitive skiing in 1967, Hinterseer transitioned into coaching, where he made a significant impact on the Austrian skiing landscape. He went on to head the Austrian Ski Federation from 1974 to 1976.
Hinterseer's legacy extends beyond his own accomplishments, with his sons – Ernst, Georg, and Hansi – all following in his footsteps to become accomplished ski racers. His grandson, Lukas Hinterseer, has also made a name for himself in the world of football, playing for the Austria national football team.
Ernst Hinterseer's remarkable skiing career, marked by his Olympic triumphs and national accolades, has left an indelible mark on the world of alpine skiing. His coaching legacy and the achievements of his family members have further solidified his status as a skiing legend. Today, Hinterseer remains an icon in Austrian sports, inspiring generations of skiers to strive for excellence.
53 Years Old
Austrian alpine skier who won two Olympic gold medals and three World Cup overall titles, known for his aggressive and dynamic skiing style.
87 Years Old
Austrian alpine skier who won numerous Olympic and World Championship medals, known for his aggressive and daring skiing style. He's a legendary figure in the sport, earning the nickname "Kaiser" (Emperor) for his dominance.
63 Years Old
A Swiss alpine skier who won two Olympic gold medals and four World Cup overall titles, dominating the sport in the 1980s.
52 Years Old
A Swiss alpine skier who won multiple World Cup titles and Olympic medals, dominating the downhill discipline with his fearless and aggressive racing style.
51 Years Old
Austrian World Cup alpine ski racer with 19 victories, including two downhill titles, and a dominant force in the early 2000s.
