Former Pole Vaulter Tim Lobinger Passes Away, But Leaves Behind an Inspiring Legacy of Strength and Perseverance
Despite knowing that things were not going well for him, Tim Lobinger never lost his spirit, his passion for life, and his love for his family and his sport. The former Pole Vaulter fought against an aggressive form of cancer for six years, but according to his family, he did not lose the fight, he won it in his own way. He passed away in Munich on Thursday at the age of 50.
Most people would give up or lose hope when faced with such a daunting challenge, but not Tim. He did exactly what made him happy, and what made him feel strong, until the very end. He spent quality time with his three children and his new girlfriend, and continued to work as a coach and personal trainer for Red Bull until shortly before his death.
Tim’s greatest sporting achievements were in 1998, when he became the European Champion in Valencia, and in 2003, when he became the World Champion in Birmingham. He also won bronze at the European Championships in 2002, and silver in 2006. But even when he was no longer able to compete at the elite level, Tim remained active in sports, doing fitness exercises and dumbbell training to stabilize his muscles.
In his last days, Tim was especially close to his youngest son, Okki, whom he affectionately called. He was also looking forward to his plans for “next week,” and sent private photos to BILD documenting his fight against the disease. He never whined, he never lost his gratitude for the gift of life, and he never lost his sense of humor.
Tim Lobinger will be remembered not only for his sporting achievements, but also for his inspiring legacy of strength and perseverance, his love for his family and his sport, and his ability to find joy and meaning in life, even in the face of adversity. He is gone, but he will not be forgotten.
