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Erhard KellerGerman speed skater
Date of Birth: 24.12.1944
Country:  Germany |
Content:
Erhard Keller: A German Speed Skating Legend
Early Life and EducationGerman speed skater Erhard Keller was born in Munich, Germany. From 1959 to 1965, he attended the Max Planck Gymnasium in Munich and later studied at the Karlsgymnasium in Bad Reichenhall. In 1966, he graduated from high school with an Abitur degree.
Keller then enrolled at the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich to study medicine. Upon graduating, he became a dentist.
Speed Skating Career
From 1966 to 1973, Erhard Keller was one of the world's top sprinters. In December 1967, he equaled the world record held by Soviet skater Evgeny Grishin in the 500 meters with a time of 39.5 seconds. A month later, he surpassed Grishin's record, which had stood for five years, with a time of 39.2 seconds.
Keller won the 500 meters event twice at the Winter Universiade (1968 and 1970). At the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France, he won the gold medal in the 500 meters with a time of 40.3 seconds. Keller became the first German male speed skater to win an Olympic gold medal.
In 1971, Keller won the World Sprint Championships in Inzell, Germany. At the 1972 Winter Olympics in Sapporo, Japan, he won his second gold medal in the 500 meters with an Olympic record time of 39.44 seconds.
Throughout his career, Keller set 10 world records, including the 500 meters (38.0 seconds), 1,000 meters (1:18.5 seconds), and the sprint all-around.
Professional Career and Later Life
In 1973, Keller turned professional and won the World Cup for professional skaters. From 1974, he no longer competed internationally. In 1975, he returned to Munich and established a dental practice.
Keller hosted several television shows in the 1970s. He also served as a commentator for speed skating events at the Winter Olympic Games for ARD and ZDF in 1976, 1984, 1988, 1992, and 1994.
