Jurgen Schult Former German track and field athlete, current world record holder in discus throw. Date of Birth: 11.05.1960 Country: Germany

1. The Record-Breaking Disc Thrower
2. The Unbreakable Record
3. The Doping Scandal
4. Early Life and Career
5. The Record-Setting Throw
6. Olympic and International Competitions
7. Post-Retirement Career

The Record-Breaking Disc Thrower

Jürgen Schult, a former German athlete and disc thrower, holds the current world record in the event. Known initially for his unprecedented achievement, Schult's reputation has since been tarnished by his involvement in a high-profile doping scandal.

The Unbreakable Record

Schult set his record in 1986, becoming the male athlete with the longest-standing record in athletics history. As a member of East Germany's Olympic team, he also won the Olympic gold medal in disc throw. After the reunification of Germany, Schult continued to compete until 2000.

The Doping Scandal

Schult's reputation was damaged after the publication of previously secret documents revealing the systematic use of performance-enhancing drugs in East Germany. He admitted to taking oral turinabol, a steroid, from 1981 to 1984. Initially denying any wrongdoing, he eventually paid a substantial fine for giving false testimony.

Early Life and Career

Schult began his sporting career under communist rule, training under Dr. Hermann Brandt at SC Traktor Schwerin. He later transferred to Schwerin SC and SC Riesa. Simultaneously, he pursued a degree in physical education. In 1984, he was prevented from competing in the Los Angeles Olympics due to East Germany's boycott.

The Record-Setting Throw

In 1986, Schult made an unforgettable mark on the sport by setting the world record in the disc throw. His distance of 47.08 meters shattered the previous record by 2.22 meters. The record remains unbroken to this day.

Olympic and International Competitions

In 1988, Schult participated in the first athletics competition between West and East Germany. However, he refused to shake the hand of West German winner Wolfgang Schmidt, reportedly on orders from GDR team management. At the 1992 Olympics, he placed second, earning the silver medal. He won another silver medal at the 1999 World Championships.

Post-Retirement Career

After retiring from athletics, Schult transitioned into coaching and became the national coach for the German athletics association. In 2011, he became senior national coach.