Eric Hanni, Tokyo 1964 silver medalist and a pioneering figure in judo, passed away on Christmas Day at the age of 86.
The Swiss judoka competed in the sport between 1959 and 1974; winning an Olympic silver medal in 1964 and a lightweight category European bronze medal in the same year.
It was Switzerland’s first medal in judo’s Olympic history. He also won the Swiss national title seven times and competed at 12 European championships and 3 world championships.
Swiss Judo Federation noted him as “A source of inspiration and a role model for many.”
“The IJF sends sincere condolences to Mr Hänni’s family and friends and to the Swiss Judo Federation at this sad time,” the governing body of the sport said in a statement.
He also contributed to the judo community by becoming a national referee in 1965, officiating the European and world levels, starting in 1974 and 1985, respectively.
Hanni started coaching in 1966, initially in Zurich, then at Nippon Bern between 1967 and 1972. He found his own club in Delemont, 1972, which he led until 1995.
In his role, he coached the Swiss national junior and senior teams besides serving as vice-president of the Swiss Judo Association.
He was honored with 9th dan, becoming the first Swiss judoka to receive the distinction that underscored his lifelong dedication to the sport.