Born: 1929 (Pécs, Hungary)
Died: 2020
Biography:
Olga Tass (married name Lemhényi; 29 March 1929 – 10 July 2020) was a Hungarian gymnast who left an indelible mark on the world of gymnastics. Born in Pécs, Tass began her gymnastics journey in 1941, but her international debut had to wait until after World War II. Despite the delayed start, she quickly established herself as a formidable competitor on the global stage.
In 1948, Tass made her Olympic debut at the London Games. Representing Hungary, she showcased her exceptional skills and contributed significantly to her team’s success. The Hungarian gymnastics team, including Tass, won a silver medal in the team competition. This achievement marked the beginning of a remarkable Olympic career that spanned four editions.
At the 1952 Helsinki Olympic Games, Tass once again demonstrated her unparalleled talent. She earned a silver medal with the Hungarian team and a bronze medal in the team portable apparatus. Her consistent performance and unwavering dedication were recognized, solidifying her status as one of Hungary’s most accomplished gymnasts.
Tass’s third Olympic appearance came in Melbourne in 1956, where she shone brighter than ever before. She soared to new heights by capturing a gold medal in the team portable apparatus, a silver medal in the team final, and an individual bronze on vault. These accolades underscored her versatility and all-around excellence in the sport.
Undeterred by age, Tass continued her Olympic journey, representing Hungary for the fourth time at the 1960 Rome Games. Her unwavering determination and commitment to her craft allowed her to compete at the highest level even as the years passed. Tass’s participation in four Olympic Games was a remarkable feat that earned her the distinction of holding the record for the most appearances by a female gymnast at the Olympics. Her accomplishments paved the way for future generations of gymnasts, inspiring them to reach for their dreams.
Beyond her stellar competitive career, Tass devoted herself to coaching, passing down her knowledge and expertise to the next wave of gymnasts. She studied at the University of Physical Education, eventually becoming a teacher in 1951. In 1978, she took on the role of a gymnastics coach, and in 1981, she attained the esteemed title of gymnastics master coach. Her contributions to the sport extended beyond Hungary’s borders when she was entrusted with coaching the French national team from 1961 to 1968.
Outside the gymnastics arena, Tass had a fulfilling personal life. She was married to Dezső Lemhényi, a Hungarian water polo player who also competed in the 1948 and 1952 Summer Olympics. The couple shared a deep connection through their athletic endeavors and supported each other throughout their careers. Tass’s husband passed away in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of sporting excellence.
On 10 July 2020, Olga Tass bid farewell to the world, leaving behind a rich legacy of achievements and inspiring countless individuals. Her remarkable journey came to an end at the age of 91, leaving a void in the gymnastics community. To honor her immeasurable impact on the sport, Tass was posthumously inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 2021. Her dedication, talent, and unwavering spirit will continue to inspire gymnasts for generations to come.
Awards:
– Olympic Games (1948): Silver medal in the team competition
– Olympic Games (1952): Silver medal with the Hungarian team, Bronze medal in the team portable apparatus
– Olympic Games (1956): Gold medal in the team portable apparatus, Silver medal in the team final, Bronze medal on vault
– Inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 2021.