Born: 1943
Biography:
Ingrid Gulbin (née Krämer then Engel-Krämer, born 29 July 1943) is a diver from East Germany, and a multiple Olympic champion who won Olympic gold medals in both springboard and platform diving.
Krämer competed in the 1960 and 1964 Summer Olympics for the United Team of Germany. In the 1960 Olympics, she demonstrated her exceptional talent by winning gold medals in both springboard and platform diving. Her masterful performances earned her recognition as the first non-American woman in forty years to win an Olympic diving gold medal.
She continued her success at the 1964 Games, competing under the name Engel-Krämer and securing a gold medal in the springboard event. Additionally, she earned a silver medal in platform diving, further solidifying her status as one of the world’s top divers at the time. She also had the honor of being selected as the German flag bearer during the opening ceremonies.
In the following years, Gulbin-Krämer competed for East Germany in the 1968 Olympics. This time, she adopted the name Gulbin. Although she finished fifth in the 3-meter springboard competition, her presence in the Olympic finals showcased her consistent skill and perseverance.
Gulbin-Krämer’s success was not limited to the Olympic stage. In the 1958 European Aquatics Championships, as a young 15-year-old diver, she finished fourth in the springboard and eighth in the platform events. However, she proved her tenacity and determination by winning both events in 1962, establishing herself as the undisputed top diver in the world.
After the 1968 Olympics, Gulbin-Krämer decided to retire from competitive diving and transitioned into a successful career as a diving coach. She dedicated her expertise to train future diving talents, guiding athletes such as Martina Jäschke, Beate Jahn, Jan Hempel, Michael Kühne, Heiko Meyer, and Annett Gamm. Her coaching skills ensured a smooth transition from athlete to mentor, and her contributions to the sport of diving were invaluable.
Unfortunately, Gulbin-Krämer faced challenges during the reunification of Germany, which resulted in the loss of her diving coaching job. She adapted to the circumstances and pursued a career as a bank clerk, showcasing her resilience in the face of adversity.
Beyond her achievements in the world of diving, Gulbin-Krämer also experienced personal and professional successes. In November 1963, she married Hein Engel, a German weightlifter and coach, and competed in the 1964 Olympics as Engel-Krämer. Her remarkable talent and undeniable dedication led her to receive numerous accolades, including being elected sportspersonality of the year in East Germany from 1960 to 1964. Additionally, in 1960, she became the only individual to win the sportspersonality of the year award in both East and West Germany, further highlighting her widespread recognition and impact on the sport.
In recognition of her exceptional achievements, Gulbin-Krämer was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 1975. Her dedication, skill, and contributions to the world of diving have solidified her position as a true icon in the sport.
Awards:
– Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1975.