Born: 1930 (Bombay, India)
Jeannette Eleanor Wirz CBE, formerly known as Jeannette Altwegg, was a renowned British figure skater who left an indelible mark on the sport. Born on September 8, 1930, in Bombay, India, she quickly rose to prominence as a figure skater, achieving remarkable success throughout her career. Altwegg’s exceptional talent and tenacity propelled her to become the 1952 Olympic champion, the 1948 Olympic bronze medalist, the 1951 World champion, and a two-time European champion in 1951 and 1952.
Altwegg’s journey in the world of figure skating commenced under the guidance of her dedicated coach, Jacques Gerschwiler. She distinguished herself through her mastery of compulsory figures, which showcased her technical prowess. Her dedication and unwavering focus set her apart from her peers.
In 1948, at the Winter Olympics in St. Moritz, Switzerland, Altwegg clinched the bronze medal, securing her position as one of the sport’s premier athletes. Standing on the podium alongside Barbara Ann Scott of Canada and Eva Pawlik of Austria, Altwegg displayed her ability to excel among the world’s greatest skaters.
The pinnacle of Altwegg’s career arrived in 1951 when she stunned spectators at the European Championships in Zurich and the World Championships in Milan. Claiming victory in both competitions, she solidified her status as the leading figure skater of her time. The following year, she successfully defended her European title at the 1952 European Championships in Vienna.
Altwegg’s crowning glory came at the 1952 Winter Olympics in Oslo, Norway. Earning the coveted gold medal, she accomplished what no British woman had before – becoming the first individual female gold medalist at a Winter Olympics. Outshining competitors like Tenley Albright of the United States and Jacqueline du Bief of France, Altwegg etched her name in sporting history. Her feat remained unmatched until the 2010 Winter Olympics, where Amy Williams claimed gold in skeleton.
Despite her monumental achievements on the ice, Altwegg chose to forego a lucrative professional career due to a debilitating knee injury. Her decision showcased her unwavering commitment to the sport and exemplified her character as a true athlete.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions to figure skating, Altwegg was awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1953. Her impact on the sport was also acknowledged when she was inducted into the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame in 1993, solidifying her place among the all-time greats.
Following her retirement, Altwegg dedicated her efforts to the wellbeing of children, working at the Pestalozzi Children’s Village in Switzerland. Outside of her professional endeavors, she married Marc Wirz, the brother of Swiss skater Susi Wirz, and together they raised four children before their divorce in 1973.
Tragically, on June 18, 2021, Switzerland mourned the loss of Jeannette Altwegg. Her unforgettable contributions to figure skating have left an enduring legacy in the sport, inspiring generations of future athletes.
Awards:
– 1952 Winter Olympics: Gold medal
– 1948 Winter Olympics: Bronze medal
– 1951 World Championships: Gold medal
– 1951 European Championships: Gold medal
– 1952 European Championships: Gold medal
– 1953: Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)