The entire ITU family is deeply saddened by the passing of Michael Machaka, one of our long time international technical officials.

Switzerland’s Michael Machacka was without doubt one of the most experienced officials in Europe, and was fondly called ‘The Gentleman’ by the younger generation of ITU staff and officials.

As one of the first members of the so called ‘Orange Team’, organized a decade ago by Michel Gignoux, Michael was at the forefront of a new philosophy to the officiating method that is still being used today.

Michael was a member of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games team as the Assistant Cycle Official, and was also present last year in Beijing as the Assistant Registration Official. His technical expertise could always be counted on in the most difficult circumstances at any time of the day.

Michael volunteered thousands of hours for our sport and was a master of performing the delicate art of officiating with dignity and a quiet strength. He made a significant impact to the sport culture of the field of play.

Our sad condolences go to Michael’s wife Karin and his family.
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ITU were also saddened to learn this week of the passing of young South African duathlete Ruan Aspeling, who was tragically killed in a car crash.

Ruan won the South African youth championships two years in a row and represented his country at the junior level in two ITU Duathlon World Championships, Rimini 2008 and Gyor 2007.

Our condolences go out to his family, friends and Triathlon South Africa.