Greece bids a heartfelt farewell to Olympic pole vaulting legend George Roubanis, who passed away at the age of 95.
A revered figure in Greek sports history, Roubanis secured the bronze medal at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, achieving a height of 4.50 metres in a grueling competition that lasted nearly 11 hours.
The Hellenic Olympic Committee (HOC) expressed its deep sorrow over the passing of the country’s oldest Olympic champion. HOC President Isidoros Kouvelos paid tribute to Roubanis, highlighting his immense contribution to Greek sports and the Olympic movement.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of George Roubanis, a true champion who brought glory to Greece and raised our flag high on the world stage. He was the first post-war athlete to bring honor to our country, and his legacy extends beyond his athletic achievements. Even after retiring from competition, he remained dedicated to Olympism, inspiring young generations and founding the Association of Greek Olympians in 1985,” Kouvelos stated.
Roubanis was born on August 15, 1929, in Thessaloniki, into a family with strong athletic traditions. His father, Savvas, was a gymnast, while his brother Aristides was a javelin thrower before switching to basketball due to injury. After retiring from sports in 1961, Roubanis continued to support Greek athletics, dedicating his life to promoting the Olympic ideals.
To honour his memory, the Hellenic Olympic Committee will cover all funeral expenses and issue an official resolution commemorating his loss.
Roubanis’ legacy as a pioneering Greek Olympian and a role model for future generations will endure, ensuring that his name remains etched in the history of Greek sport.
(Source: Hellenic Olympic Committee)
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