Ernst Baier

Ernst Baier, born on September twenty-seventh, nineteen oh five, was a remarkable German figure skater who excelled in both pair and single skating. He achieved Olympic glory in nineteen thirty-six, capturing the gold medal in pair skating alongside his partner, Maxi Herber. Their partnership was not only successful at the Olympics but also included numerous World and European championships, solidifying their status as one of the top duos in the sport.

Baier's journey in figure skating began with his representation of Berliner SC, where he showcased his talent as a single skater as well. He earned silver medals at the European, World, and Olympic Games in singles, demonstrating his versatility and skill. His competitive spirit was evident as he participated in the European Championships in nineteen twenty-nine and nineteen thirty, finishing in seventh and fifth places, respectively. Over four appearances at the World Championships from nineteen thirty-one to nineteen thirty-four, he secured two bronze and two silver medals.

The partnership between Baier and Herber was marked by their innovative performances, including the execution of side-by-side Axel jumps at the nineteen thirty-four Championships, which were likely the first of their kind at an ISU championship. They also created the 'Baier lift,' a unique maneuver that showcased their creativity and technical prowess. After a brief hiatus in nineteen thirty-five due to injury, the duo returned to dominate the ice, culminating in their Olympic victory in nineteen thirty-six.

Following their competitive careers, Baier and Herber married in nineteen forty and had three children before divorcing in nineteen sixty-four. Post-World War II, they entertained audiences in ice shows, even creating their own production, which was later acquired by Holiday on Ice. Baier also pursued a career as an architect and coach, contributing to the sport in various capacities. In nineteen seventy-nine, their contributions to figure skating were recognized with their induction into the World Figure Skating Hall of Fame.

In a twist of fate, Baier married Swedish figure skater Birgitta Wennström, known as 'Topsy,' in nineteen sixty-five. They welcomed a daughter in nineteen sixty-eight but divorced in nineteen seventy-three. Baier later remarried Maxi Herber, though this union also ended in divorce, highlighting the complexities of his personal life amidst a celebrated career.