Detlef Michel

Javelin thrower Detlef Michal was eliminated in the qualifying of the 1980 and 1988 Olympics. His best results were a gold medal at the 1983 World Championships, and at second place at the 1983 World Cup. At the European Championships he placed fourth in 1978, won a bronze medal in 1982, and a silver in 1986. Michel also won the European Cup in 1981 and 1983. Domestically he won seven East German titles in 1975, 1979-80, 1982-83, and 1986-87.

Many documents on doping in the former GDR became public after reunification, and Michel’s name was found in the list of doped athletes. A gas and water plumber, he later worked for a construction company, but in 2007 he opened a gym in Berlin.

Personal Bests: JT (old) – 96.72 (1983); JT – 84.06 (1988).