For about two decades, Örjan Sandler competed in speed skating. His first major international competitions were in the 1964, and he competed through the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics. A solid long distance skater, his international successes were modest. In the European Championships, he consistently reached the final 16, but never placed better than 7th (1975). His best placement in the World Championships was also 7th, achieved in 1969. In the Olympics, Sandler had his major international result. In the 1968 Grenbole 10,000 m, Sandler took an unexpected bronze behind the surprising Johnny Höglin and the favored Fred Anton Maier. In Swedish championships, Sandler’s results were modest too, winning five titles in all: 1,500 m (1967), 5,000 m (1967) and 10,000 m (1969, 1975-76). Sandler was also active in various other sports, such as orienteering and running, and he became a successful Masters athlete in the triathlon. Having studied at the Idrottshögskolan in Stockholm, Sandler worked as a sports teacher in Strömsund.
Personal Bests: 500 – 41.2 (1969); 1000 – 1:21.9 (1969); 1500 – 2:04.2 (1968); 5000 – 7:22.5 (1969); 10000 – 15:09.00 (1980).
Sweden