Hans-Heinrich RAFF

Middle- and long-distance runner Hans-Heinrich Raff was later called the “father of athletics in Oberhausen” as he led several track athletes to successful careers. He was employed by a chemical enterprise. After the ”Anschluss” of Austria in 1938 Raff was Austrian Champion in 1942 in the 1,500 and 5K. In Germany he won national titles in the 5K in 1936 and 1941. He received the DLV-Needle in Gold in 1953.

After his Olympic participation, Raff ensured that all Oberhausen athletes, who were distributed in small gymnastic clubs, joined the VfL 1897 Oberhausen. At first he was an active athlete, coach and organizer all in one. Even during the war years he was constantly in touch with his athletes. After the war, when the athletes went over to SC Rot-Weiß Oberhausen, his reputation caused many good athletes to follow him and join VfL 1897 Oberhausen (including Heinz Westerteicher, Maria Sander, Helmut Janz, Heinz Fallak, August Kirsch and many others).

Personal Best: 3000S – 9:21.8 (1940).