Michael HADSCHIEFF

Arguably the best male Austrian speed skater of all time, Michael Hadschieff had his greatest years in 1987 and 1988. In the former year, he placed second in the European Allround Championships, while ranking third in the Worlds. The following season, he placed fourth in both events, but earned two medals at the Calgary Olympics. In the 10,000 m, he broke the Olympic record, but was later bettered by Tomas Gustafson who set a new world record. In that race Hadschieff was noted for wearing a red visor as an extension of his suit (for protection of his contact lenses against the dry air) and a plastic board under his suit to improve his aerodynamics. Earlier in the tournament, Hadschieff had already placed third in the 1,500 m. In addition to these prizes, Hadschieff captured the 1,500 m World Cup in both the 1986 and 1989 seasons - the latter shared with Eric Flaim. Hadschieff, whose brothers Markus and Julian where also skaters as juniors, collected seven Austrian allround titles, as well as six sprint titles. After ending his career in 1994, he started his business career, and among others worked for sports manufacturer Puma and as a career advisor for other athletes.

Personal Bests: 500 – 37.85 (1989); 1000 – 1:13.84 (1988); 1500 – 1:52.31 (1988); 5000 – 6:47.93 (1988); 10000 – 13:56.11 (1988).