Lifetime Achievement Award for Wolfgang Schäfer
Hamburg, Germany - 23 April 2024 - The German Offshore Award, a prestigious event in the sailing community, marked its 17th edition on Monday evening in the grand ballroom of Hamburg City Hall. Dr Wolfgang Schäfer, a long-time Member of the ORC Board and Vice Chairman for many years, was bestowed with the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his significant contributions to the sport.
Dr Wolfgang Schäfer, who was an integral part of the German ocean racing scene for decades with his "Struntje" yachts, received the award in front of around 200 guests.
Albert Schweizer, a long-time sailing companion of the multiple Admiral's Cup participant and later Farr 40 World Champion, who represented the interests of German sea sailors for over 15 years with him on the DSV Sailing Committee, gave the witty laudatory speech.
In preparation for his speech, Albert Schweizer spoke on the phone with Italian America's Cup helmsman Francesco "Cecco" Bruni, who has also sailed for Wolfgang Schäfer, for example, in the 2015 California Cup off Los Angeles.
Francesco “Cecco” Bruni’s comment, as quoted by Albert Schweizer: "The Dottore, Bruni told me, is an incredible sailor. But not with his bum. He does everything with his head."
Wolfgang Schäfer, who had not expected to be honoured, celebrated the award for his life's work with his wife and long-time navigator Angela Schäfer.
On stage, Schäfer said: "I'm completely surprised. Nobody told me anything. The 'Struntje' turned 50 last year. Until two years ago, we were still sailing the North Sea Week." Wolfgang Schäfer passed on the jury's bow and the applause from the audience directly to his wife, and concluded his acceptance speech with the words: "Congratulations, Angela!"
