The Czech athletics community continues to mourn the loss of Helena Fuchsová, a former standout middle-distance runner who passed away in 2021 at the age of 55 after a long illness. Beyond her own impressive athletic achievements, Fuchsová is remembered as a deeply supportive figure who profoundly impacted the careers of fellow athletes, most notably Olympic champion Zuzana Hejnová.
Fuchsová’s influence extended far beyond the track. She competed at the highest levels, earning bronze medals in the indoor World and European Championships at 400 meters, a silver medal at the European Championships, a bronze at the indoor World Championships in the 800m, and finishing fifth in the 800m at the 2000 Sydney Olympics – a remarkable feat considering a late switch in distance due to illness. But it was her generosity and dedication to helping others that truly defined her legacy.
Hejnová, reflecting on Fuchsová’s impact, spoke of the invaluable support she received during a difficult period in her career. “She helped me tremendously. I went to her for physiotherapy and also as a psychologist. She cleared my head, and thanks to her, I was able to win the World Championship in Beijing in 2015,” Hejnová said, highlighting Fuchsová’s crucial role in her gold medal victory. The support began in 2014, as Hejnová recovered from a foot injury that sidelined her for an entire season following a stellar 2013.
The connection between the two athletes was deeply personal. “We were very close as friends,” Hejnová shared, adding that she initially believed Fuchsová would recover from her illness. “I loved her very much and believed she would get better.” The news of Fuchsová’s passing, five years ago, was a significant blow.
Ludmila Formanová, a former rival and teammate of Fuchsová’s, echoed the sentiment of profound loss. “The news of Helenka’s death was like a bolt from the blue. I don’t even remember her having any major health problems in the past,” Formanová said, expressing her shock and sadness. The pair competed together for years, including a silver medal-winning performance in the 4x400m relay at the 1995 World Indoor Championships alongside Naděžda Koštovalová and Hana Benešová.
Formanová recalled a long and respectful rivalry with Fuchsová, particularly after Fuchsová transitioned from the 400m to the 800m. “When Helenka moved from the 400m to the 800m, we became rivals. But only on the track, otherwise we remained friends. I admit that thanks to her, I had the motivation to achieve better performances, she helped me to faster times,” she explained.
Fuchsová’s approach to athletics and life was characterized by a quiet strength and a reluctance to reveal personal struggles. “Helenka was always very strong and didn’t wish to show that she wasn’t feeling well. To leave at 55 is too soon,” Hejnová observed. This stoicism, while admirable, may have contributed to her giving so much of herself to others, potentially at her own expense.
Hejnová described Fuchsová as someone who “would supply everything away,” suggesting that her selfless dedication to helping others may have ultimately taken a toll on her health. “She gave her energy and all her strength to others. Maybe she helped so much that it broke her. She just gave and gave,” Hejnová said.
Beyond her work with elite athletes, Fuchsová continued to contribute to the world of sports after her competitive career ended. She worked as a masseuse for the Prague Slavia hockey team and, more recently, assisted tennis player Kateřina Siniaková with her conditioning. This demonstrated a continued commitment to supporting athletes across different disciplines.
Fuchsová was also known for her unconventional methods, incorporating techniques like pendulum work and card readings into her approach. She was a highly sought-after professional, constantly in demand for her expertise and compassionate support. “It was an experience just to be in the same room with her,” Hejnová said, reflecting on the unique atmosphere Fuchsová created.
Formanová admired Fuchsová’s work ethic and dedication. “I admired her as a huge worker. Above all, thanks to her stubbornness, hard work in training, and incredible diligence, she became a top athlete,” she stated. Fuchsová’s commitment to excellence served as an inspiration to those around her.
The story of Helena Fuchsová is a testament to the power of mentorship, the importance of resilience, and the lasting impact one person can have on the lives of others. While her passing was a profound loss for the Czech athletics community, her spirit of generosity and dedication will continue to inspire generations of athletes to approach. Her fifth-place finish at the Sydney Olympics, despite battling mononucleosis, stands as a powerful symbol of her unwavering determination.
The Czech athletics federation has not announced any specific memorial events at this time, but Hejnová and Formanová continue to speak of Fuchsová’s legacy with fondness and respect. Athletes and fans alike are encouraged to share their memories of Helena Fuchsová on social media using the hashtag #HelenaFuchsová.
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