Turin, Aug. 10 (LaPresse) – “It is news I would never have wanted to receive. Livio was my master, an intelligent master”. Sara Simeoni, former high jump champion, remembered Livio Berruti, who died yesterday at the age of 87, in an interview with ‘La Stampa’. “Every now and then we would keep in touch. He was always special. Beyond his figure, a pillar of Italian athletics, he was an exceptional person. I competed for Sisport Turin in the 1980s, when he was an executive. So I had the opportunity to meet him often. We met before my victories and the world record. He was always part of my life. He was important. Optimistic, a fine humorist and very kind. He was that way with everyone, with his always available, cheerful, positive manner. He was enthusiastic about life and transmitted energy to everyone. Me included. When I think of him, I can only think of his countless virtues. And he always had a quip ready, he was incredibly funny. I laughed a lot – she recalled – I am losing a very dear friend. One of those people who were always present in my life, even though we no longer saw each other as often. His memory is alive and will remain so forever. I don’t want to compare him to anyone, Livio was unique”.
Berruti, Sara Simeoni: “An intelligent master, he was unique”
Turin, Aug. 10 (LaPresse) – “It is news I would never have wanted to receive. Livio was my master, an intelligent master”. Sara Simeoni, former high jump champion, remembered Livio Berruti, who died yesterday at the age of 87, in an interview with ‘La Stampa’. “Every now and then we would keep in touch. He was always special. Beyond his figure, a pillar of Italian athletics, he was an exceptional person. I competed for Sisport Turin in the 1980s, when he was an executive. So I had the opportunity to meet him often. We met before my victories and the world record. He was always part of my life. He was important. Optimistic, a fine humorist and very kind. He was that way with everyone, with his always available, cheerful, positive manner. He was enthusiastic about life and transmitted energy to everyone. Me included. When I think of him, I can only think of his countless virtues. And he always had a quip ready, he was incredibly funny. I laughed a lot – she recalled – I am losing a very dear friend. One of those people who were always present in my life, even though we no longer saw each other as often. His memory is alive and will remain so forever. I don’t want to compare him to anyone, Livio was unique”.