Ronald Weigel

Ronald Weigel (born 8 August 1959 in Hildburghausen, Thuringia) is a German athlete and Olympic medal winner.

He was unable to participate in the 1984 Summer Olympic Games because of the East German boycott, when he was the overwhelming favourite to win.

Weigel started in the sport as a student in his hometown of Hildburghausen and was found to have natural talent.

He trained the Australian Nathan Deakes who won the bronze medal in the 20 km walk at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games and was the 2007 World Champion over 50 km walk After the games, Weigel went back to Germany and took over from his previous trainer, Hans-Joachim Pathus as the German national trainer.

His admitted work for the East German security service was taken into consideration, but was not deemed to be a hindrance in hiring him.