The FIE is saddened to announce the passing of Viktor Kirpu, esteemed Estonian fencing coach, on October 11, 2018. He was born on October 31, 1955.
Mr. Kirpu, the father and coach of World Championship epee bronze medallist Erika Kirpu, began practicing fencing in 1966 under Coach Tiit Räni. He competed as a member of the Estonian fencing team between 1973 and 1980, and became a “Grand Master” in 1980. He was a member of the Tartu LNSK since 1984, later the sports club Escrime and since 2007 was a trainer at Tartu Sports Association Kalev.
He served as a member of the Board of the Estonian Fencing Association, and, in addition to Erika Kirpu and many other fencers, notably coached Estonian epeeist Sergei Vaht. Mr. Kirpu also coached at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
On behalf of the world fencing community, we extend our deepest condolences to Viktor Kirpu’s family, friends and the Estonian Fencing Association for their loss.