Overview

• Starke attended every Biathlon World Cup location in ten consecutive seasons and followed the sport for more than 25 years after debuting in Oberhof in 1992.
• His distinctive 2.5-kilogram hat adorned with over 400 pins and his friendly demeanor made him a sought-after figure for photos with fans and athletes alike.
• Fans and athletes worldwide, including Olympic relay champion Michael Rösch, shared tributes and memories on social media following news of his passing.
• In a January 2021 interview, Starke revealed he had been managing kidney problems in recent years.
• He was a founding member of TTC Köln-Ostheim 1976 e. V. and dedicated decades to supporting its youth section alongside his biathlon enthusiasm.