It is with great sadness that we announce that the long-term president of the Duisburg Canoe Association and one of Germany's top sports administrators Otto Schulte passed away suddenly at the age of 66 years.

Otto was a cornerstone of all canoeing activity at the sports German home in Duisburg and was instrumental in the successful delivery of a host of world class events, including the 1995, 2007 and 2013 ICF Canoe Sprint World Championships.

The Duisburg Sports Park was Otto's second home and where he made an international name. He was a maker who did not want to be in the spotlight - modest, animated by the love of the sport. ​​

In addition to his canoeing success, Otto was also the deputy chairman of the Duisburg's Sports Association; he was also a key player in the successful delivery of the 2005 World Games and president of the 2012 Masters World Rowing Championship.

"Otto will be in remembered as one of the sports great administrators who always delivered with typical German precision. It is deeply saddening that we have lost such a pivotal figure and my thoughts go to his friends and family," said Jose Perurena, ICF President.

German Canoe President, Thomas Konietzko, said, "Otto had the rare ability to remain calm under pressure. He inspired and motivated us to always to accept the most difficult challenges. His efforts ensured that canoeists from all over the world wanted to come and compete in Duisburg. The worldwide recognition for the Duisburg organisers and Duisburg regatta course is a credit to him and will remain his legacy."

"Otto leaves a gap that we can not just close. I believe that Otto would wish we go on, even if thought to future competitions in Duisburg without Otto are inconceivable at the moment."

Otto Schulte was much beloved and highly respected in the worldwide canoe family. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.