Norway’s rowing icon Olaf Tufte honoured at Horten club memorial

Double Olympic champion Olaf Tufte, who won two gold, one silver and one bronze medals and competed in seven Games, died on 21 July 2026 at age 50 after a cardiac arrest on his farm near Horten.

On Thursday 23 July the Horten Roklubb held a memorial service that began at 17:00 at the club house. Coach Bjørn‑Inge Pettersen, who first trained Tufte, described the event as “incredibly meaningful,” and club chairman Espen Thorsen noted the large turnout and shared grief. At 18:00 the rowers performed a final row on the water, receiving applause from spectators on the quay. The Norwegian flag was flown at half‑mast in respect.

The family announced a funeral at Horten Church on 31 July. Tufte is survived by his wife Aina and their two children. His involvement with Horten Roklubb began when he joined at age 17 and continued after his competitive career.