07/12/2025
R.I.P.
We hebben heel veel prachtige reportages van onze deelnames aan internationale wedstrijden .
Een topfotograaf, we zullen hem missen.
I am working with words, and words fail me.
Ulrich Faßbender, one of the most popular, charismatic and most excellent photographers in rhythmic gymnastics passed away.
His passing was sudden and completely unexpected. His wife Mónika announced the sad news: our heart goes out to her and the whole Faßbender family.
The world of RG lost someone who portrayed it with artistry, deep respect and lightheartedness, with humour always being present.
I believe it radiated from Ulrich himself: a kind, highly generous, well-traveled, devoted family man, who loved life, new adventures, beauty, music, artistry and skill… it's no coincidence that he portrayed rhythmic gymnastics so amazingly with his photography.
Wherever he went, he won friends. Wherever he went, he took stunning photos. Once I told him: you show the gymnasts how they wanted to be seen. In the best possible light. I wonder how many athletes will look back on those photos with pride as the years roll by. How many of them will have them framed.
I believe they carry a bit of Ulrich's legacy. It was a fleeting moment in their routine or training, but it was caught, expertly frozen in a frame, showing grace, beauty, strength and artistry. And the one sitting behind the camera took it with artistry and finesse as well. As a "side-job" – for he was a doctor in his beloved Leverkusen.
The world of rhythmic gymnastics has lost a great friend, a great photographer and a touch of colour today. His family and friends lost a wonderful person. But Ulrich's joy of life, words and photos will live on in everyone who was touched by them.
Thank you for everything! Journey well!🖤