(es) - Björn Kierspel resigns at the age of 33 and after more than 60 World Cup races. “Sometime other things in life become more important than trying to be the fastest. It’s also getting more and more difficult to have enough time for top-class sport, especially in combination with full-time job”, Kierspel elaborates about his retirement: “During the past years I had to work in the firm from Monday till Thursday, did some work out in the evenings in the gym and from Friday till Sunday I had to practice on the track.” There were hardly any periods of rest and so the power faded. The German could only practice on ice between Christmas and New Year’s Day – when the company had its annual shutdown. So he was always chasing his best shape. “But I’m a fighter. And it was worth it.” Especially on February 12, 2011: Kierspel and his doubles partner Christian Wichan celebrated their one and only World Cup victory at the home competition in Unterammergau (GER). “This victory was like a victory at the World Championships for us. Not only because we could win at home, but also because we celebrated the victory right after the World Championships 2011 where we still had to start handicapped after Christian’s hand injury.” Because of injuries Björn Kierspel matured and he learnt from them. What he has definitely learnt from his career as sportsman: “The meaning of teamwork and precision and – especially from the experience in the doubles races – the great feeling when you can celebrate successes together.” Even though Kierspel won’t take part in the competitions any more, he “will follow the competitions in natural track luge very interested, but I will also spend more time for hobbies now – like singing for example.” He might also return as an official. “In my opinion this sport is very profitable: for winter sport regions, media and sponsors. And I hope, that in future natural track luge will gain more popularity.”