The International Rafting Federation is very sad to hear of the untimely and sudden loss of Global Association of International Sports Federations (GAISF) President, Mr. Patrick Baumann last Friday. The IRF would like to offer all staff, and members of GAISF our deepest condolences. Our thoughts are with Mr. Baumann’s wife, children and family.
By all accounts, Mr. Baumann was widely considered one of the most influential sports leaders of his generation; an inspirational leader whose vision, drive and enthusiasm characterised his work on behalf of GAISF, the IOC, Fiba, and sport worldwide. It is difficult to imagine what a shock this must be to all who knew him personally.
The IRF recognises him as the driving force behind the transformation of GAISF following his election in 2016. These visionary changes are directly responsible for the opportunity that the IRF has been given to apply for GAISF Observer Status, and to eventually join our kindred sport federations as a member of the GAISF fraternity. For this, the IRF shall remain eternally grateful, and it is with great regret that our federation did not have the good fortune to work with Mr. Baumann as a GAISF member.
With our sincere sympathies and on behalf of all IRF members,
Joseph Willis Jones
International Rafting Federation – President
