We are saddened to share that USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame member Harry Bjerke passed away on August 11 at the age of 80. Harry dedicated nearly half a century to the U.S. men’s artistic gymnastics program. He was a respected men’s brevet judge for more than 25 years, judging at the 1996, 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games and earning the rank of FIG Technical Expert. He served as the men’s technical director or as a judge at every USA Championships, Olympic and World Championship Trials from 1977 into the 2000s. He also served in these capacities at numerous collegiate events and was an instructor at the USA Continental Judges’ Course on multiple occasions.
From 1987-1996, Harry was president of the National Gymnastics Judges Association, where he was also involved with the organization’s board for more than 25 years. In honor of his dedication to the sport, Harry was inducted into the NGJA Hall of Fame in 1991, and he received USA Gymnastics’ Spirit of the Flame award in 2001, which was presented by the Olympic Athletes’ Council. Harry previously served on the board of USA Gymnastics and was inducted into USAG’s Hall of Fame in 2005. Harry selflessly gave so much to the gymnastics community, and was deeply loved and admired by many around the world.
He is survived by his wife, Maureen.