Delegates and guests that attended the XXXV. ESF Congress in Antalya (TUR) last February 6th, 2010 gave a standing ovation to ESF Secretary General Mr Patrice Bienfait (FRA) when he gave a very emotional goodbye speech at his retirement.

Mr Bienfait who was first elected Vice President in 1990 and Secretary General in 1993 has retired from ESF administrative duties due to health problems after 20 years serving the ESF with passion and loyalty. Mr Bienfait is the first person to become "Member of Honor" in the history of the ESF. ESF President Andre van Overbeek on behalf of the Executive Council and member federations offered the honoree a beautiful watch engraved as a token of gratitude. "The ESF has been my life", Mr Bienfait stated with visible sadness.

Mr Bienfait also received the ISF Medal of Honor presented by ISF President Don Porter (left) and ISF first Vice President Dale McMann (right).