Former world champion Julius Yego has made an impressive mark at the Paris 2024 Olympics, qualifying for the men’s javelin throw final with a stunning season-best throw of 85.97 meters. The 2016 silver medalist hit past the qualification mark of 84.00 meters on his third attempt, securing his place in the final set for Thursday, July 8.
Yego’s journey to the final was a testament to his resilience and determination. He began his qualifying round with a throw of 78.84 meters, followed by an improvement to 80.75 meters. It was on his third attempt that Yego sealed his spot in the final with a remarkable throw of 85.97 meters, showcasing his skill and experience.
Reflecting on his performance, Yego expressed his satisfaction with his preparation and execution. “Today I woke up in very good condition and also had a perfect feeling during the warm-up. The body is responding very well and I hope I will perform well on Thursday,” he said. Yego credited the Miramas camp for his readiness, emphasizing the positive impact it had on his performance. “The Miramas camp really helped me and I came here with the best feeling. I believe the body is ready to throw again.”
Yego’s achievement is notable given his recent struggles to hit the 85-meter mark over the past year. Despite these challenges, he qualified for the Olympics through the World Athletics rankings, demonstrating his consistent performance on the international stage. Joining him in the final are Julian Weber and Jakub Vadlejch, both of whom also breached the qualification standard of 84.00 meters at the Stade de France on Tuesday.
With the qualification round behind him, Yego now shifts his focus to the final. “My target was to get the automatic qualification to the final. Now it switches to the final where I believe if everything goes well, I can improve the Rio silver medal,” he stated. His confidence and determination are evident as he aims for a podium finish.
Yego’s journey in the sport has been marked by perseverance and passion. The 2015 world champion has faced numerous challenges but remains motivated by his love for javelin. “I love the sport a lot and that’s why despite many challenges I always stay motivated,” he explained. His dedication serves as an inspiration to many young athletes in Kenya.
In addition to his personal ambitions, Yego is also focused on the future of javelin in Kenya. He urges young Kenyans to take up the sport and highlights the potential for success with adequate support. “I urge many young Kenyans to join javelin. I’ve done my part and soon I will be exiting the stage, but when I look back and think we have promising javelin throwers around. They are there but the level is not where it should be,” he noted.
Yego calls on corporates and the government to provide the necessary support to develop javelin and other sports in Kenya. “I also urge corporates and the government to support this sport. Maybe lack of support is what is keeping many young Kenyans away from the sport. We can do well as a country in sports like javelin and sprints,” he emphasized.
As Yego prepares for the final, his journey serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience, passion, and support in achieving success. His season-best throw has not only secured his place in the Olympics final but also inspired a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams.
