Samson Ojuka clinched Kenya’s first medal at the ongoing Paris Paralympic Games on Tuesday evening. The final-year law student at Kenyatta University made history by securing a silver medal in the men’s long jump with a record-breaking leap of 6.20 meters at the Stade de France.
Ojuka’s achievement is not just a personal triumph but a significant milestone for Kenya. His jump surpassed the previous African record of 6.05 meters set by Andrea Dalle Ave of South Africa in 2015. This silver medal is Kenya’s first field event medal since the 2008 Beijing Paralympics when Mary Nakhumicha won silver in the javelin F57/58.
The 22-year-old athlete’s journey to the podium was marked by dramatic highs and lows. After struggling with earlier jumps, Ojuka’s fourth attempt proved to be his best. Initially, he had leaped 5.83 meters in his second jump, which placed him in second position temporarily. Despite a setback with a third jump of 5.88 meters dropping him to sixth, Ojuka made a spectacular comeback with his final jump of 6.20 meters. This performance secured him the silver medal and elevated him above Brazilian competitor Cardo Evangelista, who also recorded a distance of 6.20 meters but was edged out on countback.
Ojuka’s silver medal is a testament to his unwavering dedication and the rigorous training he underwent leading up to the Games. Under the guidance of his coach Henry Nzungi, a seasoned Paralympian himself, Ojuka focused on enhancing his strength and conditioning in Nairobi. Upon joining Team Kenya in Compiegne, France, on August 8, the training shifted towards perfecting his technique on the runway, including his takeoff, flight, and landing.
“I am simply over the moon,” Ojuka said in an emotional statement following the event. “I want to dedicate this medal to all those who have supported me and the millions of Kenyans who watched, especially my family.” His elation was palpable as he reflected on his journey and the significance of this achievement.
The victory is particularly poignant given Ojuka’s background. Born with Erb’s Palsy, a condition affecting his right hand, he has overcome substantial physical and personal challenges to reach this point. His success in Paris not only showcases his athletic prowess but also serves as an inspiration for many.
Ojuka’s path to the Paralympic podium has been paved with persistent efforts. He previously competed in three world championships—2019 Dubai, 2023 Paris, and 2024 Kobe, Japan—without securing a medal. His sixth-place finish with a personal best of 5.73 meters in Kobe this May highlighted his potential but also underscored the challenges he faced.
“This one will take time to settle,” Ojuka remarked, expressing his profound sense of accomplishment. The silver medal not only brings personal satisfaction but also lifts the national pride of Kenya, a country that had yet to win a medal from track events in this edition of the Paralympics.
Ojuka’s story is one of triumph over adversity. From playing as a striker for Maseno School to transitioning into athletics at Kenyatta University in 2018, his journey has been marked by determination and resilience. His performance in Paris is a testament to his hard work and the support of his coach and the Kenyan sports community.
As Kenya celebrates Ojuka’s historic achievement, his success at the Paris Paralympics stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration. With his silver medal, Samson Ojuka has not only set a new African record but has also etched his name in the annals of Kenyan sports history.
