Kenya’s javelin legend, Julius Yego, is gearing up for his fourth Olympic appearance in Paris, with hopes of adding another medal to his storied career. At 35, Yego’s determination and commitment to excellence remain undiminished as he prepares for the 2024 Olympics.
Focused Preparation in France
Yego is currently training in Miramas, France, as part of Team Kenya’s pre-Olympics preparations. He is concentrating on two critical aspects of his performance: refining his throwing technique and enhancing his speed. “For now, I am working on my throws and speed just to get it right and the distance will automatically come. My target is the qualification to the final,” Yego stated.
Yego’s career is highlighted by numerous achievements, including a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, a world title in 2015, and a Commonwealth Games gold in 2014. As he prepares for Paris, Yego aims to secure a throw of 82 meters to guarantee his place in the finals.
Overcoming Adversity
Qualifying for the Paris Olympics was no easy feat for Yego. He admitted that the journey was fraught with challenges and setbacks. “It was tough qualifying for the Olympics; I had to wait until the last minute to see if I have qualified through the rankings,” Yego revealed. An injury sustained at the Kip Keino Classic earlier in the season added to the difficulties. “This was the most difficult season for me. I started well in March, but I sustained an injury. Although I managed to overcome the challenge and here I am, qualified for the Olympics,” he added.
Despite these challenges, Yego remains focused and optimistic. “I am fit now. I am trying to push the body to the limit so that I get it right at the Olympics. It is the right time to push now and I am feeling well,” he emphasized.
Training Alone
Yego continues to train alone in Miramas, a challenge he has grown accustomed to over the years. “I am used to training alone, but it is difficult not having someone to correct me, especially when you are going to a big competition like this,” he noted. Although a French coach is available, the language barrier poses a challenge, even with the help of a translator.
The facilities in Miramas have been instrumental in Yego’s preparation. “I love Miramas, it has all the javelin facilities, and that is the most important thing for me. The weather is also good, similar to what we will encounter during the games,” he outlined.
A Legacy of Excellence
As Yego looks ahead to the Paris Olympics, he is driven by the desire to add another medal to his illustrious career. “With my age now, if I get an Olympic medal, I will be so happy. My ultimate goal is to win gold, that would see me accomplish my achievements in my career,” he stated.
Yego’s journey from a young athlete in Kapsabet to a world-renowned javelin thrower is a testament to his resilience and dedication. His success has inspired many young athletes in Kenya and beyond.
Concerns for the Future
As Yego contemplates the possibility of Paris being his last Olympics, he expresses concern over the lack of a successor in Kenyan javelin. “If today I decide to quit, we will not have anybody to represent Kenya. I have tried to elevate the game for 16 years now. We have the talent, but the problem is the facilities, and the sport is not cheap; a javelin costs at least [price],” he lamented.
Yego’s dedication to the sport and his efforts to elevate javelin throwing in Kenya have been remarkable. As he heads to Paris, his goal remains clear: to add another medal to his already glittering career and inspire the next generation of Kenyan javelin throwers.
Conclusion
Julius Yego’s journey to the 2024 Paris Olympics is marked by determination, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. As he prepares for his fourth Olympic appearance, Yego remains focused on refining his technique and speed to secure a place in the finals.
Yego’s impact on Kenyan athletics is undeniable, and his legacy as one of the greatest javelin throwers will continue to inspire future generations. As he aims for Olympic glory in Paris, the world will be watching this remarkable athlete strive for another historic achievement.
ALSO READ:Ababu Namwamba: Transforming Kenyan Sports with Visionary Leadership
