Kenyan javelin star Julius Yego has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his trusted and long-serving javelin, a piece of equipment that played a pivotal role in his illustrious career. In an emotional social media post, the celebrated athlete fondly remembered the javelin’s contributions to his historic achievements. In pictures and video shared by the star, it is evident that the rocket broke, but he did not go to explain the cause.
“So unfortunate today to have lost you my favorite rocket in training, but I hope this will come with blessings in the long run,” Yego wrote. Reflecting on their eight-year partnership, he praised the javelin’s resilience and performance. “It’s been 8 years of sheer dedication to my training and sometimes competitions, and you managed to endure the hard landing on the tough surface. You made me an Olympic silver medalist in Rio 2016 and a multiple African champion, and most importantly, a world champion in Beijing 2015 with an African record of 92.72m. Thank you so much.”
Known as the “YouTube Man” for teaching himself the sport through online videos, Yego’s bond with his equipment goes beyond the ordinary. The javelin in question was instrumental in some of the greatest moments of his career, including his historic gold medal at the 2015 World Championships and his African record-setting throw.
As he retires the javelin to his archives, Yego expressed a mix of gratitude and sadness. “As you go to my archives now, I am excited you were the best friend. You were a lover of long flying. Rest now, my airglider javelin.”
With his trusted equipment out of commission, Yego made a heartfelt appeal for support. “Please, I need someonea well-wisher of any form to sponsor or buy me one or two javelins for use in training now that I have lost this one,” he pleaded.
The javelin in question was a Nordic Sport model, a top-of-the-line choice favored by elite throwers worldwide. As Yego continues his pursuit of excellence, the need for quality equipment remains essential to his training and performance. Fans and fellow athletes have since rallied around the champion, offering words of encouragement and hoping that a sponsor or well-wisher will step forward to aid the javelin
