Ukrainian high jumper Yaroslava Mahuchikh and Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis were honored as Europe’s top athletes at the 2024 Golden Tracks Awards in Skopje on Saturday. Both athletes achieved remarkable milestones this year, with Mahuchikh setting a new world record and Duplantis continuing to push the limits in pole vault.
Mahuchikh’s Record-Breaking Season
Yaroslava Mahuchikh’s season has been one of historic success. In July, she shattered the women’s high jump world record by clearing 2.10 meters at the Diamond League meet in Paris, surpassing Stefka Kostadinova’s 1987 record by a centimeter. Mahuchikh capped off her season with a gold medal at the Paris Olympics, solidifying her dominance in the event.
Mahuchikh’s nomination was a close competition, with contenders including Dutch sprinter Femke Bol, a specialist in the 400m and 400m hurdles, and British 800m Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson.
Duplantis Soars to New Heights
Armand Duplantis also earned Olympic gold this year, marking another successful season that saw him further extend his own world record. In August, at an event in Chorzów, Poland, he cleared 6.26 meters, pushing the boundaries of his sport yet again. The Swedish star, known for his consistency and dedication, continues to inspire young pole vaulters worldwide.
Duplantis faced tough competition from Norwegian distance runner Jakob Ingebrigtsen and Greek long jumper Miltiadis Tentoglou, both celebrated for their achievements in middle and long-distance running and the long jump, respectively.
Rising Stars Recognized
The Golden Tracks Awards also honored rising talents in European athletics. Serbian javelin thrower Adriana Vilagos and Dutch middle-distance runner Niels Laros were named Europe’s top emerging athletes, reflecting their bright futures in track and field.
Since the Golden Tracks’ inception in 1993, no Polish athlete has claimed the top award. The previous two editions saw wins by Bol and Ingebrigtsen, further highlighting the competitive nature of European athletics.
