Jumping higher than your mateโs excuses โ Hamish Kerr clinches Olympic gold in Paris! ๐ณ๐ฟ๐
In a spectacular showdown at the Paris 2024 Olympics, New Zealand's Hamish Kerr delivered a breathtaking performance in the men's high jump. With arms outstretched and a heart full of determination, Kerr not only cleared 2.36 meters but did so amidst intense pressure that saw him face off against American rival Shelby McEwen in a nail-biting jump-off. The crowd at Stade de France witnessed the audacity of talent and dedication as Kerr solidified his place in Olympic history, finishing his night a proud gold medalist. The gripping final played out with Kerr and McEwen both achieving impressive regular jumps, yet finding themselves neck-and-neck on countback due to missed attempts. In a thrilling concert of speed and agility, the Kiwi leaped into the air, defying gravity and expectations alike. Just hours before, his fellow compatriots Dame Lisa Carrington and Lydia Ko had already bagged gold medals, setting the tone for a triumphant night for New Zealand. Hamish's victory is a cherry on top of an already delicious Olympic cake for Kiwi fans. Hamish Kerr's dramatic win not only brought joy to New Zealanders watching at home but echoed around the globe. Sparking joyous celebrations at home, keen onlookers shared each tantalizing moment of the final on social media as their beloved athlete soared to new heights. With a total of three gold medals claimed by the New Zealand team within hours, the momentum was unmistakable, igniting a sense of national pride that resonated through every household and pub from Auckland to Dunedin. As we bask in the glory of Kerr's achievement, itโs important to note that he is not new to the spotlight. This Olympic gold medal is a testament to his countless hours of hard work and resilience. Interestingly, if you throw a topology map at the high jump record books, you'll see that the world record stands at 2.45 meters, held by the legendary Javier Sotomayor. But whether or not Kerr sets his sights on this lofty goal, his Olympic story has already captured hearts. Who would've thought that high jumping could feel so much like a superhero movie come to life? All we know is that with Hamish Kerr in the sky, the future for New Zealand athletics glows brighter than a gold medal!
Hamish Kerr won the title in a dramatic jump-off, just hours after Dame Lisa Carrington and Lydia Ko won gold overnight. Follow RNZ's live updates.
By Kris Shannon in Paris Arms outstretched, gliding across the grass inside Stade de France, Hamish Kerr reached midfield before bowing to the crowd and...
The New Zealander cleared 2.34m after misses from American Shelby McEwen, who took silver. Qatar's Mutaz Essa Bashim claimed the bronze.
Kerr and McEwen both managed bests of 2.36 metres in regular competition, but could not be separated on countback of missed jumps.
New Zealand's Hamish Kerr won gold in the men's Olympic high jump on Saturday with a best effort of 2.36 metres after a long and gruelling final, ...
Hamish Kerr has claimed gold for New Zealand in the men's high jump, clearing 2.36m in a jump off with American Shelby McEwen.
He bagged the gold after a dramatic jump-off with American Shelby McEwen.