The Russian track and field athletes are still at the doldrums regarding their participation decision in the Paris Olympics and other international competitions. However, Elena Kulichenko might feel fortunate in that perspective. Despite holding a Russian U18 National Outdoor Championship, the athlete still dreams of participating in international contests, and if luck prevails, then in the Olympics.

The courtesy goes to her late-received Cypriot nationality and American training. However, that has been the 21-year-old track and field athlete’s journey so far in a nutshell. There are still many more intrigues in it. 

The track and field stint for the Georgia Bulldogs 

Recently in a special interview, the Odintsovo-born athlete let slip information on her dream and the cooperation she has been enjoying on American soil. Moreover, her words might provide hope to certain athletes who aspire to live their dreams, albeit constraints. Sharing a lengthy and pivotal relationship with the University of Georgia, Elena Kulichenko hails her program for providing her momentum. In the meantime, the high jumper also mentioned the difference between the track and programs between the USA and Russia. 

“The biggest difference here is the teamwork aspect and the closeness of the team. When going to big events like Nationals or SECs, you obviously think about yourself but also about the team. It’s weird having an individual sport like track have such a team connection,” she said in the conversation. However, according to Elena, the cultural differences between the nations might have a say in it. 

“Coming from Moscow…I like the closeness of the community,” she supported the American version. On the other hand, the European U23 champion also added about her goals, donning the Bulldog’s jersey. In that confession, the athlete said, “I want to win the NCAA title.  Just to perform better over the years, jump higher and higher. Also, one personal goal that I have is to jump 2 meters (6 feet, 6 ¾ inches).”

However, in the annual resolution, Elena Kulichenko aims to earn indoor and outdoor titles and ultimately reach the Olympics, participating from Cyprus. In this process, she wants enjoyment to be her soul saver. The high jumping talent mentioned it previously as well. 

Let the fun part be the soul-saver 

After earning Cypriot citizenship in 2019, the Budapest World Athletics Championship occurred to be Elena’s first major international senior contest. Her performance in Budapest attracted many eyes as she ended her journey after trying a 1.90m jump. But at the same time, the Russian-born athlete had to face the ultimate question of asking her feelings regarding the banning of the Russian athletes from the platform. The high jumper didn’t enter into that discussion. Rather, she expressed her own emotions after celebrating the participation in such a huge platform. 

“The main goal is just to have fun and enjoy the atmosphere… I just gonna enjoy it,” she said in Budapest. Moreover, the track and field sphere in Cyprus seems to be much more suitable for her as the country caters to her smooth services in every way. Now when Paris Olympics trials are around, she will be scratching her legs to test her prowess in the battles.

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