Ukrainian Athlete Who Hid in Cellar During Global Crisis Defies All Odds to Win Gold at World Championships

While Ukraine battles past an ongoing political conflict, its athletes are putting in their best efforts to make their country proud. Earlier last month, Ukraine ended the Paralympics medal tally in 2nd position with 29 medals. However, even now at the World Athletics in Belgrade, Ukrainian athletes are giving back-to-back performances at one of the toughest points in their life. Among the many heroes displaying brilliance is the high jumper, Yaroslava Mahuchikh.

Remarkably, Yaroslava clinched the gold medal in the Indoor High Jump at the Championships. But her journey to Belgrade was not easy at all. So when she laid her hands on the gold medal, it was an altogether different feeling.

Yaroslava Mahuchikh revealed the struggles that she has endured over the past few weeks. She opened up about the long journey that she had to take to even get to Belgrade.

Ukrainian athlete shines in the High Jump at World Athletics

In light of the global crisis, Yaroslava Mahuchikh had to leave her home behind. She knew she had something bigger to do, to represent her country at the World Athletics.

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Her journey to the top in these trying times has been far from easy. Yaroslava revealed how she hid out in a cellar before taking the 2,200km trip to reach Belgrade. It took over 3 days for the current reigning European High Jump champion to complete the trip.

The Women’s High Jump took place on 19th March. Exhibiting class, Yaroslava excelled, taking home the gold medal. She produced a clearance of 2.02, which is one of the best in the World. The Ukrainian athlete received a standing ovation from the crowd, as she stood there proudly, decked in blue and yellow, the colors of her country.

In a post-win interview, she revealed that wanted to show how strong of a country Ukraine is.

“I want to show Ukrainian people are strong people. They never give up. “Our military protect our country at home and today, I protect my country on the track,” said Mahuchikh.

The 20-year-old defied all odds to make it to Belgrade. And in a statement of her strength, her hard work was rewarded with a well-deserved gold medal.

Silver medalist proud to share the podium with Yaroslava Mahuchikh

Australia’s Eleanor Patterson won the Silver medal after Yaroslava. She revealed how proud she felt, sharing the podium with Mahuchikh.

“To win a silver behind Yaroslava makes it even more special,” said Patterson. Showing support and solidarity with those affected, Patterson painted her nails blue and white.

Patterson is extremely proud of Yaroslava, who has overcome immense hardships to get to where she is today. While celebrating her own achievement, she also used her moment to acknowledge Mahuchik’s unimaginable fight for greatness.

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