Hamish Kerr secured New Zealand’s second gold medal in as many days at the World Athletic Championships on Tuesday, winning the men’s high jump with a remarkable leap of 2.36 metres.
This achievement follows Geordie Beamish’s unexpected victory in the men’s 3,000m steeplechase just a day earlier.
Kerr, the reigning Olympic champion, delivered an impressive performance, fending off strong competition to take the top spot. South Korea’s Sanghyeok Woo finished in silver position, clearing a height of 2.34 metres.
In a dramatic finale, Woo attempted to elevate the challenge by skipping a height of 2.36 metres, with the bar subsequently raised to 2.38 metres. However, he was unsuccessful in his attempts, allowing Kerr to revel in his victory as he sprinted around the track, receiving a warm reception from the enthusiastic crowd at the National Stadium.
Czech athlete Jan Stefela claimed the bronze medal, achieving a height of 2.31 metres, and secured the podium spot on countback against Ukraine’s Oleh Doroshchuk.
With two golds in as many days, New Zealand athletes are certainly making their mark at this year’s World Championships.
