Kitaguchi Haruka Makes History with Javelin Gold at Paris 2024
Paris, August 10, 2024 – Kitaguchi Haruka has etched her name into the history books as the first Japanese woman to win an Olympic gold medal in the javelin. The 26-year-old achieved this historic feat with her first throw at the Stade de France, landing a season-best distance of 65.80m to secure the top spot.
Kitaguchi’s victory complements her impressive resume, which includes a world title from the 2023 World Championships in Budapest. Her performance in Paris solidifies her as one of the leading figures in the javelin throw.
South Africa’s Jo-Ane van Wyk delivered a notable third-round throw of 63.93m to claim silver, while Czechia’s Nikola Ogrodnikova secured bronze with a best throw of 63.68m. Despite having the second-best throw of the competition, Kitaguchi had already clinched gold by the time she stepped up for her final attempt. The emotional moment saw her tear up and raise her arms in celebration, reflecting the weight of her achievement.
Kitaguchi’s journey to Olympic glory has been marked by a series of significant milestones. She first gained international attention with a victory at the Under-18 World Championships in 2015. Her senior breakthrough came at the 2022 World Championships in Oregon, where she became the first Japanese woman to win a senior global medal in any throwing event by finishing third. She upgraded to gold last year before capping off her remarkable rise with the Olympic title in Paris.
Kitaguchi’s triumph in Paris not only highlights her exceptional talent but also marks a historic moment for Japanese athletics.
