Ukrainian high jumper Yaroslava Mahuchikh, the world record holder, has captured Olympic gold at the Stade de France with her unique habit of lying under a green bedroll between jumps. This intriguing method has sparked curiosity and admiration worldwide.
Mahuchikh’s unusual routine, which involves counting numbers or watching clouds while lying down, has become a signature part of her preparation. She began this practice in 2018 after winning the Youth Olympic Games. “I feel comfortable when I lay and sometimes I can watch the clouds,” she explained to TIME Magazine. “It’s like, relax, [and] not think about that I’m at [the] stadium.”
Her coach, Serhii Stepanov, believes the bedroll helps prevent blood from pooling in her legs. Mahuchikh always carries a yoga mat, sleeping bag, and spare socks to competitions, or wears a hoodie. She recommends this approach for comfort in various weather conditions.
“It’s really difficult [to wear spikes],” she said in a press conference. “But I advise all girls to have this mat and blanket because it’s really comfortable to lay on in different weather. When it’s raining, it’s OK. It never gets hot because it’s a camping blanket.”
Beyond her unique relaxation technique, Mahuchikh’s victory holds deep emotional significance. She fled Ukraine due to the ongoing Russian invasion, which has claimed the lives of nearly 500 Ukrainian athletes. “Almost 500 sportsmen have died in this war,” she said. “They will never compete. They will never celebrate. They will never fill this atmosphere. I’m happy with the gold medal. It’s really for all of them.”
Australia’s Nicola Olyslagers won the silver medal in the high jump, while Eleanor Patterson of Australia and Ukraine’s Iryna Gerashchenko shared the bronze.
Mahuchikh’s gold medal is a testament to her resilience, determination, and the power of finding comfort in unconventional ways. Her unique bedroll routine has not only helped her achieve Olympic glory but has also inspired countless others to embrace their own unique paths to success.
