Julius Yego
Julius Yego, also known as the "YouTube Man," is a Kenyan javelin thrower who defied the odds to become one of the world's best in a sport traditionally dominated by Europeans. His unique journey to success began in his hometown of Cheptonon, Kenya, where he lacked proper training facilities, coaching, and equipment. Undeterred, Yego taught himself the techniques of javelin throwing by watching videos of world-class athletes on YouTube, earning his nickname and inspiring countless athletes worldwide.
Yego’s breakthrough came in 2011 when he won gold at the All-Africa Games, setting a new Kenyan national record. His star continued to rise at the 2012 London Olympics, where he became the first Kenyan to compete in the javelin event, finishing an impressive 12th. In 2013, Yego made history by winning Kenya’s first-ever javelin gold at the African Championships, further solidifying his place on the international stage.
His greatest achievement came in 2015 at the World Championships in Beijing, where he threw a stunning 92.72 meters, the longest throw in the world in nearly two decades. This throw not only won him the gold medal but also established him as a world leader in the sport. Yego went on to win silver at the 2016 Rio Olympics, further proving his consistency and tenacity against some of the world’s best throwers.
Yego’s impact extends beyond his medals and records; he is a symbol of determination and self-belief, showing that resourcefulness can overcome a lack of traditional support systems. His journey has inspired many young athletes, particularly in Africa, proving that with hard work, passion, and creativity, it is possible to compete at the highest levels of any sport, regardless of your starting point.
Yego’s unconventional path to success and his reliance on self-motivation, resourcefulness, and an unyielding spirit, serves as a reminder that determination and innovation can lead to extraordinary achievements, even when the odds are stacked against you.
Famous Quote by Julius Yego
My coach is me, and my YouTube videos.
-Julius Yego
