Breyton Poole appeals to Athletics SA and SASCOC for support to compete in Europe

The 25-year-old Cape Town-born athlete needs to clear 2.33 metres to book his place at what would be his first major global championship.

Despite competing at an elite level since 2016, Poole has yet to make it to the Olympic Games or World Championships.  

 "We often feel that the high jump is overlooked and that we, as athletes, are not given the recognition we deserve. We are calling on SASCOC and ASA to support us by creating a dedicated jumpers’ group.There is incredible talent in this discipline, and with the right backing and opportunities to train together, we can achieve great things,” Poole said to SABC Sport.

“I work part-time jobs to try and raise the funds I need to compete in Europe. High jump is still very much alive in South Africa, but we don’t get the same level of support as track events.

“Support from Athletics South Africa (ASA) would make a huge difference – it would allow me to get to Europe earlier and stay longer. I’m not a sponsored athlete, and that’s one of my biggest challenges. Having a support system and sponsors behind me would help me go much further.”

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Despite being one of the shortest athletes in the high jump, the Boland athlete is frequently asked why he chose the event.

But instead of seeing his height as a disadvantage, it motivates him to work twice as hard.

“We put in a lot of effort, and support from local structures and the government would go a long way in helping us progress. I’m aiming to qualify for the World Championships this year. I also work part-time as a construction supervisor, so balancing work, training, and gym after a long day is tough on the body,” he explained.

Poole is confident he can clear the qualifying mark this year. “The goal is to qualify for the World Championships, so I’m saving up to head to Europe at the end of May and hopefully compete in some good meets over there,”

“I’m not sure about the rankings, but I believe I have a good chance.

My main focus is to get the automatic qualifying mark first, and if not, then I’ll rely on world rankings. But to do that, we need support.

Clearing 2.33 metres is a big ask, but nothing is impossible. I’ve proven time and again that if you put in the work, your moment will come,” he added.