Woman
Interview with Cyprus’s Female High Jump Star
At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Elena Kulichenko's journey to the high jump final has become Cyprus’s standout moment. As the first Cypriot woman to reach an Olympic track and field final, her story is a powerful blend of athletic achievement, personal triumph, and deep connection to her adopted homeland.
How did your high jump career start?
Elena Kulichenko: "I was the fastest in my elementary school, so I decided to do athletics, then I started trying different events, and liked high jump the most. Just had so much fun with it, and still do!"
What are the key milestones in your high jump career?
Elena Kulichenko: "I think it is me starting competing for Cyprus and going to the University of Georgia. Both of these factors gave me new perspectives on sport, I started enjoying it again. Because I wanted to quit it back in the days."
What does reaching the Olympic final mean to you?
Elena Kulichenko: "It was dream come true! If someone would tell me that I’ll be the Olympic finalist few years ago, I’d say that it is madness."
How does it feel to make history for Cyprus?
Elena Kulichenko: " I’m very very proud and honoured! It is amazing journey that just started, and I thank Cyprus and my Cypriot supporters so much."
After Paris, what are your future plans in athletics?
Elena Kulichenko: "Just be a better version of myself everyday. Achieve higher results, more titles and medals!"
What's one personal thing we should know about you?
Elena Kulichenko: "That I am very kind person. A lot of people have told me that before they met me though that I am mean and arrogant. And every single one of them changed their mind after they got to know me."
Photos: Fotorunners
Elena Kulichenko on Instagram
