Sun Jul 19 2026

🇬🇧 WHAT. A. PERFORMANCE. 🤯🥇

At just 16 years old, Sam James produced one of the greatest performances in British age-group high jump history to win gold in Rieti, Italy.

James smashed his recorded personal best by an incredible 16cm, soaring to 2.25m to claim the European U18 title. His winning jump was not only a championship record but also a world-leading mark for the age group, as he won by a remarkable 11cm.

On an unforgettable day, he cleared PB after PB at 2.15m, 2.18m, 2.21m, 2.23m and 2.25m, equalling Steve Smith’s long-standing British U18 record and obliterating the previous championship best of 2.18m.

Sam James:
“The under-18 record was 2.18m so I went for that. Clearing all these heights is the best ever feeling. Plus doing it at such a big event representing my country is simply amazing.

“I saw a few videos of my jumps and I knew I should go on. I also have a good feeling of my body and I felt so smooth during all those jumps – I simply had to continue.

“The best part of the championships is having all my friends around me, that is the main part.

“I had two coaches today – one from the British team who helped me with ice and cooling and my main coach with whom I went through ups and downs and injuries.”

An unforgettable performance. The future is incredibly bright. 🌟🇬🇧