His record is 2 meters and 45 centimeters. But it is also the world record for high jump. For 30 years. The others have only come closer and there is still no glimpse on the horizon who could exceed this measure. Javier Sotomayor, Cuban, born in the province of Matanzas, is 55 years old and is naturally an icon of world sport, unanimously considered the greatest high jumper of all time. Sotomayor lives between Cuba and Spain, trains his son, who is already more than a promise. In Havana, in the Miramare district, the former Olympian runs a renowned club. His name? 2 and 45. Needless to say.
A record that has stood for 30 years. Did he expect it?
“Obviously I'm glad of that, but to tell the truth I didn't expect it to last so long. In any case, sooner or later someone will cross this measure and I will be the first to be happy about it. Even if I realize that it is difficult and it is an important obstacle to overcome. Even psychological."
Is there currently anyone who could break this record?
«There are excellent jumpers, of great international level, like your Timperi or the Qatari Barshim, but at the moment they seem a bit far away. Maybe then they'll prove me wrong and I'll be happy about it».
You won one Olympics, Barcelona 1992, but you could have won two more. Regrets?
“Cuba did not participate in these demonstrations. But I don't get into political issues that don't belong to me. In my long career I have had great satisfactions, I have won everything there was to win and I am grateful to my country».
But in Barcelona it was tough.
«Winning an Olympics is never easy. You play everything in a race and stress can sometimes play tricks on you. I succeeded and for me, for Cuba, it was an enormous joy».
What is the state of Cuban sport?
«Cuban sport is always a beautiful reality. Even if he is currently experiencing a difficult moment, which reflects the delicate moment that the country is going through. But we will know how to get out of it. As always".
