Greek pole vaulter Emmanouil Karalis delivered a historic moment for Greece, clinching the nation’s first—and only—medal at the European Indoor Athletics Championships in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, on Sunday March 9.
The Olympic bronze medalist shared the gold with Dutch athlete Menno Vloon, as both cleared 5.90 meters and recorded identical attempts, resulting in a tie for first place.
Karalis, Greece’s top pole vaulter, had needed just two jumps—clearing 5.65m and 5.75m—to secure his spot in the championship final. A total of 11 athletes advanced to Sunday’s showdown, with seven clearing 5.75m and four more progressing with 5.65m.
Having posted a season-best 6.02m on February 28, the Paris Olympic medalist entered the competition as the gold-medal favorite—a prediction he lived up to with a remarkable performance.
The Greek athlete began his competition at 5.60m, clearing it on his first attempt. He then skipped 5.70m and successfully cleared 5.80m. However, he faced challenges at 5.85m, failing twice before making a flawless third attempt.
Karalis soared over 5.90m on his first try, keeping his medal hopes alive. At 5.95m, both he and Dutch competitor Vloon struggled, recording three unsuccessful attempts each. With Norway’s Sondre Guttormsen unable to clear 6.00m, Karalis and Vloon opted to share the gold, capping off an unforgettable final.
