As our President Sergey Bubka celebrates his 60th birthday, it is a perfect time to reflect on his remarkable sports achievements in pole vault on an international stage and his role as a sports administrator have been equally impressive over the years.

Sergey Bubka’s sports achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. As a pole vaulter, he dominated the sport for over a decade, setting an astonishing 35 world records. His ability to consistently push the boundaries of human performance made him a true legend in the field. Bubka’s most notable achievement came in 1994 when he became the first person to clear the height of 6.15 meters, a record that stood unbroken until September 2020.

Beyond his individual sports accomplishments, he has played and still plays a crucial role in the sports administration in several roles and organisations; seventeen years as President of the Olympic Committee of Ukraine, as a member of the International Olympic Committee, member of the Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee, as Commission Chair of the International Olympic Committee, as Senior Vice President of World Athletics for sixteen years and currently the President of our Board at the International Masters Games Association.

His vision and dedication have helped promote and organise our prestigious events for Masters athletes, providing a platform for older athletes to showcase their skills in the ultimate combination and spirit of competition and camaraderie.

He has been a source of inspiration and pride for the Ukrainian people, representing their country with honour and distinction on the international stage. Sergey Bubka’s dedication to his sport and his unwavering commitment to fair play and integrity have made him a role model for aspiring athletes in Ukraine and beyond, which earned him the title of Hero of Ukraine.

His dedication, passion, and unwavering pursuit of excellence serve as an unwavering inspiration to athletes and sports enthusiasts around the world.