Joel Clarke-Khan: High jumper hails UK title as best moment of career

Worcester high jumper Joel Clarke-Khan has described winning the UK title in Birmingham on Saturday as the best moment of his career.

The 26-year-old trailed heading into the final round at the Alexander Stadium, but equalled his personal best of 2.27m to win with the final jump of the competition.

It was the fourth outdoor title of his career, but his first since 2023 after 18 months blighted by injury.

“I was talking to my mum and she asked if that was the best moment of my career so far, and I think maybe it was,” Clarke-Khan told BBC Hereford and Worcester.

“Mainly because it was a jump to overtake first place, final jump of the competition, equal PB, great stadium, British Championships, I couldn’t ask for more really.

“I was feeling pretty good and would have liked to have a go at 2.30 and just see what would happen, but I think we can save that for another day now.”

Toe problems had curtailed Clarke-Khan’s progress after winning three UK crowns between 2020 and 2023, but he has rediscovered his peak form, having also won the national indoor title in February.

Clarke-Khan admitted the lure of a home European Championships, back at the Alexander Stadium in August, had been a big spur.

“I’ve been training in Birmingham and looking out of the door at the track here thinking, ‘This is where the Europeans are, this is my home, this is where I want to be,'” he said.

“And now I’ve done it, I’ve got the selection. So I will be here so long as I stay healthy and I get the opportunity to shine in front of lots of family and friends.”