Last week, Jake Wightman celebrated a milestone birthday with little fanfare, a common scenario when it falls amidst the busy outdoor athletics season. “It’s a tough number, so I can’t say I was eagerly anticipating it,” Wightman remarked with a chuckle. “It’s always tricky in July because you can’t really celebrate. I’ll plan something for the off-season when I can actually enjoy and relax.”
While turning 30 might not seem extraordinary, it does highlight the relentless passage of time. Now recovered from an injury-ridden 2023, the former world champion is gearing up for his second Olympic Games, fully aware that it could be his last.
Unlike some athletes who believe they can make up for lost time due to injuries later in their careers, Wightman is focused on maximizing the present. Achieving gold in Paris would surpass the thrill of defeating top competitors, including Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen, over 1500m in 2022. Wightman remains optimistic about creating more memorable moments in the future.
“Age in sport varies greatly depending on one’s starting point and journey,” he explained. “Now that I’m 30, I realize I’m not at the beginning of my career anymore. But we don’t know when it will end.
“In 2022, I was rarely the oldest on the start list. This year, though, I often am, and I think, ‘Wow, that happened fast!’ Missing last year’s season put added pressure on making 2024 successful, especially since it’s the Olympics. I don’t know how many more opportunities I’ll have at global championships. I’ve been on teams since 2014 and had a smooth career until last year, so I can’t complain too much.
“When I reflect on my career, 2023 won’t be a major focus. I’ll remember the positives and quickly forget the negatives.”
Following Wightman’s remarkable win in Eugene two years ago, it seemed unimaginable that Ingebrigtsen would defend his 1500m title in Paris without Wightman as a contender. However, injuries have shifted Wightman to compete in the 800m instead, while fellow Scots Josh Kerr and Neil Gourley take on the 1500m. Though it wasn’t his initial plan, Wightman is determined to make the most of this new path.
“Being selected was a huge relief,” he confessed. “I didn’t want to consider the alternative of not going at all. Competing in the 800m has greater implications for my career. If I perform well, it will show my versatility across events, which is exciting.
“If I make it to the final, I’ll aim to win. Being less familiar to my competitors might give me an edge. In the final, there are eight athletes, and three win medals. Those are good odds, but reaching the final is the hardest part. That’s why I need to treat every round as if it’s the final.”
Missing out on the 1500m will be challenging. “Watching that final the day before my race will be tough,” he admitted. “But there’s nothing I can do. My body failed me when I needed it most. I still have a chance to achieve my goals, just in a different event.”
Wightman is among nine Scots in the GB athletics team, and with Kerr and Laura Muir expected to compete for medals, he believes this is a golden era for Scottish middle-distance running.
“We have many athletes performing well,” said the Edinburgh AC athlete. “The focus isn’t just on one person. I hope people across Scotland recognize our success in middle-distance athletics. We’re a powerhouse, and that’s exciting. These Games are another opportunity to showcase our talent.”
Wightman also features in a new behind-the-scenes documentary, providing insight into the dedication required to reach the top. With £300 million of National Lottery investment supporting over 1,100 elite athletes, Wightman believes the program shows lottery players how their money is utilized.
“It was a great opportunity to showcase ourselves as more than just athletes,” he added. “We had cameras with us at training camps and at home. I hope viewers realize they play a small part in our journey. If you buy a National Lottery ticket, you’ve contributed to our success by allowing us to train full-time. I’ll miss the premiere since we’ll be away, but I’m sure my girlfriend and sister will give me plenty of feedback on how I come across!”
