Kaimar Vagul achieves career-best, reaches podium at Summer Grand Prix

Estonian ski jumper Kaimar Vagul achieved a career-best result, securing a second-place podium finish at the Summer Grand Prix held in Wisla, Poland. The 19-year-old athlete delivered a strong performance, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.

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After the first successful jump, I had a real adrenaline rush. Upon entering the locker room, I couldn't yet dream of reaching the podium, I just tried to enjoy and get rid of the nervousness.

Vagul's impressive jumps measured 136 meters in the first round, earning him 135 points, and 131 meters in the second round for 125.5 points. His combined score of 260.5 points placed him just behind Japan's Naoki Nakamura, with Slovenia's Rok Oblak taking third place.

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The emotions were mega! I think I've never shouted so much after a jump as I did. I couldn't believe I was leading the competition for a moment as the second-to-last jumper. I am truly happy with the second place achieved.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Vagul described the experience as a "mega" thrill. He admitted to shouting with joy after his first jump, which momentarily put him in the lead. "I couldn't believe I was leading the competition for a moment as the second-to-last jumper," he said. "I am truly happy with the second place achieved."

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The key to the great result was primarily self-confidence. [...] Today I managed to improve myself.

The young athlete attributed his success to a newfound self-confidence, stemming from practice sessions and previous competitions. "Today I managed to improve myself," Vagul stated, referencing a 15th-place finish in the previous day's event. He also noted his positive experience with the Wisla venue and the Polish fans, looking forward to the next event in Courchevel, France.

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I like the Polish fans and they like me! The hill also suited me very well.