New Zealand’s high jump champion Hamish Kerr walked away from the Rome Diamond League held on June 6 with more than just a final placing, gaining valuable lessons.
Though he didn’t top the podium this time, Kerr showed glimpses of his consistent early-season form. He cleared 2.16m, 2.21m, and 2.25m on his first attempts to briefly lead a high-quality field.
The competition in Rome, however, was intense and ultimately it was South Korea’s Sanghyeok Woo who soared to a thrilling victory with a season-best 2.32 meters, beating out Ukraine’s Doroshchuk Oleh and Jamaica’s Romaine Beckford in a nail-biting finish.
Woo, maintaining precision and composure throughout, sealed the win after Doroshchuk failed at 2.30m, before the Korean’s own attempt at 2.34m fell short. The applause that followed his 2.32m clearance marked a triumphant moment in what has been a competitive men’s high jump season.
For Hamish Kerr, who had entered Rome following a string of strong performances, including a Diamond League win in Rabat, the result was a step back in result but a step forward in learning.
“Not quite the result I was hoping for at @goldengala_official but some really good learnings nonetheless,” Kerr posted afterward. “Back to NZ now for a wee tune-up with some really exciting competitions to come 👀”
Momentum Built Early in the Season
Kerr’s season began with promise. He secured a second-place finish in Doha, narrowly beaten by Shelby McEwen. The same rival he edged out in a dramatic jump-off to win Olympic gold in Paris last year.
In Rabat, Kerr claimed his first Diamond League victory of 2025, thanks to a clean scorecard through 2.25m. When no athlete managed to clear 2.28m, he was awarded the win on countback ahead of JuVaughn Harrison (USA) and Yual Reath (AUS).
“Just being patient this season, I feel like I’m building nicely,” Kerr reflected after Rabat. “Each comp we’re learning and developing and pushing a bit deeper into the curve and the run-up…. I’m very happy with where I’m at, obviously wanting a little bit more but that’s the nature of the beast.”
Kerr had earlier announced his participation in Monaco Diamond league where he will return to Herculis EBS on July 11. A meeting that proved pivotal in his 2024 season. Last year, he cleared 2.33m to win at Stade Louis II, setting the tone for his golden Olympic moment just two weeks later in Paris.
