Road to Beijing: Kibwé Johnson

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Kibwe Johnson (17 July 1981) is a hammer thrower. He has represented the USA at the World Championships in Athletics twice (2007 and 2011). He is a three-time medalist at the Pan American Games, having taken silver in 2007 and improved to the gold in 2011 (where he broke the Games record). In 2015 he won again the gold medal at the Pan American Games. He set his personal best of 80,31m (263′ 5″) in 2011. He’s won four of the last fiveUSA Outdoor Championships (2010/ 2nd, 2011/ 1st, 2012/ 1st, 2013/ inj, 2014/ 1st, 2015/ 1st).

2002 64.26m (210′ 10″)
2003 69.11m (226′ 9″)
2004 69.49m (227′ 12″)
2005 78.25m (256′ 9″)
2006 75.32m (247′ 1″)
2007 75.95m (249′ 2″)
2008 75.53m (247′ 10″)
2009 67.80m (222′ 5″)
2010 77.07m (252′ 10″)
2011 80.31m (263′ 6″)
2012 77.17m (253′ 2″)
2013 76.28m (250′ 3″)
2014 74.86m (245′ 7″)
2015 76.95m (252′ 6″)

How has your training been going recently?

My training has been going well of late. Really focusing on technical changes that eliminate the possibility of errors. Attempting to be as efficient as I can with technical changes and consistency in those changes.

Is there anything new you are implementing into your training?

Nothing new. Especially not in the lead up to Worlds. That would be unwise.

What technical issues are you working on?

I had the tendency to start the throw with my feet too wide apart. Also, standing too tall on legs. All of these things make having an efficient entry movement very difficult. Check out my blog at kibwejohnson.com if you’re interested in a deeper explanation on my changes.

Where are you currently training?

I train in Kamloops, BC, Canada.

Will you be attending any training camps at another site? If so, where and when?

Yes, leaving for training camp August 9 in Japan, just outside of Tokyo. Camp opens August 10. I will be there then. I believe leaving for Beijing August 18.

Are you training with your coach on site or long distance?

Dr. Anatoliy Bondarchuk is at training every single day. He will not be in Japan or Beijing, however.

Are you currently working a job? If so, what and how many hours a week?

No. I am fortunate enough where I can do this as my job.

What competitions do you have planned?

After I compete in Beijing, I am immediately returning home to Kamloops. My wife Crystal and I are expecting our second child and the due date is August 24 (I compete 22 and 23). Whoops! We have our annual Throws Fest here in Kamloops. I haven’t ruled out other competitions.

Will any friends or family be travelling to Beijing?
No. But they’re excited to watch online with everyone else!

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