Every moment matters in our collaboration that explores determination and accomplishment. This is a story of striving for excellence, told by Eton and Mondo Duplantis, Olympic gold medalist and world record holding pole vaulter.
“I think I’ve always been pretty level-headed and don’t get too stressed out by competition. I just think that if you prepare the right way, you should find confidence in that.”
Mondo sits amongst the bleachers. His usual calm expression remains unconcerned as he takes in the surroundings of Stockholm Olympic Stadium.
“I have all the physical requirements. I have all the mental requirements. For me it has never been ‘Why me?’, it has always been ‘Why not me?’”
A flock of seagulls drift with the slow wind. Mondo pays them no mind. He’s only focused on one thing: the track and field. His space.
“I’m not a perfectionist. I don’t strive for perfection per se, I just don’t think it’s attainable. But if you do all the little things right, it all adds up to the result. I just try to be the best version of myself, and I know that won’t necessarily be perfect.”
The weight of the pole feels comfortable in his hands. This is what it all comes down to.
