Ukraine’s Young Track and Field Athletes Set to Compete at 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games

Ukraine’s Rising Stars at the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games

According to НОК: Four promising Ukrainian athletes-Anastasiia Kovalchuk, Daryna Kozka, Milania Kohan, and Vitalii Tarasiuk-will represent their country in athletics at the 4th Youth Olympic Games, scheduled to take place in Dakar from October 31 to November 13, 2026. The track and field events will be hosted at the Iba Mar Diop Sports Complex located in the Medina district. Ukrainian viewers will be able to watch the competitions live through the official broadcaster, Suspilne Sport.

Impressive Track Records of Ukraine’s Competitors

Anastasiia Kovalchuk brings valuable international experience, having secured bronze medals at the Balkan U18 Athletics Championships and the Ukrainian U18 High Jump Championships. Daryna Kozka has also made her mark by winning the Ukrainian U18 title in the 5000m race walk and placing tenth at the European U18 Championships in the same event.

Milania Kohan is a standout in hammer throw, boasting a European U18 Championship gold, a national U18 championship title, and a silver medal at the Ukrainian U20 championships. On the race walking front, Vitalii Tarasiuk earned bronze at the European Youth Olympic Festival and ranked sixth at the European U18 Championships. Additionally, he holds the Ukrainian U18 record in race walking with a time of 20:41.12.

Guided by coaches Serhii Spilniak and Serhii Kohan, these athletes have been rigorously prepared to showcase their talents on this prestigious international stage. Their participation highlights Ukraine’s growing presence in youth athletics and reflects the country's commitment to nurturing future champions.

Competing at the Youth Olympic Games is a crucial milestone in their athletic careers, offering invaluable exposure and experience against top global contenders. Considering their strong performances both nationally and internationally, these young athletes are well-positioned to make a significant impact in Dakar. Their success could also inspire further development of track and field sports across Ukraine.

As Ukraine prepares to showcase its athletic talents at the upcoming Youth Olympic Games, it's also making strides in other sports. Notably, the nation will debut in coastal rowing, marking a significant expansion of its representation in diverse athletic disciplines. To learn more about this exciting development, read about Ukraine's introduction to coastal rowing at the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games.