Jin van der Lee

Jin embarked on his athletic journey at a tender age when he joined his local club team, PAC Rotterdam. Throughout the years, this club has become his second home, fostering his deep involvement. Not only does he coach the U12 athletes, but he is also an integral part of the organizing committee for the annual kids camp. Jin's personal achievements are noteworthy as well. He currently holds the top rank in the Netherlands for the U18 category in high jump and triple jump, and he secures the 4th position in javelin. In the Dutch National Outdoor T&F Championships U18 (2023), Jin claimed three medals. He became a National Champion in high jump, took 2nd place in triple jump, and finished 3rd in javelin.

Jin's commitment to track and field intensified when he turned 12, focusing primarily on hurdling and pole vaulting. However, his passion shifted when he discovered his talent for high jump, a discipline that’s his favorite to this day. At the age of 15, he achieved a significant milestone by clearing a bar higher than his own height, an impressive 1.90 meters. Continuing his progress, at 16 years old, he reached the 2.00-meter mark. Below is a summary of his annual progression:

2018 - 1.55m

2019 - 1.60m

2020 - 1.70m

2021 - 1.90m

2022 - 2.00m

2023 - 2.01m

2024 - 2.01m2024 - 2.07m

As an U16 athlete, Jin also discovered a profound affinity for javelin and triple jump. As he dedicated himself to improve his skills in these events, his personal bests experienced remarkable growth within a year. His javelin throw improved from 50.78 meters (600 grams) to 54.75 meters (700 grams), while his triple jump progressed from 11.96 meters to 13.46 meters between 2021 and 2022. This season indoors (2024) he jumped a 13.99m. 

Jin’s major strengths are his work ethic, dedication, and explosiveness. As a very coachable athlete, he’s eager to learn and continuously strives for improvement. Currently, he focuses on enhancing his technique, recognizing the importance of refining the finer technical aspects alongside his impressive power and speed.

His PBs:

- High jump: 2.07m (2024)

- Triple jump: 13.99m (2024)

- Javelin throw (700 grams): 56.42m (2023)

In the United States, Jin's primary goal revolves around maximizing his athletic career while performing at his very best for his college track team. Track and field holds his utmost passion, fueling his determination to compete at the highest international level. His ultimate aspiration is to participate in International Championships.

Currently enrolled in high school in the Netherlands, Jin is set to graduate in the Spring of 2024. He interested in Mathematics, Biology, and Economics as potential areas of study.