Yago Lamela

Yago Lamela, born on July 24, 1977, was a prominent Spanish athlete renowned for his exceptional talent in the long jump. His career reached its pinnacle in 1999, a year that saw him achieve remarkable feats, including a jump of eight point five six meters during the indoor season, which earned him a silver medal at the World Indoor Championships. That same year, he set a new outdoor personal best with another jump of eight point five six meters, securing a second silver medal at the World Championships. This impressive mark remained the European indoor long jump record for a decade.

In 2003, Lamela was recognized as the number one ranked long jumper in the world, boasting a best jump of eight point five three meters. However, his athletic journey was marred by a series of injuries, including two significant Achilles tears in 2004 and 2006, which ultimately led to his retirement in 2009.

Following his retirement, Lamela faced personal challenges, including chronic depression, which led to his admission to the psychiatric ward of the San Agustin de Avilés hospital in June 2011. Tragically, on May 8, 2014, he was found dead at his parents' house, with a heart attack determined as the cause of death. Lamela was only thirty-six years old at the time of his passing, leaving behind a legacy in the world of athletics.