Eemil throws his way to U23 European Championship bronze

Eemil Porvari won the bronze medal in the men’s javelin throw at the U23 European Championships in Bergen, Norway. The competition was won by Ukrainian Artur Felfner with a throw of 81.14 m, silver went to Germany’s Nick Thumm with a personal best of 80.74 m, and Eemil’s best throw reached 79.88 m. Finland earned four medals in Bergen – two golds and two bronzes, one of which was Eemil’s.

Eemil Porvari in Bergen, Norway

In the qualification round, Eemil Porvari threw 80.26 m on his second attempt, securing a direct spot in the final. He topped the entire qualification competition.

The automatic qualification mark was set at 76.00 m or the top 12 athletes would advance.

Eemil’s throw of 80.26 m was clearly among the best. His first attempt flew high and fell short, but the second throw soared far and solidified his place in the final.

Eemil in the middle of his throw

The final was held on July 19, and Eemil Porvari’s best throw came in the fifth round, measuring 79.88 m. The medal positions in the final standings were:

• Artur Felfner (UKR) – 81.14 m

• Nick Thumm (GER) – 80.74 m

• Eemil Porvari (FIN) – 79.88 m

Eemil’s season best before the championships was 81.55 m. He was in contention for silver during the final, but the defending European U23 champion, Artur Felfner, secured the gold with his last throw.

The other Finnish athlete in the final, Tuomas Närhi, placed eighth with a result of 71.87 m.

Eemil felt he had more in the tank. While the power was there, the technique didn’t fully click during the final. In an interview with YLE, he shared his thoughts:

“The bronze definitely feels good after a really tough spring. Still, I’m a bit disappointed — it felt like I had a lot more potential in me.”