Agate De Sousa: From São Tomé to European Podiums

Agate De Sousa (born June 5, 2000) has emerged as one of track and field’s most compelling jumpers, transitioning from a sprinter in São Tomé and Príncipe to a Portuguese national record-holder and European medalist. Her journey—marked by technical refinement, resilience, and a historic 7.03m long jump—exemplifies the transformative power of opportunity and dedication.

Early Career and Transition to Portugal

Beginnings in São Tomé and Príncipe

De Sousa initially competed as a 100m sprinter, qualifying for the 2017 World U18 Championships but withdrawing before her event. By 2019, she shifted focus to the long jump, debuting internationally at the African Games in Rabat, where she placed 7th (6.05m).

Move to Portugal (2019)

Relocating to Portugal in 2019 proved pivotal. Training under European coaching systems, she began competing as a foreign national in Portuguese championships, laying the groundwork for future records.

Record-Breaking Achievements

National and Continental Milestones

• São Toméan Records:

  • 2021: Broke Naide Gomes’ 20-year-old long jump record with 6.68m.

  • 2023: Shattered her own mark at the B&S Kurpfalz Gala in Germany, leaping 7.03m (+1.7 m/s)—the first São Toméan woman and fourth African woman to surpass 7 meters.

• Portuguese Championships:

  • 2023: Double gold in long jump (7.03m) and triple jump (14.13m).

International Success

• 2024 European Championships (Rome): Secured bronze with 6.91m, trailing only Malaika Mihambo (7.22m) and Larissa Iapichino (6.94m).

• 2024 Paris Olympics: Finished 13th in qualification (6.34m), representing Portugal after initiating naturalization.

Technical Profile and Versatility

Signature Events

• Long Jump: Combines explosive acceleration (14-stride approach) with precise board accuracy, achieving an 85%+ foul-free rate.

• Triple Jump: Personal best of 14.13m (2023), showcasing her adaptability across horizontal jumps.

Training and Challenges

De Sousa’s 2021 indoor season was hampered by travel restrictions due to her non-EU citizenship. However, she rebounded by dominating European meets, refining her phase transitions and wind adaptation.

Legacy and Future Trajectory

Pioneering São Toméan Athletics

De Sousa’s 7.03m jump revitalized interest in track and field in São Tomé and Príncipe, inspiring young athletes to pursue technical events. Her eventual switch to Portuguese nationality (pending formalization) mirrors the path of mentor Naide Gomes, who also transitioned from São Tomé to Portugal.

Olympic Aspirations

With the 2028 Los Angeles Games as a target, De Sousa aims to breach 7.20m and challenge for global podiums. Her bronze at the 2024 European Championships positions her as a contender in future championships.

Conclusion

Agate De Sousa’s ascent from São Tomé’s tracks to Europe’s elite underscores the intersection of talent and opportunity. As she continues to redefine Iberian jumping, her story resonates as a testament to perseverance, proving that borders need not limit athletic ambition. With each leap, De Sousa carries the hopes of two nations, bridging continents and cultures through sport.

Key Stats:

• Long Jump PB: 7.03m (2023)

• Triple Jump PB: 14.13m (2023)

• Honors: 2024 European Bronze, 2023 Portuguese Double Champion, São Toméan Record-Holder.

“I want to show that with focus, even small nations can produce world-class athletes.” — Agate De Sousa (paraphrased from interviews).

Go Agate!