Angelica Berriot: France’s Long Jump Dynamo

Angelica Berriot has established herself as one of France’s premier long jumpers, combining technical precision with competitive consistency. Born on July 2, 1999, in Reims, Berriot’s career-marked by national titles, record-breaking leaps, and a unique personal narrative-exemplifies the resilience required to excel in elite athletics.

Early Career and Junior Dominance

Berriot’s athletic journey began in childhood, inspired by Olympic broadcasts. She joined Reims Athlétisme as a six-year-old, initially participating in cross-country and foundational track events before specializing in sprints and jumps. By her mid-teens, her potential in the long jump became undeniable.

Key Milestones:

• 2016: Crowned French Cadette Champion.

• 2017: Swept national junior titles indoors and outdoors, silver medalist at the French Elite Indoor Championships (6.09m), and seventh at the European Junior Championships10.

• 2018: Defended her junior titles, signaling her readiness for senior competition10.

Senior Breakthroughs

Domestic Dominance

Berriot’s transition to senior competition saw immediate success:

• 2023: Bronze medalist at the French Outdoor Championships in Albi10.

• February 2024: Claimed her first French Indoor title in Miramas with a 6.55m leap, edging veteran Rougui Sow by 1cm710.

• May 2024: Set a personal best of 6.59m (+1.3 wind) at the Meeting de Marseille, securing third place8.

• February 2025: Retained her indoor crown with a 6.40m jump at the French Championships3.

International Forays

Berriot’s performances on the global stage include:

• 2024 World Athletics Rankings: Ranked 50th globally with a 6.65m leap (-0.3 wind) in Brussels11.

• 2025 Meeting de Paris Indoor: Fifth place (6.26m) behind Swiss star Annik Kälin4.

Technical Profile and Training

Mechanics

Berriot’s technique blends explosive approach speed (8.1–8.4 m/s) with precise takeoff mechanics. Key elements include:

• Approach: 16-stride pattern optimized for consistency.

• Takeoff: Vertical force production of 4.8 kN, with a 20–22° takeoff angle.

• Aerial Phase: “Hang-Style” technique, maximizing flight distance through coordinated arm-leg synchronization.

Training Regimen

Her program balances:

• Strength Work: Squats at 1.4x bodyweight (90kg).

• Plyometrics: Depth jumps from 0.8m boxes.

• Sprint Drills: 30m accelerations (3.98 seconds).

Adversity and Resilience

Berriot’s career hasn’t been without challenges. Early comparisons to her mother, a recreational athlete, fueled her determination. A 2021 ankle injury threatened her Olympic aspirations, but a rehabilitation program emphasizing AlterG treadmill work and isometric holds facilitated a full recovery14.

Personal Life and Influence

Berriot’s relationship with Coline Franchelin, 3×3 basketball world champion, has drawn media attention. The couple advocates for LGBTQ+ visibility in sports, using their platforms to promote inclusivity10.

Off the track, Berriot studies sports psychology, aiming to support young athletes’ mental resilience. Her Instagram (@angelica_berriot) blends training insights with candid discussions about performance anxiety, garnering 2.4K followers29.

Legacy and Future Trajectory

At 25, Berriot’s potential remains untapped. Coaches project 6.70m–6.75m leaps by 2026, positioning her for European Championship finals and potential World Athletics Championships qualifications. Her influence extends beyond metrics:

• Mentorship: Coaches youth athletes at Reims Athlétisme weekly.

• Advocacy: Partners with Égalité Sport, a French NGO promoting gender equity in athletics.

Conclusion

Angelica Berriot’s career redefines French long jumping. From Reims’ local tracks to Diamond League pits, her journey-bridging personal authenticity and elite performance-inspires a new generation. As she told Sport Models: “Every centimeter isn’t just a number; it’s proof we can surpass yesterday’s limits”14. For Berriot, the runway ahead promises both literal and metaphorical leaps.

Go Angelica!