Bowerman Award winner Jaydon Hibbert heading to Paris 2024 Olympics

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Do you remember what you were doing at 18 years old? Most of us were just starting to figure out adulthood.

Triple jumper Jaydon Hibbert was doing the same, but he’s also been busy breaking records. The freshman set collegiate, Jamaican and world records.

At 19 years old, the former Arkansas Razorback is looking to make his next impression at the pro level.

“Three years ago, God took me from really being this ordinary jumper to this extraordinary jumper,” Hibbert said.

At just 18 years old, Jayden Hibbert has accomplished what some hope to do in their entire career. In December, Hibbert won the Bowerman Award, given to the most outstanding male or female athlete for the year.

“To do what he’s done and do it with such grace and such humility. He’s the premiere package,” Arkansas Razorbacks Track and Field Associate Head Coach Travis Geopfert said.

Growing up in Kingston, Jamaica, Jaydon didn’t start competing in jumps until he was 16 years old, earning a scholarship to Arkansas and working with Geopfert.

“In triple jumping itself, I don’t know what I do. He just says jump and I jump,” Hibbert said.

Geopfert said he’s excited for the world to be able to see more of him and the genuine person that he is, but also for him to continue to come out of this shell.

In January, Hibbert decided to turn pro. But that doesn’t mean he’s done with college.

“I walk to class like any other, you know, just be a normal kid even though I’m a pro athlete right now,” Hibbert said.

Geopfert said he’s proud that he is committed to his degree and finishing school.

“It’s just a really big deal, you know, for a young man that just turned 19 years old, to have that big picture mindset,” Geopfert said.

He and Geopfert can focus on the dream Hibbert had since he was young.

“They always ask me on paper what you want to become I said, I’m an Olympic athlete,” Hibbert said.

Geopfert said he’s excited to bring that spotlight to jobs and thinks he’s a great personality for it.

The quick success has given him a platform without having to sacrifice what’s most important, being true to himself.

“Just put God first. Let him lead. Let him give the coaches, whoever is in my development, the wisdom to guide me and to just give it my best. It’s track and field you enjoy yourself,” Hibbert said.

Hibbert has already met the Olympic standard mark and will only have to compete in the Jamaican trials if there are more than three athletes who also meet the standard.