Father of Algonquin Olympian Shares London Experience

Although didn't medal in his first Olympic appearance, his father Joel Jager couldn’t be more proud of his son.

Evan Jager finished the 3000-meter steeplechase race at the Olympics with a time of 8 minutes, 23.87 seconds earlier this month. Fellow United States teammate Donald Cabral finished shortly after, taking eighth place.

“Finishing sixth in that race, and being the sixth best in the world in the Olympics was a remarkable year [for Evan],” Joel Jager said.

Before the race, Joel Jager knew the competition in the finals Olympic race would be tough.

“We had pretty realistic expectations going into the race, but we were also hopeful that he might medal,” Joel Jager said.

Joel Jager said Evan and Donald kept it an “honest race” by leading the pack for a few laps early on in the run.

After Evan’s race, Joel Jager said him and his family were able to spend time together in London.

“We have had a lot of great experiences here and still the best is getting to spend time with Evan as a family,” Joel Jager said. “(We had) just a couple meals and a little sightseeing with him after his racing was over, but (it was) a much needed reconnection.”

Overall, Joel Jager said he enjoyed his time at the Olympics.

“The Olympics is a spectacular experience,” he said. “The fans are really great and the entire event was managed in an outstanding fashion. London is a fascinating city.”

Evan Jager is not expected to return to the Algonquin area until after September 10. A large party at H.D. Jacobs High School gymnasium is being planned, but the date has yet to be set, according to Joel Jager.

Joel Jager would like to

“I just want to thank the  Algonquin/LITH Community for how much love and support they have shown to Evan and our family this season, and throughout his running career,” he said. “There has been a really amazing response within the community, and Cathy and I, and Evan’s sister Mallory have really appreciated the way everyone has shared in the excitement of this with us. We will relish this season as one of the most memorable experiences of his and our lives.”

Evan was unable to be reached.