Marija Šestak, Serbian-Slovenian triple jumper

Marija Šestak, known in Serbian Cyrillic as Марија Шестак (and by her maiden name Martinović, Мартиновић), is an accomplished track and field athlete renowned for her prowess in the triple jump. Born in Serbia, she later embraced Slovenian citizenship, representing the nation with distinction on the international stage. Her athletic journey is marked by significant achievements, particularly a national record that stands as a testament to her dedication and skill.

Born as Marija Martinović on April 17, 1979, her early life began in Kragujevac, a city located in what was then the Socialist Republic of Serbia, a constituent republic of the larger Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. This historical context of her birthplace reflects a period of significant geopolitical shifts in the Balkans. Her personal life became intertwined with her athletic career when she married Matija Šestak, a notable Slovenian 400-meter runner, creating a prominent sporting couple. This union eventually led to her naturalization, with Slovenian citizenship officially granted on July 13, 2006, a pivotal moment that allowed her to compete internationally under the Slovenian flag.

Athletic Career and Records

Šestak's career highlights are predominantly found in the triple jump, a technically demanding track and field event that combines explosive power with precise execution across three distinct phases: the hop, the step, and the jump. Her most remarkable performance occurred on February 13, 2008, in Athens, Greece, where she achieved an outstanding personal best jump of 15.08 meters. This monumental leap not only marked a career high but also established a new Slovenian national record, decisively surpassing the previous mark of Anja Valant, which had stood for seven years. Beyond her specialization in the triple jump, Marija Šestak also demonstrated commendable skill in the long jump, another horizontal jumping event, holding a personal best of 6.50 meters, showcasing her versatility as a jumper.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Marija Šestak?
Marija Šestak is a Serbian-born Slovenian triple jumper, best known for holding the Slovenian national record in her primary event.
When and where was Marija Šestak born?
She was born as Marija Martinović on April 17, 1979, in Kragujevac, which was then part of the Socialist Republic of Serbia within the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.
What is Marija Šestak's main athletic event?
Her primary and most successful event is the triple jump, though she also competes in the long jump.
When did she become a Slovenian citizen?
Marija Šestak was granted Slovenian citizenship on July 13, 2006.
What is her personal best in the triple jump?
Her personal best in the triple jump is an impressive 15.08 meters, achieved on February 13, 2008, in Athens.
Is 15.08 meters a record for Slovenia?
Yes, her jump of 15.08 meters is the current national record for Slovenia in the triple jump, surpassing the previous record held by Anja Valant.
Does she also compete in the long jump?
Yes, Marija Šestak also has a personal best of 6.50 meters in the long jump.
Is Marija Šestak married to another athlete?
Yes, she is married to Matija Šestak, who is a Slovenian 400-meter runner.