Jaap van der Poll, Dutch javelin thrower (d. 2010)

Jaap van der Poll, born on May 1, 1914, was a distinguished Dutch athlete celebrated for his skill in the javelin throw. His life, which concluded on February 1, 2010, was marked not only by his athletic pursuits but also by his experiences during a tumultuous period in global history.

The 1936 Berlin Olympics and an Unfortunate Setback

Van der Poll's most significant athletic achievement was his participation in the 1936 Summer Olympics held in Berlin, Germany. These games are historically significant, having been hosted by the Nazi regime, which imbued them with a complex political and social context. As a dedicated javelin thrower, he arrived with hopes of competing at the highest level. However, his Olympic journey was prematurely cut short due to an unforeseen medical emergency. During the first round of the competition, he was forced to withdraw because of a sudden and painful onset of kidney stones, a condition that prevented him from continuing and realizing his Olympic aspirations.

Reflections on a Challenging Era

Years later, reflecting on his presence at those controversial Berlin Games, Jaap van der Poll offered a deeply personal perspective on his motivations and the comfort he found amidst a world on the brink. He candidly remarked, "I felt flattered that I was allowed into the Olympic Games. I was in my eyes only just started with that sport. My friends also said: Go! I made a sporting choice. When I returned I was again welcome to my Jewish friends. That was a comfort to me." This powerful statement highlights the personal dilemma faced by many athletes choosing to compete in Berlin, emphasizing his personal conviction to make a "sporting choice" and, crucially, the profound reassurance he drew from the unwavering acceptance of his Jewish friends upon his return, a testament to their loyalty in an era defined by burgeoning antisemitism.

Life Beyond the Athletic Field

Following his Olympic experience, Jaap van der Poll's life took a dramatically different path, moving him away from competitive sports. He embarked on a new chapter, relocating to the Dutch West Indies, which at the time comprised various Dutch colonial territories in the Caribbean, such as Suriname and the Antilles, where he began working. However, the tranquility of this new life was soon interrupted by the onset of World War II. He was later captured and endured the hardships of being held as a Prisoner of War in Japan, an experience that underscored the widespread and devastating impact of the global conflict. Van der Poll lived a long life after these profound experiences, passing away peacefully on February 1, 2010.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What sport did Jaap van der Poll compete in?
Jaap van der Poll was a javelin thrower, an athletic field event where competitors throw a spear-like implement for distance.
When did he participate in the Olympics?
He competed at the 1936 Summer Olympics, which were famously held in Berlin, Germany.
Why did he withdraw from the Olympic competition?
He unfortunately had to withdraw from the javelin throw competition during the first round due to a sudden and severe bout of kidney stones.
What was the significance of his quote about "Jewish friends"?
His quote is particularly poignant given the political climate of the 1936 Berlin Olympics, hosted by Nazi Germany. It reveals that his participation was a personal "sporting choice," and the continued welcome and support from his Jewish friends upon his return provided him immense comfort during a time when antisemitism was rapidly escalating.
What happened to him after the Olympics?
After his Olympic appearance, Jaap van der Poll moved to the Dutch West Indies for work. During World War II, he was later captured and held as a Prisoner of War in Japan.