What is it? Fans whistled, yelled and stamped, And my coach shouted: “Good Lord!” - It’s eight-fifty1 in my first attempt, But I overstepped the take-off board... It was so near - my reward, But instead of laurels - bitter rue... Once I overstep the take-off board, I turn straight into a human-kangaroo!
       
What is it? Fans whistled, yelled and stamped, Even my contender would applaud - It’s eight-sixty in my next attempt, But I overstepped the take-off board... It’s nobody’s fault, I must confess, I can’t bear boards and borders - yes, it’s true... An American will win today, I guess, He’ll be called a “human-kangaroo”!
       
What is it? Fans whistled, yelled and stamped, Everybody cheered in accord - It’s eight-ninety in my best attempt, But I overstepped the take-off board... What to do? I’m lonely and ignored... That American - he wins, he tops the bill... Should this board once go by the board - Then I’ll beat America, I swear, guys, I will!
       
What is it? Fans seem to fall asleep, Commentators looking so bored - Seven-eighty1... That’s how long I leap When I take off right before the board!        
For my pains I’m nothing but a fool, I have had enough - I quit, I’m washing out... I can’t jump according to the rule, But to jump against the rule - I’ll never be allowed!
1 8m 50cm is about 27ft 9in; 7m 80cm is about 25ft 6in
 
© George Tokarev. Translation, 2001
Edited by Robert Titterton