Olympic-bound javelin thrower Kishore Jena has emerged as a rising star in Indian athletics, following his impressive performance at the 2023 Asian Games. Alongside Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic champion, Jena has formed a formidable duo that is poised to make waves at the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics.
Jena’s journey to the top has been marked by his unwavering determination and the invaluable guidance of Neeraj Chopra. In a recent interview with NDTV, Jena expressed his admiration for Chopra’s humility and mentorship. “He is such a senior athlete, but he always treats us with respect,” Jena said. “He keeps on pushing me ahead during tournaments and never makes me feel like he is my competition.”
Jena’s meteoric rise has been fueled by his relentless pursuit of improvement. Last year, he shattered his personal best by over 9 meters, propelling him into the elite ranks of javelin throwers. As he prepares for the Olympics, Jena is meticulously fine-tuning his technique and fitness through rigorous training and participation in prestigious events like the Diamond League.
In the lead-up to the Paris Games, Jena spent 35 days training in Australia, where he honed his skills in an optimal environment. “The temperature was around 2-3 degrees Celsius in Patiala, so the Athletic Federation of India recommended us to go for training,” Jena explained. “Our trip turned out to be a success as we had good practice sessions twice a day.”
Jena’s unwavering focus and the unwavering support of his mentor, Neeraj Chopra, have positioned him as a legitimate contender for an Olympic medal. As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, Jena is determined to leave an indelible mark on the world stage and inspire a new generation of Indian athletes.
