I Can Achieve 7m Mark, Says Long Jumper Nayana James

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Even though Nayana James lost to Ancy Sojan in the Indian Grand Prix, but you cannot ignore the way Nayana has performed this season. Ancy Sojan staged a remarkable comeback to secure the women's long jump title with a top jump of 6.52 meters in a thrilling final at the Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.

She encountered a difficult challenge from Nayana James, who secured the silver medal by achieving a best jump of 6.48 meters in her last attempt.

The veteran long jumper Nayana has had an outstanding season, securing victory in the Indian Open Jumps with a new personal record of 6.67 meters, claiming the Federation Cup gold, achieving a leap of 6.43 meters in Taiwan (her longest outside of India), defeating Asian champion Sumire Hata, and winning silver in the IGP 3.

By the way, Hata is the sole Asian athlete who has exceeded the 6.86m mark required for automatic qualification in the women’s long jump at the Paris Games.

Before participating in the Indian Grand Prix 3, Nayana spoke exclusively with myKhel about her current season, her dreams for the Paris Olympics, and much more: "I am doing my best for all competitions. I believe that soon I will secure automatic qualification. We can achieve 6.86 or even 7m in the future because India has talented athletes like Ancy and Shaili. I believe our trio can compete together and strive for this distance. I think we have a good chance in upcoming competition." Nayana said

When asked about defeating Asian champion Sumire Hata, the 2017 Asian Championships bronze medalist replied, 'I feel so happy about that performance because after a long time, I competed outside India and I did my best. I did my best in those rainy conditions. So, I feel great.

Nayana's recent performances will improve her chances of qualifying for the Paris Olympics. Despite facing illness, sponsorship challenges, and doubts about her skills, Nayana has made a comeback, thanks to strong belief and support from her close friends and family.

The Kerala-born long jumper also spoke about the areas on which she is working: "We are focusing on my strengths, techniques, and diet. I believe that's why I've seen some improvement

This year Nayana has only participate in one event outside of India that's Taiwan Athletics Meet where she won the Gold medal, asking about if she is planning to compete outside of India she replied "Yes, I will participate Kazakhstan continental tour bronze level. It will happen on 22nd June.

The 2017 Federation Cup winner also said that she is looking forward to the LA Olympics in 2028. Nayana is 28 now, and she will be around 32 when the LA Olympics come. "The 2024 season is a great year. But this year, we have the Paris Olympics, and that is a big competition. That is a big stage now. But I am looking forward to 2028 too," Nayana signed off.

With her eyes set on the Paris Olympics, Nayana James continues to push her limits and inspire fellow athletes. Her resilience and dedication are a testament to the heights she believes Indian long jumpers can reach. As she aims for the coveted 7-meter mark, Nayana's journey is one to watch closely.