"Almost alright now" - Kishore Jena on his ankle pain ahead of Paris Olympics 2024

Indian javelin thrower Kishore Jena expressed relief with his performance at the 63rd National Inter-State Athletics Championships. Jena had been struggling with form and fitness this season but still managed to win a bronze medal at the Inter-State Athletics Championships at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula, Haryana.

The Asian Games silver medallist surpassed the 80m mark for the first time this season, with throws of 80.84m and 80.47m in his second and third attempts. Despite missing out on the gold, Jena achieved his season's best. Haryana’s Sahil Silwal clinched the gold medal with a throw of 81.81m, while Odisha’s Vikrant Malik came second with 81.74m.

Jena, 28, recently discussed his injury concerns following the Federation Cup 2024 held in May in Bhubaneshwar. He even highlighted his ongoing recovery process.

"I felt ankle pain in my left leg (blocking leg) after the Federation Cup, but I could not pinpoint when it happened. We consulted a doctor who told me not to worry about it. We reduced the load a bit and did recovery exercises and physiotherapy. The pain has reduced, and it's almost alright now. Still, I did not go all out today," said Kishore Jena (via PTI).

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"I am relieved that I got back to 80-plus throw,” - Kishore Jena on his performance at the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships

Kishore Jena is considered a potential medal contender for India at the Paris Olympics 2024, following in the footsteps of Tokyo 2020 gold medallist Neeraj Chopra. Jena qualified for the Paris Olympics after winning a silver medal at the Asian Games 2023 with a personal best throw of 87.54m.

While he regularly breached the 80m mark last season, this year’s results had been less consistent. Jena now feels relieved to have crossed the 80m mark again and is regaining his rhythm as he prepares for the Paris Olympics 2024.

"I am relieved that I got back to 80-plus throw after the Federation Cup. I feel I am getting back to my rhythm, and I hope to do well in the Paris Diamond League on July 7 and then head to the Olympics,” Jena added.