Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Kishore for this achievement. “Our accomplishments in Men’s Javelin at Asian Games are remarkable. Silver also comes to India. Congratulations to Kishore Jena for winning this splendid Silver in the event. The nation cherishes this victory,” said Modi in his X post.
Asian Games 2023: Neeraj Chopra and Kishore Jena win Gold and Silver for India in Javelin throw competition
After the event was over, Naveen announced a cash award of Rs 1.5 crore for Kishore. He assured all support for the javelin star for his preparation for the Olympics next year. “With this silver, Kishore has created a historic moment for the state and country and brought laurels for the nation and will remain etched in the sports history of the country,” said Naveen in a press statement.
He said the award is in recognition of his stellar performance, his perseverance and determination. “I congratulate him on his win at the Asian Games and also qualifying for the Paris Olympics. Kishore’s triumph not only reflects personal excellence but also serves as an inspiration for budding athletes across the country,” he added.
Sportspersons, sports lovers, politicians and intellectuals congratulated the new javelin star of India. People from Jena’s village Kotha Sahi under Brahmagiri block in Puri district expressed happiness over Jena’s performance and securing a spot for the Paris Olympics. Kishore’s father Keshab Jena, a farmer, along with other family members and friends saw the match from TV at home.
“I performed a special puja for my son. I am happy that he won a silver medal for the country. I miss him so much. As he is preparing for the tournaments, he has been away from home during the last two years,” said Kishore’s mother Harapriya Jena.
Anjana, sister of Kishore, said she is proud of her brother for the achievement. “We were excited after seeing his record-breaking performance in the Asian Games. He was constantly improving his throw. He was leading the point table till Neeraj gave his best in this event,” she added.
At the half-way stage, Kishore was leading with a throw of 86.77m. Later Neeraj Chopra improved his throw and won the gold with 88.88m. Kishore broke his own record (86.77m) in this game with 87.54m. In August this year, he finished fifth in the men’s javelin final of the World Athletics Championships 2023 with 84.77m. Earlier in July, he had achieved 84.38m in the Sri Lankan National Championships.
Because of this performance, he secured his spot in the Paris Olympics 2024.
