x
Breaking News
More () »

Last Jump | Georgia Olympian says Paris could be last appearance

Atlanta-born and raised, Keturah Orji, an Olympic track athlete, is no stranger to success.

ATLANTA — At the break of dawn, a soft thud of footsteps echoes in the still morning air as Olympian Keturah Orji defies gravity with each stride as she gears up for what could be her last time at the summer games. 

Atlanta-born and raised, Orji, an Olympic track athlete, is no stranger to success. 

With an impressive tally of ten U.S. National Championship titles under her belt and American record holder, Orji consistently dominates her field, showcasing her unwavering dedication and unparalleled skill. 

From her early days as a collegiate athlete at the University of Georgia to her current status as a seasoned professional, Orji's journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

RELATED: Keturah Orji's third straight U.S. Indoors triple jump title 

Credit: AP
Keturah Orji, of the United States, competes in the final of the women's triple jump at the 2020 Summer Olympics, Sunday, Aug. 1, 2021, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

"Georgia is really the foundation of where I became who I am today," she said. "I mean, that's where I broke the American record."

RELATED: Olympics track Keturah Orji Jasmine Moore Elija Godwin watch

Reflecting on her journey, Orji emphasized consistency, discipline and self-belief in sustaining success over the years. 

"Knowing that, I'm one of the best jumpers in America, and I'm really one of the first people to do this in my event," she said. 

Despite facing several obstacles along the way, she remained committed to excellence and was driven by an unwavering determination to achieve her goals.

Credit: AP
Keturah Orji celebrates after winning women's triple jump at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials Sunday, June 20, 2021, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

As she prepares for the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, Orji is poised to make history again. With her sights set on becoming the first American woman to win a medal in her event, she approaches the competition with a mix of excitement and determination.

"Retire on a high note," she said. "Podium is always the goal. It's very difficult." 

As the world eagerly anticipates the Olympic Games in Paris, we know that all eyes in Georgia will be on Keturah Orji as she seeks to etch her name in the annals of history once again. 

   

Before You Leave, Check This Out