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Jyothi Yarraji, India's first-ever Olympic 100m hurdler, is determined to overcome adversity and make her mark in Paris. Her journey has been marked by her mother's unwavering support and a positive mindset that has helped her navigate challenges.Yarraji's mother, Kumari, worked tirelessly as a domestic help and hospital cleaner to provide for her family. Despite their struggles, Kumari instilled in her daughter the importance of perseverance and positivity. "My mom always told me to just keep going forward because we can't stop the present, past, and the future," Yarraji said.Yarraji's positive mindset has been crucial in her athletic career. She has faced numerous injuries and setbacks, but she has always managed to bounce back stronger. "I got a lot of injuries, lots of hurdle hits, lots of falling down. I got minus but I try to turn it to plus," she said.Yarraji's coach, James Hillier, believes she is in the best shape of her life. "She is in the best shape I have ever seen, physically and mentally. She can run significantly faster than her best timing," Hillier said.Yarraji is aware of the pressure she will face at the Olympics, but she is determined to remain calm and focused. "I don't have experience of (competing in the) Olympics but I am confident that it will go well," she said. "I am now focusing more on recovery and meditation so that I remain calm and focused."Yarraji's journey is an inspiration to all who face adversity. Her determination, resilience, and positive mindset are a testament to the power of the human spirit.

Jyothi Yarraji, India's first female Olympic qualifier in the 100m hurdles, has embarked on an extraordinary journey under the guidance of British coach James Hillier. Hillier, impressed by Jyothi's raw speed, recognized her potential and has since honed her technique, explosive power, and agility.Jyothi's unwavering determination has led to a remarkable 11 national record-breaking performances. Her speed and precision have enabled her to overcome the challenges of 10 hurdles over 100m. Despite a hip flexor injury that sidelined her for a month, Jyothi's resilience and Hillier's positive outlook have fueled her recovery.Hillier believes that Jyothi's near-miss in Finland, where she clocked 12.78secs, just 0.01secs shy of the Olympic qualification mark, has instilled confidence in her abilities. "She knows now that she can do it again at that pace," Hillier said.Jyothi's first Olympic appearance will be a testament to her hard work and dedication. Hillier's realistic goal is for her to achieve a personal best, while an ambitious target is to qualify for the final. Jyothi's performance at the World Championships and Asian Games has demonstrated her potential, and with continued training and recovery, she is poised to make a mark on the Olympic stage.

National record holder Jyothi Yarraji has made a triumphant start to her outdoor season, claiming gold in the 100m hurdles at the Harry Schulting Games in Vught, the Netherlands. The 24-year-old clocked a time of 12.87 seconds, her fourth career best, to secure victory in the World Athletics category E event.Yarraji's performance is a testament to her consistent progress and unwavering determination. Last year, she made history by winning a silver medal in the 100m hurdles at the Hangzhou Asian Games. Her impressive display in Vught suggests that she is well on track to qualify for the Paris Olympics, even though she has yet to meet the qualifying standard of 12.77 seconds.Currently ranked 26th on the World Athletics Road to Paris list, Yarraji is poised to secure a spot in the Olympic field through world rankings. Only 25 athletes will qualify for the women's 100m hurdles in Paris based on entry standard, while 15 will earn their place through world rankings.Yarraji's national record stands at 12.78 seconds, a mark she set during the World University Games last year. Her versatility was evident in February when she claimed gold in the 60m hurdles at the Asian Indoor Championships in Tehran.Yarraji's success is a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in India and around the world. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to overcome challenges serve as a reminder that anything is possible with hard work and dedication.