Jinson Johnson to ‘Fully Focus’ On 1500m Till Tokyo Olympics

Asian Games medallist Jinson Johnson said he would not compete in 800m and focus just on 1500m.

Jinson Johnson celebrates after his gold in the men’s 1500m. 

(Photo: PTI)

Asian Games gold medallist Jinson Johnson, on Wednesday, 5 September, said he would not compete in 800m now and focus just on 1500m since he considers himself a medal contender at the Tokyo Olympics in the event.

Johnson was favourite to win both 800m and 1500m but compatriot Manjeet Singh pipped him in a thrilling finish in Jakarta. However Johnson clocked 3:44.72 to win the 1500m gold medal.

If you are focusing on the Olympics, there is no point competing in both 800m and 1500m. I have spoken to my coaches and have decided that my focus will be on 1500m for Tokyo Olympics. I believe I will be a medal contender in Tokyo.

Jinson Johnson

Olympics is a completely different ball game compared to Asiad but what makes Johnson confident is the timing.

Look at the medalists at the Rio Olympics. The gold medalist (Mathew Centrowitz of US) clocked 3:50.00. Now look at my timing at the Asian Games. It is 3:44.72. So, in 1500m, It’s not just about the timing. The middle distance running is all about strategy. You don’t have to necessarily create world record to win Olympic gold. Like my personal best is 3:37.00 which is also a national record

Jinson Johnson

He is currently training at the national camp under Jayesh Bhatia and will be leaving for Czech Invitational Championship.

‘’The event is on 8 and 9 September. I would be leaving tomorrow. Apart from myself, there is Neeraj, PU Chithra, Arpinder Singh and Sudha Singh taking part,’’ informed Johnson.

A resident of Calicut, Johnson said that his family was luckily saved from the devastating floods that hit Kerala but he will try to help the affected people.

''I have some plans in mind. I will definitely do something for the people of my state,'' Johnson said.