At just 17 years old, Ayesha Jones has already made a name for herself in the world of athletics and Javelin. Ranked 9th in the world for Javelin in the women’s under-20 category, Ayesha recently broke a Commonwealth Youth Games record, representing Team England in Trinidad and Tobago. In this interview, she opens up about her journey, challenges, and future goals.
Starting Your Journey
Interviewer: Ayesha, you once picked up a javelin at school just out of curiosity. Can you take us back to that moment? What inspired you to give it a try?
Ayesha Jones: Yeah, I remember it clearly. I was always quick, and my PE teachers noticed. They encouraged me to explore athletics, so I joined a club at around seven. One day, I saw a friend taking part in javelin and thought, "Why not?" I picked it up, gave it a try, and something just clicked.
Early Challenges
Interviewer: What were some of the challenges you faced when you first started with javelin? Did you ever imagine it would lead to setting a Commonwealth Youth Games record?
Ayesha: I always felt I had a natural ability, even from a young age. I’d practise with Nerf balls, and people would notice how far I could throw them. That made me realise I could take this further. But starting out, there were challenges. Learning the technique, balancing school, and just the pressure of competing. But setting a record at the Commonwealth Youth Games? That was beyond anything I could have imagined when I first started.
Training Regime
Interviewer: What does your training routine look like? How do you balance your studies at Stantonbury School with the demands of training and competing?
Ayesha: Right now, it’s off-season, so I get a bit more rest. But during the winter season, I focus on technique and prepare for the main competition season, which runs from April to September. It’s a lot to balance with school. I’m in my last year at Stantonbury, studying A-levels in Economics, Biology, and Sports Tech. During free periods, I catch up on schoolwork. After school, I’m training until about 8 or 9 PM, and then it’s back to the books if needed.
Support System
Interviewer: How has the support from your teachers, coaches, and peers at Stantonbury School helped you on your journey as an athlete?
Ayesha: My teachers, especially Mr. Wilson, have been really supportive. But for my mental health, it’s important to keep school life and sports separate. I need that balance to stay focused on both.
Record-Breaking Moment
Interviewer: Can you describe the feeling of breaking the Commonwealth Youth Games record? What was going through your mind when you realised what you had achieved?
Ayesha: It was surreal. Competing in Trinidad and Tobago for Team England was an incredible experience on its own, but breaking the record felt unreal. I was overwhelmed but also proud. Socialising with other athletes and being part of such a talented team was amazing. The highlight had to be winning, but honestly, just visiting Trinidad and Tobago was a reward in itself. Although, I did expect the officials to be a bit more organised!
Future Goals
Interviewer: Now that you’ve made such a huge impact at the Commonwealth Youth Games, what are your goals moving forward? Are you aiming for bigger competitions like the Olympics?
Ayesha: Definitely. Next year, I’m aiming for the Under-20 European Championships in Finland. Long term, the Olympics is a dream, but right now my focus is on finishing school and getting into university to study Sports and Exercise. One step at a time.
Advice for Aspiring Athletes
Interviewer: What advice would you give to other young students at Stantonbury who might want to pursue athletics or any sport seriously?
Ayesha: If you really want something, go for it. It takes time and effort, but you can achieve it by listening to your coaches and your body. Rest when you need it. Also, if your interest starts as a hobby and you get noticed by scouts, take that chance, but always keep your options open.
Memorable Moments
Interviewer: Aside from breaking the record, what has been one of your most memorable moments as an athlete so far?
Ayesha: Competing in Trinidad and Tobago for the Commonwealth Games is definitely up there, but another highlight was the World Championships in Peru this August. There was such a buzz, and I loved spending time with my teammates during and after the competition.
Personal Growth
Interviewer: How has your journey in athletics shaped you as a person? What have you learned about yourself through this experience?
Ayesha: It’s taught me the importance of separating my sporting life from school to stay focused. I’m naturally quite introverted, but being in training programmes and doing demonstrations has really boosted my confidence. It’s also helped me earn UCAS points, which has been great for my education.
Balancing Academics and Sports
Interviewer: How do you manage to keep up with your academic work while training and competing? Any tips for students trying to balance both?
Ayesha: Time management is everything. It can get hectic, but I try to stay organised. I make sure to use my free periods wisely and catch up on schoolwork. Training every night during the season until 8 or 9 PM can be tough, but after that, I’ll hit the books if I need to.
Final Thoughts
Interviewer: If you could sum up your journey so far in three words, what would they be?
Ayesha: Enjoyable, time-managed, and hectic!
Ayesha Jones continues to impress with her dedication and achievements both on and off the field. With her focus set on future competitions and her academic goals, it’s clear that this young athlete is just getting started. Keep an eye on her – we’re sure to see more records broken in the future!
