Rising Athletics Star Jailan Sohna Targets Olympic Qualification in 800m Event
Emerging middle-distance talent Jailan Sohna is charting a determined course toward Olympic competition in the 800 metres, following a challenging 2025 season disrupted by an untimely back injury. The Birchfield Harrier, who celebrated his 19th birthday in September, has set his sights on making a significant impact during the 2026 athletics calendar as he works to regain momentum and achieve his ambitious sporting objectives.
Overcoming Adversity After Promising Start
Sohna's journey toward elite competition began promisingly with victory at the English Athletics U20 Indoor Championships early in 2025, positioning him for what appeared to be a breakthrough outdoor campaign. However, a nerve-related back issue emerged at a critical juncture, forcing him to withdraw from key competitions including the European U20 Championships during his final season of eligibility at that level.
"I did really well indoors, and then it was going well outdoors before everything crashed down after I got injured," Sohna reflected. "The injury itself only lasted about two weeks, but it coincided with the main races, so I missed those crucial opportunities. Fortunately, I believe I'm fully recovered now—it wasn't a major injury, just very poorly timed."
Training Among Champions and Setting New Goals
The young athlete trains alongside distinguished competitors including three-time Olympian Elliot Giles and World Indoor silver medallist Jemma Reekie, drawing inspiration from their achievements as he develops his own career. Currently taking a year out after completing sixth form at South Bromsgrove High School, Sohna recognises 2026 as a pivotal period for advancing his athletic ambitions.
His immediate target involves running 1 minute 45 seconds for the 800m during the summer season, a performance he hopes will attract sponsorship support. "Usually my focus would be on winning medals since qualifying times matter most, but there are limited major competitions for me next summer," Sohna explained. "Last year I aimed for the U20 European Championships but missed the trials due to injury. Now I'm targeting the U23 European Championships with medal aspirations, and I'll have another opportunity in two years when I'll be at the peak age for that category."
From Football to Middle-Distance Running
Sohna discovered his passion for middle-distance running following the Covid-19 pandemic, having previously been an enthusiastic footballer. His rapid development enabled him to participate in a training camp in South Africa alongside Elliot Giles during 2025, with plans to return to the Rainbow Nation in January for further preparation.
Beyond physical training, Sohna dedicates considerable time to studying elite athletes' performances, absorbing technical insights and strategic approaches. "I've learned extensively from both successes and defeats through regular competition," he noted. "Racing frequently enhances development, so I've maximised competitive opportunities. I analyse numerous races to extract valuable lessons and learn from my errors. While I maintain realistic perspective, my current goal involves transitioning to full-time athletics, with the ultimate objectives being Olympic participation and potentially challenging world records."
Sponsorship Support Accelerating Development
Although not yet a full-time athlete, Sohna recently secured funding through Aldi's partnership with SportsAid, an initiative providing financial assistance and developmental opportunities to promising sportspeople. This support enables him to undertake essential training activities like the South African camp while reducing reliance on part-time employment at a local restaurant.
"The Aldi assistance has made a tremendous difference," Sohna acknowledged. "It allows me to work fewer hours, access physiotherapy services, save for training camps, and concentrate more intensively on running without distractions. I can focus on Brighton-based training while worrying less about financial pressures that don't contribute to athletic progress."
Aldi and SportsAid are now in their fourth collaborative year, with the supermarket supporting six local athletes through enhanced awards in 2026. The programme provides financial backing, monthly fruit and vegetable vouchers, and access to specialised learning sessions, alongside promotional activities throughout the year.
