By Justin Gaymon // Photo by Karthik Adimula

New York, March 11, 2015 – Last year, Marie-Josee Ebwea-Bile moved from Paris, France to attend and compete for Benjamin N. Cardozo High School in New York City. This year, the senior has established herself as one of the nation’s best long and triple jumpers and hasn’t lost an event yet. So far she’s reached 41’ 1.5” in the triple jump and 19’ 4” in the long jump. We took some time to chat with Marie-Josee and learn more about this talented athlete and her plans for New Balance Nationals Indoor on March 13 -15.

Tell us about your move from Paris to New York City.

I always wanted to come to the US. My first time was in 2012 when I came here for vacation. From there I was just coming and staying for a few weeks at a time. I had some connections with college coaches who introduced me to Coach Ray (of Benjamin Cardozo) and I decided to move here last year.

What brought on the move?

My future. I wanted a change and I was seeing my future here. I wanted to see how I could do here and what I’m capable of because in the US there are good jumpers.

What are some of the differences between training in Paris and New York City?

You’re not as independent in the US. In France it was just my jumps coach and I. You have to be with your team all the time here and when I first got here that was hard for me, but I’m getting used to it.

How have you adjusted to living in New York City?

I’m fine here. I’m from a big city, too, so living here is not a big deal for me. I love the city life. New York city is beautiful.

If an American were to visit Paris where would you tell him or her to go?

Champs Elysees. It’s where the Eiffel Tower is.

Do you favor the triple or long jump?

The triple for the moment, but I love long jump, too.

Who are some of the professional jumpers that you look up to?

Teddy Tamgho because I know him very well. He’s like a mentor to me, but he’s the only one I’m looking up to. For now I just look at myself. I don’t want to have an idol.

What college are you going to?

Kentucky. I like the coach. We talked about what he was going to do with me and that’s what I was looking for. The facilities are really great, too.

Do you hope to jump professionally after college?

Yeah, of course.

What are your goals for this year’s New Balance Nationals Indoor?

I’m trying to win and PR. I’m third in the nation right now in the triple jump, but I haven’t jumped my PR yet, so I’m not worried about that. I’m a fighter. I didn’t come here to lose and I know what I’m capable of.