To the relief of broadcasters, journalists and stadium announcers, Naide goes by Naide Gomes instead of her full name, which is Enezenaide do Rosario da Vera Cruz Gomes. This tall woman specializing in the long jump quickly learned that a short name is best.

Naide began her career competing in combined events, but she later focused on just one event because of an injury – and she chose the long jump.

Though she will be making her second Olympics appearance, this will be her first Olympics representing Portugal. Though she comes from Sao Tome and Principe, Portugal is in her family bloodlines, so she’s happy to now be representing Portugal.