Neeraj Chopra, India’s two-time Olympic medallist and reigning world champion, is set to delight fans by headlining an international javelin event in India later this year. The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) confirmed this exciting news, aiming to coincide the competition with the conclusion of the World Championships in Tokyo, taking place from September 13-21, 2023.
Chopra’s stellar journey in athletics has made him a household name, following his gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics, alongside a silver in Eugene (2022) and another gold in Budapest (2023) at the World Championships. His impressive podium finishes in the Diamond League, including a title victory in Zurich (2022) and silvers in Eugene (2023) and Brussels (2024) further solidify his status as a global track and field star.
Although he has participated in just one home event since the Tokyo Olympics—a Federation Cup victory in May 2022—Chopra has predominantly been training and competing internationally. To harness his popularity and elevate javelin’s profile in India, the AFI plans to host this exclusive competition featuring the world’s top ten javelin throwers. Adille Sumariwalla, the outgoing AFI president, announced plans for the invitation tournament, emphasizing that Chopra will play a key role in drawing renowned athletes to the event.
August 7, marking Chopra’s Olympic gold victory, will be celebrated as National Javelin Day, further promoting the sport. Chopra is expected to personally invite leading throwers, showcasing the customary camaraderie that distinguishes the javelin community. His reputation as a friendly competitor was highlighted recently when he attended fellow athlete Jakub Vadlejch’s home competition in the Czech Republic as a guest.
With Chopra, along with long jumper Murali Sreeshankar and steeplechaser Avinash Sable, leading the charge, the AFI aims to expand India’s footprint on the international athletics stage, expressing interest in hosting the 2029 World Championships and the 2027 World Relays. Additionally, they are seeking to stage a Continental Tour event in Bhubaneswar and have submitted a bid for the 2028 World Junior Championships. World Athletics president Sebastian Coe, during his recent visit to India, acknowledged these ambitions, noting the city’s potential as a robust sporting hub.
India’s two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra will headline an international javelin event in India later this year, organised by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) post the World Championships in Tokyo. Chopra’s impressive track record, including multiple medals at both the Olympics and World Championships, has garnered significant global attention, making him an ideal face for promoting javelin in India. Additionally, the AFI aims to enhance India’s hosting of international athletics events in the future.
In conclusion, Neeraj Chopra’s upcoming participation in the international javelin event at home represents a golden opportunity for Indian athletics to elevate its global profile. The AFI’s initiatives to host prestigious events, alongside Chopra’s undeniable star power and community spirit, promise to inspire future generations of athletes. With aspirations to host major championships in the coming years, the stage is set for India to shine in the realm of athletics.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
