Neeraj Chopra Classic: Javelin Throwing World Descends on Bengaluru for Gold Event

Neeraj Chopra Classic Set to Elevate Javelin Throwing in Bengaluru

The Neeraj Chopra Classic, a prestigious World Athletics Continental Tour gold event, is poised to commence, promising a thrilling spectacle for sports enthusiasts. The event, featuring some of the world's elite javelin throwers, will be held this Saturday.

Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra during a training session.

Neeraj Chopra, assuming the dual roles of both competitor and organizer, visited the Sree Kanteerava Stadium to address the media. Following the press conference, he joined fellow athletes, including Germany's Thomas Rohler, for a light training session overseen by coach Jan Zelezny.

Chopra commented on his dual responsibilities: "The most challenging aspect of organizing this event is the limited time it leaves for training. I am involved in arranging everything, but things are progressing smoothly."

He further elaborated on the decision to host the event in Karnataka, stating, "I have observed the strong passion for sports among the people of Karnataka, which influenced our decision to host the meet here. I encourage parents to bring their children to witness the event, fostering the growth of athletics. We plan to expand the meet in the future, providing opportunities for our athletes, who are excelling on the global stage, to compete against top international athletes on Indian soil."

Fond Memories of Bengaluru

Chopra reminisced about his training days in Bengaluru as a young athlete, recalling his SAF Games gold win in Guwahati and the World U-20 gold in Bydgoszcz, Poland, in 2016.

"I trained at the SAI South Centre here for 5-6 months in 2016-17. We explored the city, visiting malls and MG Road. Those were enjoyable times, and I have cherished memories from those days. Bengaluru is a wonderful city with pleasant weather and welcoming people.”

Regarding his debut at the venue, the 27-year-old athlete said, “This is my first time competing in Bengaluru, and it’s an international event. I am pleased with my preparation and eagerly anticipate Saturday.”

Appealing to the city’s sports enthusiasts, the world champion urged, “Despite being away from home, the support I have received makes me feel at home. This marks the first event of its kind in India. I invite all sports lovers in Bengaluru to come and support the event. Top athletes from around the world are participating, and I believe everyone will enjoy it."

Chopra also expressed gratitude to the state government for their invaluable support.

"Initially, we had planned the event in Haryana, but encountered some technical challenges, including lighting issues. We then reached out to the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, through Govindaraj, and received an overwhelmingly positive response and assurance of full support. I have visited the stadium and observed the improvements, including the new seating arrangements. Everything is progressing well," Neeraj stated, acknowledging the presence of Karnataka Olympic Association president K Govindaraj and other key government officials.