New Delhi: Neeraj, visibly elated and proud during a virtual press conference, expressed a sense of accomplishment, stating that he felt he had achieved something significant for India and its athletes. This display of open pride was unusual for him, given his typically reserved nature. A new annual men’s javelin competition is planned, with this year’s event featuring a strong lineup of athletes including past and present world champions and Olympic medalists. Organizers intend to expand the competition to include more events in subsequent years.
The speaker anticipates participation from additional European and Indian athletes, aiming for three to four Indian competitors. He jokingly included himself among the participants.
Discussions are ongoing with additional individuals, one of whom is Olympic champion Arshad Nadeem, who will consult his coach before making a decision. However, no commitments have been finalized.
“It’s very exciting for me to just think that our athletes will be competing with the highest-level international athletes,” he said. “It’s a Category A event, so it will be good for the Indian athletes competing because you’ll get more points and that will help when it comes to World Championship qualifications.”
Neeraj Chopra, for the first time, took a proactive role in the organization of a competition, rather than simply participating. The event’s location was changed from Panchkula due to insufficient floodlighting; the required 600 lux was unavailable there, impacting broadcast standards for a world athletics event.
“I used to just compete, train, eat, sleep”, he said, with a laugh “but now I’m opening up to these new areas. It was challenging at first, but we must step out of our comfort zones if we want to do something different.”
A recent experience in Panchkula highlighted previously overlooked infrastructural details. The realization that specific lighting levels are crucial for international television broadcasts prompted a comprehensive review of event preparations. This review now includes assessments of facilities such as restrooms, gyms, hotel rooms, food quality, field conditions, running tracks, changing rooms, spectator seating, and audience engagement strategies.
The individual is personally invested in ensuring a positive experience, meticulously attending to even minor details. He humorously mentioned arranging for athletes’ arrival at Bengaluru’s attractive new Terminal 2 to create a favorable first impression.
He’s deeply involved in improving the event, going beyond simple logistical planning. He’s brainstorming innovative ideas, such as incorporating a celebratory element for athletes reaching 85 meters, demonstrating his enthusiasm for the project despite its challenges.
“People keep saying I’ve won everything,” he said. “But this is also a dream that’s happening. It was not on my radar, never a question for you guys either… it shows how new dreams keep forming, how we can keep pushing ourselves.”
A leading Indian track and field athlete believes hosting an annual international event in India will significantly boost the sport’s popularity within the country. Ticket sales to the general public will begin soon, with pricing and distribution details to be announced shortly. The athlete highlighted the improved accessibility for Indian fans, contrasting it with the inconvenient late-night viewing times of previous international competitions held abroad.
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