Neeraj Chopra Classic: World-Class Javelin Throwers to Compete in India OR Neeraj Chopra Classic Set to Ignite Indian Athletics Scene This Weekend OR Neeraj Chopra Hosts Inaugural Classic, Bringing Elite Javelin Competition to India

The Neeraj Chopra Classic, a prestigious World Athletics Continental Tour gold event, is set to commence, promising a spectacular showcase of world-class javelin throwers. The event will be held this Saturday.

Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra during a training session. (PTI Photo)

Neeraj Chopra, fulfilling the dual role of competitor and organizer, addressed the media at Sree Kanteerava Stadium. He and fellow athletes, including Germany's Thomas Rohler, engaged in light training under the guidance of coach Jan Zelezny.

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

He further elaborated on the decision to host the event in Karnataka: "I have observed the deep 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. Our vision is to expand this meet in the future, providing our athletes, who are excelling on the global stage, with opportunities to compete against top international athletes on Indian soil."

Fond Memories of Bengaluru

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

"I underwent training at the SAI South Centre here for 5-6 months in 2016-17. During that time, we explored the city, visiting malls and MG Road. We had a lot of fun, and I cherish those memories. Bengaluru is a fantastic city with pleasant weather and welcoming people."

Regarding his debut competition in Bengaluru, the 27-year-old stated, "This marks my first time competing in Bengaluru, and it's an international event. I am pleased with my preparation and eagerly anticipate Saturday."

A Call to Support

The world champion urged sports enthusiasts to attend the event: "Despite being far from home, the support I've received makes me feel at home here. This is the first event of its kind in India, and I invite all sports lovers in Bengaluru to come and support it. The world's best athletes are participating, and I believe everyone will enjoy it."

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

"Initially, we planned the event in Haryana, but we faced some technical challenges. We then reached out to the Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and everyone was incredibly helpful. From the initial contact, we received a positive response and were assured of full support. I have visited the stadium and observed the improvements being made. It's all coming together," Neeraj said. Karnataka Olympic Association president K Govindaraj and other top government officials were also present.