Neeraj Chopra Classic Set to Inspire with National Pride in Bengaluru
Neeraj Chopra's Vision for the NC Classic
As the Neeraj Chopra Classic approaches in Bengaluru, the two-time Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra shared his heartfelt sentiments about the event, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the national flag proudly on home soil.
Initially scheduled for May 24, the NC Classic was postponed to July 5 due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
In a video shared on social media, Chopra expressed, "There was once a dream of seeing the Indian flag soar high before the world. That dream remains, but now it must rise higher among our own people."
He further elaborated, stating, "The Neeraj Chopra Classic is not just about javelins hitting the ground; it’s about creating history. The world’s top javelin throwers will compete here, aiming for greatness."
Star-Studded Line-Up for the Inaugural Event
Tokyo 2020 gold medalist Neeraj Chopra will lead the competition at this prestigious event, facing formidable opponents from around the globe.
The event organizers recently announced a 12-member roster for the inaugural NC Classic, maintaining most of the original entries despite the postponement, with one notable change: Japan's Genki Dean has been replaced by Poland's Martin Konecny.
Prominent athletes such as Anderson Peters, Thomas Rohler, and Julius Yego, the 2015 world champion and Rio 2016 silver medalist, are confirmed to participate.
The line-up also features Curtis Thompson, the Pan American Games champion from the USA, Brazil's Luiz Mauricio da Silva, and Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage.
Local talents Kishore Jena, Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, and Sahil Silwal will join Neeraj in representing India.
Sachin Yadav recently earned a silver medal at the Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South Korea, finishing just behind Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem.
Event Details and Significance
The NC Classic, co-organized by Neeraj Chopra, JSW Sports, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), and World Athletics (WA), will take place at the Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.
Originally intended to be held at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula, Haryana, the venue was changed due to floodlight issues.
Designated as a WA 'A' category or Continental Tour Gold-level event, the NC Classic represents the highest level of international athletics competition ever hosted in India.
Confirmed Participants for the NC Classic
The entry list for the Neeraj Chopra Classic includes:
- Neeraj Chopra (IND)
- Anderson Peters (GRN)
- Luiz Mauricio da Silva (BRA)
- Thomas Rohler (GER)
- Curtis Thompson (USA)
- Martin Konecny (POL)
- Julius Yego (KEN)
- Rumesh Pathirage (SRI)
- Sachin Yadav (IND)
- Rohit Yadav (IND)
- Sahil Silwal (IND)
- Kishore Jena (IND)