Double Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra experienced a touching moment on the streets of Bengaluru during a leisurely walk through a quiet lane in the city. Chopra crossed paths with whom he later described as `a kind-hearted uncle`.
The official Instagram handle of the Neeraj Chopra Classic captured the essence of this chance meeting, posting: “Sometimes, the best moments aren`t planned. A quiet street in Bengaluru. A kind-hearted uncle. And a javelin legend who never forgets where he comes from.”
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As they struck up a conversation, the elderly fan conveyed his respect and admiration for the 27-year-old. “We all respect and admire you. You have brought glory to the whole country,” he told Chopra.
Moved by the genuine praise, Chopra readily obliged when the gentleman requested a picture, concluding with the well-wisher’s words, `Keep doing well`, leaving Chopra with a smile and a reminder of the impact he continues to have on countless lives.
Meanwhile, the much-anticipated Neeraj Chopra Classic, India’s first-ever international javelin competition, is slated to be held on July 5 at Bengaluru’s Sree Kanteerava Stadium. Originally scheduled for May 24, the meet had to be postponed due to cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan.
Organised by Chopra and sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), the NC Classic holds the prestigious status of a World Athletics Gold-level event. It is poised to significantly bolster India’s reputation on the global athletics circuit, drawing an impressive roster of elite javelin throwers.
With a seating capacity of over 12,000, spectators can expect an electrifying showcase of skill and athletic prowess. Headlining the meet will be Chopra himself, who will face formidable competition from international stars such as Grenada’s Anderson Peters, Germany’s Olympic gold medallist Thomas Rohler, and Kenya’s Julius Yego, the 2015 world champion.
The final 12-member field remains largely unchanged from the original list, save for Poland’s Martin Konecny stepping in for Japan’s Genki Dean. Other notable names include USA’s Pan American champion Curtis Thompson, Brazil’s Luiz Mauricio da Silva, and Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage. India’s hopes will also rest on homegrown talents Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, and Sahil Silwal, who will join Chopra in taking on the world’s best.
