Could Julius Yego Achieve 90m Throws at NC Classic 2025?
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Synopsis
As the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic approaches, Julius Yego expresses disappointment over top athletes' withdrawals but remains optimistic about potential 90m throws. With new competitors stepping in, the event promises to showcase talent and elevate javelin's popularity in India.
Key Takeaways
- Neeraj Chopra Classic marks India's first international javelin competition.
- Top athletes like Anderson Peters have withdrawn due to injuries.
- Julius Yego is optimistic about the remaining competitors' potential.
- The event aims to popularize javelin in India.
- World Athletics has sanctioned the competition as a Gold level meet.
Bengaluru, July 4 (NationPress) With the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic set to take place on Saturday, Julius Yego, the 2016 Olympic silver medalist from Kenya, voiced his concern over the absence of elite competitors, notably Grenadian star Anderson Peters. Despite this setback, he believes the talented field still has the potential to deliver impressive 90m throws.
Anderson Peters, a two-time world champion, had to withdraw from the World Athletics category A javelin event due to an ankle injury shortly before the competition. Cyprian Mrzyglod from Poland will take his place in the event.
Just a day earlier, India's Asian Games silver medalist Kishore Jena also had to bow out due to an ankle injury. His compatriot, Yash Vir Singh, has stepped in to fill Jena's spot in the final lineup.
“It’s unfortunate that Peters is not able to join us. He’s a great friend, and we were all looking forward to seeing him compete,” Yego shared with IANS. “However, health comes first, and I wish him a speedy recovery so he can return even stronger. We make this sport exciting,” he added.
Yego remains optimistic about the event's competitive spirit. “The athletes present here are exceptional. Thomas Rohler has thrown 90m, and Neeraj has achieved the same. Others have also thrown distances of 84m or 85m. They are certainly capable of reaching 90m. Who knows, perhaps they’ll do it tomorrow!” he stated.
Having learned javelin techniques from YouTube, Yego has been instrumental in promoting the sport in Africa. He concluded by emphasizing the event's goal: to enhance the popularity of javelin in India. “It’s about enjoying the sport and elevating javelin's profile in India,” he remarked.
As a World Athletics-sanctioned Gold level meet, the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 marks India's debut in hosting an international javelin competition, officially recognized by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI).
Point of View
I view the Neeraj Chopra Classic as a significant milestone for Indian athletics. While the absence of top competitors is regrettable, the event still showcases remarkable talent. It's crucial for the sport's growth and popularity in India, and it presents an opportunity to inspire future generations of athletes.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Neeraj Chopra Classic?
The Neeraj Chopra Classic is India's first-ever international javelin competition, officially sanctioned by the Athletics Federation of India.
Why did Anderson Peters withdraw from the event?
Anderson Peters withdrew due to an ankle injury, which occurred just days before the competition.
Who replaced Anderson Peters in the competition?
Cyprian Mrzyglod from Poland will replace Anderson Peters in the lineup.
What are the expectations for the javelin throws at the event?
Despite the absence of some top athletes, competitors like Julius Yego believe that many can achieve impressive throws, potentially reaching the 90m mark.
How is the Neeraj Chopra Classic expected to impact javelin in India?
The event aims to promote and popularize javelin in India, inspiring more athletes to take up the sport.
