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The recent men's javelin throw event has become the center of controversy after India's star javelin thrower, Neeraj Chopra, faced unexpected technical challenges during his performance. Senior Vice President of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), Anju Bobby George, alleged that Chinese officials intentionally targeted Indian athletes, making it challenging to secure wins in China.
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The event took a confusing turn when Chopra's initial throw, which was legitimate, mysteriously disappeared from the system. After completing his attempt, Chopra anticipated his distance to be displayed on the board. However, even after an extended wait, the figures were nowhere to be seen. This disruption caused a temporary halt in the event, prompting a visibly bewildered Chopra to seek clarity from the referees.
Following intensive discussions, the referees attributed the mishap to an equipment malfunction that failed to register the distance of Neeraj's throw. Consequently, he was asked to repeat his attempt.
"I'm extremely happy about all our athletes and this Asian Games. We are doing really well, and especially in athletics. Now we are here, you've got 29 medals. 30 was our prediction. One shot tomorrow. We have one more. Even so other events also have 100 medals If you can touch them, that will be something great," Anju Bobby George told the media.
"This is not only with the Neeraj. Firstly, it happened with our workers. Secondly, it happened with our Jyothi, and yesterday it happened with our javelin thrower, Annu Rani. And today it happened with Jena and Neeraj. So this is not just, uh I think they are purposefully doing this. I'm deeply, uh, saddened to see such kinds of incidents happening in the Asian Games," she added.
The anomalies didn't stop there. Kishore Jena, another prominent Indian athlete who clinched a silver medal alongside Chopra, also faced an official scrutiny. Jena's second throw was initially ruled out, citing that he had crossed the line. However, in a turn of events, this decision was subsequently overturned.
Amidst these disruptions, Anju Bobby George voiced strong concerns over the incidents, insinuating deliberate attempts by officials to hinder the performances of Indian athletes. The allegations amplify the existing tension and competitiveness in international sports events, with the recent javelin throw incidents shedding light on potential biases against athletes.
"We are planning to protest against the officials. Now the competition is over. We've got gold and silver for Neeraj, Jena and Annu Rani. But this cannot because we knew. uh, our winning medals in China is very difficult. Even if you do better, they will do some mischief," she said.
In summary, while technical glitches can occur, the sequence of events during the javelin throw has raised eyebrows. As the allegations suggest potential foul play, it emphasizes the need for transparency and fairness in international sports events to ensure athletes are judged solely on their performance and not external manipulations.
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