Neeraj Chopra has achieved a remarkable feat, conquering every major title in the world of javelin throwing, from the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 to the Diamond League, Commonwealth Games and the Asian Games in 2023. Despite his exceptional track record, Chopra has opted for lesser selective competitions in the upcoming year, prioritising his preparation for the Paris Olympics.
When asked about his comparatively slender frame, Chopra cited the example of the legendary player Jan Zelezny, emphasising that athletes come in various shapes and sizes, and physical appearance doesn't define performance in the sport. Pointing to fellow Indian javelin thrower Kishore Jena, who secured a silver medal in the Asian Games with a remarkable throw of 87.54 meters, Chopra highlighted Jena's remarkable throwing capabilities despite his slender build.
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"There are all types of athletes. Look at Jan Zelezny. Another example is our very own Kishore Jena. He is very thin, but his throws are amazing."
Chopra added that javelin throwing is not solely reliant on physical strength. "Its weight is 800 grams. This is technically a game. Strength is important in this. Every type of body can walk in it. Technique and speed matter in this." Talking about his own strength, Neeraj said that he feels that his armspeed is very good.
When comparing Jena to other surprise performers in the Asian Games, Chopra underscored Jena's remarkable speed and rhythm on the runway, talking about his potential and continuous improvement in performance. Despite occasional challenges with the runway, Jena's impressive speed has been a key factor in his success.
"Jena's speed on the run-up is very good. His rhythm on the runway is good. Sometimes he himself has problems with the run-up, but Jenna's runway is amazing. He is very fast. He has a lot of potential and is continuously improving his performance.
Neeraj Chopra's insights shed light on the nuanced dynamics of javelin throwing, emphasizing that technique and speed are crucial factors and that athletes with varying body types can excel in this sport. Kishore Jena's success serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of athleticism and the importance of consistent improvement and dedication in the pursuit of excellence.
