In a crucial move to boost India's athletic prospects on the global stage, the Mission Olympic Cell has endorsed a 12-day training camp in Magglingen, Switzerland for World Athletics Champion and javelin thrower, Neeraj Chopra. This significant preparatory training is on the calendar prior to Chopra's much-anticipated appearance at the Diamond League 2023 final in Eugene, USA, this coming September.
An approved budget of Rs 5.89 lakhs has been earmarked for this indispensable training initiative, slated to run from September 1 through September 12. Neeraj Chopra, who captured worldwide attention with a sterling second-place finish at the Diamond League event in Zurich—where he recorded an impressive throw of 85.71m—is expected to further sharpen his skills in Switzerland.
In another positive development, Parul Chaudhary has been confirmed as part of the TOPS Core group. Chaudhary recently qualified for the Paris Olympics, establishing a new National Record time of 9:15.31s in the women's 3000m steeplechase event at the Budapest meet. Her accomplishment has drawn global admiration and acclaim.
Further augmenting India's sports preparation, the Mission Olympic Cell has also authorized financial aid for acclaimed table tennis player Sharath Kamal. The funding will facilitate his participation in international events, procurement of essential equipment, and hiring of a personal coach, Chris Pfeiffer, all aimed towards a strong performance in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Additionally, esteemed badminton doubles partners, Satwik Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, have been granted financial support specifically for the employment of masseur Nishant Nagpuri in the run-up to the China Open 2023. The prestigious badminton event is scheduled from September 5 to 10.
These funding approvals and athlete inclusions are part of a larger strategic endeavor by the Mission Olympic Cell. The objective is to furnish elite athletes with the necessary resources and opportunities, ensuring they are adequately prepared for international competitions. Through their remarkable performances and unflagging dedication, these athletes substantially contribute to enhancing the international reputation of Indian sports, serving as exemplars of India's burgeoning athletic prowess.
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