Glad that I am able to inspire children to show interest in javelin, says Neeraj Chopra
The Hindu
Neeraj Chopra, Olympic, World and Asian Games javelin champion, believes Indian athletes are now fearless and can take on the best in the world due to self-belief and support from SAI, Govt. and corporates. He aims to cross 90m barrier and inspire more to take up athletics. He urges parents to be patient and support kids to dream big and work hard.
Indian athletes are fearless now and can take on the best in the world as there is a lot of self-belief in their capabilities, said Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic, World and Asian Games javelin champion.
“It is also because of the great support from the Sports Authority of India, the Governments and a lot of corporate groups coming forward to promote sports a long way,” the 25-year-old said after inaugurating the Under Armour showroom in the City here on Monday.
“I am honestly grateful to SAI for organising so many camps in the run-up to all major events. It was a revolution of a kind,” he added.
Questioned whether he would cross the 90m barrier soon, a smiling Neeraj said he would definitely target it but would like to take it step by step.
“Well, I can only speak about javelin and whether my achievements are going to inspire many more to take up athletics. Yes, I am glad to say that a lot of boys and girls are showing great interest in javelin after my feats,” he added.
“Yes, it had been a very tough journey and interestingly the first thoughts of how it would be to make it to the Olympics came here in this City in 2015 when I competed in the Junior Fed Cup meet and won a gold,” Neeraj said.
What keeps you motivated? “We all know how legends like Michael Phelps (swimmer), and Usain Bolt (athletics) have won multiple medals in Olympics and World championships. So, as competitions keep coming, we keep working hard and get more competitive,” Neeraj said.
Almaya Munnettam (Lay People to the Fore), group in the Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese of the Syro-Malabar Church opposed to the synod-recommended Mass, rejected a circular issued by Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil and apostolic administrator Bosco Puthur on June 9 to implement the unified Mass in the archdiocese from July 3.
Pakistan coach Gary Kirsten stated that “not so great decision making” contributed to his side’s defeat to India in the Group-A T20 World Cup clash here on Sunday. The batting unit came apart in the chase, after being well placed at 72 for two. With 48 runs needed from eight overs, Pakistan found a way to panic and lose. “Maybe not so great decision making,” Kirsten said at the post-match press conference, when asked to explain the loss.