In a groundbreaking moment for Indian athletics, Olympic and world champion Neeraj Chopra won the inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday. The event, dedicated solely to the javelin throw, attracted 14,573 spectators and featured 12 elite throwers, including seven international athletes.
Golden Throw of 86.18m Secures Victory for Neeraj
Amid strong headwinds, Neeraj Chopra produced a stunning 86.18m throw in his third attempt to clinch gold. Kenya’s Julius Yego took silver with a season-best of 84.51m, while Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage claimed bronze with an impressive 84.34m.
“There was too much head wind. But I’m very happy with my effort,” said Neeraj, who also co-hosted the event. “It has been a great experience to make athletics reach more people. I’m grateful and thank each one of you for turning out today.”
Starting with a foul on his first attempt due to heavy wind, Neeraj improved to 82.99m in his second throw. In his third attempt, with a powerful release and a flatter trajectory, the javelin soared past the 86m mark — a throw Neeraj instantly knew was the winner.
Julius Yego, the 36-year-old Kenyan veteran, showed great composure under difficult conditions. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Pathirage impressed with maturity beyond his years. Their spirited performances were a testament to the rising global standard of javelin throwing.
What once seemed like an unlikely dream became reality as India hosted its first international javelin-only event. The Neeraj Chopra Classic brought together top talent and delivered electrifying action, establishing a new chapter in India’s sporting story.
Results:
- Neeraj Chopra (India) – 86.18m
- Julius Yego (Kenya) – 84.51m
- Rumesh Pathirage (Sri Lanka) – 84.34m
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