Every single time Neeraj Chopra geared up to hurl the Javelin over a long distance at the Neeraj Chopra Classic, chants of “Neeraj, Neeraj” echoed through the length and breadth of the Kanteerava Stadium. And when he hurled the Javelin over 86 m to take first place, there was a cacophony of sounds.
In fact, Sachin Yadav, the promising Javelin thrower, also was encouraged with chants of “Sachin, Sachin”. It brought back old memories of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar bringing an entire nation to a standstill with his heroic feats. The essence of the point being a game outside of willow and leather also was receiving fervent support from the fans in India.
Even a decade ago, it seemed improbable to think of approximately 15000 fans turning out for a Javelin competition in India. Undoubtedly, the colossal figure of Neeraj has galvanised the country with his feats.
The narrative surrounding the electric atmosphere at the Neeraj Chopra Classic extended far beyond those chants. It also was about how fans had come from different parts of the country. Three budding Javelin throwers had travelled 300 km from Chennai to make a beeline entry into the stadium. The troika kept asking yours truly as to whether they could get an opportunity to speak to Neeraj, Thomas Rohler or Julius Yego. The threesome’s intention was to improve their throwing technique.
One more fan had travelled all the way from Rajasthan. Once again, his aim was to meet Neeraj and understand the nuances of Javelin. Incidentally, when my colleague, Abhishek Mishra, and I, initially entered the stadium, there seemed to be a lack of buzz surrounding the tournament. However, the size of the crowd slowly but steadily got bigger.
Another salient feature of the build-up was a Yakshagana troupe on display: A folk dance that is usually popular in Coastal districts of Karnataka and the nearby Kasargod district in Kerala.
The highlight of the event wasn’t just restricted to the colourful atmosphere. But it also was about the organisational skills on view. There were volunteers with placards that read – How can I help you? The police force on duty also ensured that fans moved inside the stadium in an organised manner.
The event being successfully conducted also turned out to be another feather in the cap of Neeraj. He had the extra responsibility of supervising all the arrangements – Right from making sure that the food wasn’t too spicy for the athletes to the facilities at the ground.
Here’s what Neeraj had to say about the challenges of organising the event. “The toughest decision was to think about such an event and to compete in it,” he said in a press meet. “Organising and playing together is tough. The mind of an athlete is generally slow. I have always focused on playing. But now, I have to take care of everything.
“I think about the food also, thinking it should not be too spicy for other athletes. I am telling them that if there is very spicy food, I always think about you guys. Not too spicy for you. As an organiser, I have to think about these small things. But I like it.”
As the clock struck around 9.30 PM, Neeraj was standing on the Podium after finishing in pole position. Yego and Rumesh Pathirage took the next two positions. But the Neeraj Chopra Classic was more than just about who ended up first or second. Hopefully, this event will turn out to be the root for Track and Field competitions branching out through every nook and cranny of the country.
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