When he let the javelin fly on a humid Tokyo evening 10 months ago, Neeraj Chopra was convinced the throw that won him the Olympic gold was a National Record.
On his much-anticipated return to international competition, in Turku on Tuesday, Chopra let out a similar cry as the javelin pierced through the sunny sky of the Finnish city that’s considered the spiritual home of javelin throw. And just like his throw in Tokyo, he lifted both his arms to celebrate.
This time, it was indeed a National Record.
Neeraj Chopra set a new national record as he threw 89.30 metres at the Paavo Nurmi Games in Finland. Chopra’s earlier national record was 88.07m which he had set in Patiala in March last year. Neeraj Chopra won the silver medal with his throw at the event.
This was Neeraj’s first competitive outing since winning the historic gold medal at the Tokyo Games. Finland’s Oliver Helander won the gold medal at the event with a throw of 89.83 metres.
The 24-year-old Chopra’s first competitive event after just over 10 months was nothing short of extraordinary as he nearly touched the coveted 90m mark, considered the gold standard in the world of javelin throw.
The Paavo Nurmi Games are named after the legendary Finnish middle and long distance runner. It is a World Athletics Continental Tour Gold series event, one of the most prestigious competitions outside the Diamond League Meetings.
