New Delhi: Neeraj Chopra of India is eager to join the exclusive 90-meter javelin club, but according to his coach, he would gladly accept a lesser throw in Paris if it meant he could retain his Olympic championship. Chopra’s coach Klaus Bartonietz said that while he is often questioned about the 90-meter mark in media interviews, winning the gold at the Olympics continues to be his top aim.
“A mark is not as significant as a medal.” The medal remains, but the mark rises almost each time, according to Bartonietz. “No one in Tokyo asks Neeraj how far his throw went. It was sufficient at 87.58 meters. You should be OK with that if it’s 85 meters and still wins you an Olympic gold medal.
Bartonietz said that the pressure of competing on the highest platform in sports made it difficult for athletes to set personal bests in the Olympics. Since the competition javelin was revamped in 1986, 24 competitors have reached the 90-meter mark 125 times; however, only three of those throws have occurred in Olympic competition. If Neeraj is able to achieve his PB in Paris, I would be pleased. It ought to be sufficient, Bartonietz said.
Bartonietz said that he would not be shocked if the Haryana thrower connected with the enchanted target in Paris. “I think he’s about right,” the German said. He has been throwing 87-to-high 88s reliably for a number of years. Being a member of the 90m club would be fantastic. Reuters
