Lt Col Neeraj Chopra Clinches Gold at Inaugural Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 in Bengaluru
In a significant achievement for Indian athletics, Lieutenant Colonel Neeraj Chopra once again excelled, this time at the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025 held in Bengaluru. The event, which attracted an impressive crowd of 14,593 at the Sri Kanteerava Stadium, marked a pivotal moment in India's sports culture, celebrating track and field with one of the nation's most esteemed athletes at the forefront.
Lt Col Chopra played a dual role at the event, serving as both a top competitor and co-organizer, ensuring the success of India's inaugural World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet. The Olympic and World Champion demonstrated his caliber with a single impressive throw to secure the gold medal. Despite starting with a foul, his second throw reached 82.99 meters, propelling him to the lead. When Sri Lanka's Rumesh Pathirage briefly took the lead with an 84.34-meter throw, Chopra reclaimed his position with an outstanding 86.18-meter throw, showcasing his resilience and competitive spirit in the challenging cold and windy conditions.
Although Kenya's Julius Yego made a strong attempt with an 84.51-meter throw, the gold medal was never seriously contested. Since 2021, Lt Col Chopra has consistently performed at a high level internationally, never placing below second in major competitions.
Equally notable was the vibrant energy among the spectators. With rap performances by Haryana's Dhanda Nyoliwala and energetic dance crews, the enthusiasm in Bengaluru was palpable, demonstrating that athletics could evoke pride and passion in India.
Despite limited pre-event promotion, the turnout and excitement were exceptional, with fans filling the stands well before the opening throw—an uncommon occurrence in the history of Indian track and field. For Lt Col Chopra, the event was both a personal and professional success, providing an opportunity to inspire others and contribute positively to the sport.
At a press conference, Chopra expressed his satisfaction, stating, "I am happy that the event has finished successfully," highlighting both the competition's success and its broader significance.
The Neeraj Chopra Classic was more than just a sports meet; it was a beacon of hope, exemplifying the potential of Indian athletics. Leading this transformative moment was a soldier-athlete who continues to push boundaries, both on the field and beyond.
