Ahead of the much-awaited Neeraj Chopra Classic (NC Classic) in Bengaluru, Neeraj Chopra shared his thoughts about the event. In a video posted on Instagram, he reflected on his long-standing goal. He said, “Once upon a time, there was a dream that the Indian flag should fly high proudly in front of the world.”

However, he added that the stage has now shifted. “Even today, it is the same dream, but the stage has changed. Now, that flag has to fly higher on its own soil, among its own people.”

Postponement Due to Border Tensions

Originally, the event was set for May 24. However, due to cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan, organisers postponed it to July 5. Despite the delay, excitement around the competition continues to grow.

Chopra Describes NC Classic as a Stage for History

Neeraj believes the event will make history. He said, “Neeraj Chopra Classic is an event where every javelin not only falls on the ground, but also writes history.”

He also invited fans to witness greatness, adding, “See, the world’s best javelin throwers, on the same ground, for a new Taj.”

Top International Athletes Confirmed

As of now, organisers have confirmed a 12-member line-up. The final entry list remains almost identical to the earlier one, with only one change: Martin Konecny of Poland replaces Genki Dean of Japan.

Notably, world-renowned athletes like:

Anderson Peters (Grenada),
Thomas Rohler (Germany),
and Julius Yego (Kenya)
will compete as initially planned.

Strong International Presence Continues

Furthermore, the competition will see participation from:

Curtis Thompson (USA),
Luiz Mauricio da Silva (Brazil),
and Rumesh Pathirage (Sri Lanka).

This diverse field adds global strength to the Bengaluru meet.

Indian Javelin Stars Will Also Compete

Alongside Neeraj, several Indian athletes will represent the host country:

Kishore Jena
Sachin Yadav
Rohit Yadav
Sahil Silwal

Notably, Sachin Yadav recently won a silver medal at the Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South Korea, finishing just behind Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem.

Venue Shift from Haryana to Bengaluru

Initially, organisers planned to hold the event at Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula, Haryana. However, due to technical problems with the stadium’s floodlights, they shifted the venue to Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.

India to Host Its Highest-Level Athletics Meet

Moreover, this event holds special status. The NC Classic is part of the World Athletics (WA) Continental Tour Gold. Therefore, it becomes the most prestigious international athletics event ever hosted in India.