Tokyo Olympics: Neeraj Chopra easily qualifies for javelin throw final

India’s Neeraj Chopra started his Tokyo Olympics campaign on the perfect note. The athlete qualified for the final of the men’s javelin throw event after his first attempt. Neeraj, who was placed in Group A of the qualifiers, made the final with a massive throw of 86.65m. It is worth noting that the qualifying mark is 83m. Thus, he passed the qualifying mark by a good 3m. The first throw being enough to secure qualification, he thus did not attempt a second and third throw after that. In fact, he left the stadium with his coaches right after the first round itself. (Tokyo 2020 full coverage)

This was Neeraj’s first appearance at the Olympics and it is safe to say he nailed it. The Indian is one of few in the track and field event from whom a medal is expected. He also became the first Indian to make it to the final of the javelin throw event.

But whether or not he can deliver on the same remains to be seen. Qualifying and final form can often vary and fluctuate, something Neeraj will no doubt want to avoid.

The final of the event is on August 7. Another Indian, Shivpal Singh, is in action later today and will hope to join Neeraj in the final.

India at the Tokyo Olympics

The Tokyo Olympics, which was delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is now up and running. The Games have not been without their share of controversies, however.

The event is happening despite plenty of protests from the Japanese people against it. And the angst is not without reason. Tokyo is currently in a state of emergency due to a rise in COVID cases.

The Games will by and large be played out in the absence of fans, always a major psychological blow to athletes. There’s also been a number of cases reported in the Olympic village itself.

Nevertheless, the Games remain an event that many around the world will be keen to watch. From July 23 to August 8, many will be hooked onto their televisions to follow the events.