Exciting news is coming in for athletics fans, especially from Haryana! India's golden boy and Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra is set to make an appearance at the inaugural NC Classic javelin competition, which will be held at the Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula on May 24, 2025.

According to Olympics.com, this high-profile event has been confirmed by World Athletics and is expected to attract some of the biggest names in global javelin throwing, both men and women.

🌍 World-Class Event Lands in India

The NC Classic has been categorized as an “A-level” event by World Athletics, which places it on par with the Continental Tour Gold Series—just a tier below the elite Diamond League. Launched in 2020, the Continental Tour is the successor of the World Challenge Series and is divided into four categories: Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Challenger.

This event marks a major step forward for India in hosting world-class athletics meets, especially in a discipline where the country now has international recognition, thanks to Chopra's achievements.

🏅 Star-Studded Line-up Expected

Neeraj Chopra himself will spearhead the initiative, aiming to bring global attention to Indian athletics. Former Athletics Federation of India (AFI) president Adille Sumariwalla had previously hinted that the event would feature top 10 javelin throwers from across the world in both the men's and women's categories.

This will be the first time India hosts such a prestigious standalone javelin competition, and organizers hope it becomes a recurring fixture on the global athletics calendar.

🎯 Neeraj’s Dream Comes True

Neeraj Chopra has long dreamed of bringing a world-class javelin event to Indian soil. Speaking earlier this year, he said:

“It has always been my dream to host a world-class javelin competition in India. I believe this event will not only inspire budding athletes but also give Indian fans a unique experience to remember. I’m excited to see how big we can make this.”

Although it remains unclear whether Neeraj will officially compete in the event, sources confirm he will definitely take part in the ceremonial javelin throw during the opening ceremony.

🇮🇳 Neeraj's Last Outing in India

Neeraj was last seen competing on home turf in Bhubaneswar during the 2024 National Senior Athletics Championships, where he threw 82.27 meters as part of his preparation for the Paris Olympics.

Despite failing to defend his Olympic gold medal in Paris, the 27-year-old clinched silver with a season-best throw of 89.45 meters. A strong second attempt kept him in contention, but four subsequent foul throws cost him the top spot.

🗓 What's Next?

As the countdown to the NC Classic begins, anticipation is building among Indian fans and the global athletics community. With international athletes expected and Neeraj Chopra’s presence confirmed for the ceremonial segment, Panchkula is set to witness a sporting spectacle.

This could mark the beginning of a new era for athletics in India, especially in field events like javelin, where Chopra has already carved a legacy. If all goes well, the NC Classic could become a permanent, annual event, putting India on the international athletics map.