Neeraj Chopra successfully defended his javelin title at the Asian Games while rising star Kishore Jena took home the silver medal in a thrilling final that was controlled by two Indians. A day after Annu Rani won the gold medal in the women’s javelin, the national stadium in Hangzhou witnessed India’s tremendous development in the sport as Neeraj and Jena competed for Gold and Silver in the 12-man field.
On Wednesday, October 4, Neeraj Chopra, the Olympic and world champion, was threatened by Kishore Jena, who earlier this year made his first appearance at the World Championships in the men’s javelin event.
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Technical issues at the beginning of the men’s javelin final put both Neeraj and Kishore under pressure. Technical issues that caused a significant delay necessitated the cancellation of Neeraj’s first toss. Before it was awarded the white flag, Kishore Jena’s second throw was incorrectly labeled a foul. However, both of the celebrities overcame the early obstacles to place third.
At the halfway point of the men’s javelin final, Kishore was in the lead after recording a personal best of 86.77 meters. Later, he improved it with a throw of 87.54 meters. Both Neeraj, who was supporting his teammate from the side, and Jena were overjoyed. The Olympic winner, who has always praised his other competitors, was visibly pleased to see Jena set a personal record on the largest platform of his burgeoning career. It was a touching moment.
Neeraj Chopra did not, however, lose focus on the task at hand. With a stunning throw of 88,88 meters, his season best, he successfully defended his Asian Games championship.
Neeraj series: 82.38m, 84.49m, x, 88.88m, 80.80m, x
Jena series: 81.26m, 79.76m, 86.77m, 87.54m, x, x
With a best throw of 82.68 meters, Dean Genki Roderick of Japan won bronze in the men’s javelin final.