Everyone is talking about Neeraj Chopra and his heroics at the Tokyo Olympics but many didn’t know the legacy of India’s best Javelin thrower Devendra Jhajaria who is two time gold medal winner at the Paralympic games.
Jajaria won gold medals at 2004 Athens Games and 2016 Rio Games. He is also the world record holder in para-javelin throw with 62.15m.
“Some days ago, I was remembering 2004. My father was the only one who came to see me off for the Athens Games,” Devendra said. “Neither the state, nor the central government gave any money. My father is no more, but I still remember his words, ‘If you do well, the country and government will come and support you’.”
“Today, when I see governments motivating athletes, I feel my father would be very happy wherever he is now,” Jhajharia said. “The Target Olympics Podium Scheme (TOPS) is really good and Khelo India is benefiting young athletes as well.”
He added: “Sports has come a long way. Athletes are getting all the basic facilities. Back in 2004, I didn’t even know what a physio or fitness trainer was. Today, SAI has all the facilities at their centres. The government, moreover, is supporting athletes and para-athletes equally.”
“We need to do research. Sports universities are required in India. We do not have a shortage of talent, but sports science is an area where a lot of work needs to be done,” he said.
“I have the experience, so I am pretty confident,” Devendra said. “I will keep myself calm and focused. Last year, I was tested Covid-positive. As a result, my training got hampered. But I overcame it and worked really hard. Weight was also an issue for me. My coach had said that if I gain even one kg of weight, then I should forget about a medal. So, I started lifting the gas cylinder at home to control my weight. I reduced it by 7 kilos and I now weigh 79.”
The para-javelin thrower was also awarded with Padma Shri and was the first para-athlete to be accorded this national award.
