India’s two-time Olympic javelin medallist Neeraj Chopra has appointed Czech Republic great Jan Zelezny as his coach, the 26-year-old confirmed on Saturday.
Chopra had been coached by German Klaus Bartonietz, who retired this week.
Zelezny is among the biggest names in javelin having won multiple Olympic medals.
Zelezny won gold at the 1992, 1996 and 2000 Olympics and silver in 1998. The 58-year-old also holds the men’s javelin record with a mark of 98.48 metres, achieved in 1996.
In contrast to the physical giants who dominated the sport of javelin throw before him, Zelezny was almost puny – just about six foot – with more of a runner’s build than a throwing monster. His ability to propel the javelin to distances never accomplished again wasn’t due to brute strength but elasticity and a well drilled throwing technique.
“Growing up, I admired Jan’s technique and precision and spent a lot of time watching videos of him. He was the best in the sport for so many years, and I believe that working with him will be invaluable because our throwing styles are similar, and his knowledge is unmatched”Neeraj Chopra
READ | Neeraj could win more Olympic gold medals and break my record, says Zelezny
Last year, in an interview with Sportstar, the javelin legend suggested that Chopra could win more Olympic golds and break his record, too.
“I have already spoken about Neeraj as a great talent many years ago. When I saw him early in his career, I realised great possibilities for top results. I also said that if I should start to coach somebody from outside Czechia, my first choice would be Neeraj. I like his story and I see big potential, as he is young and able to improve,” said Zelezny.
Zelezny has also coached renowned javelin exponents like Jakub Vadlejch (Tokyo silver), Vítezslav Vesely (bronze) and two-time Olympic champion and three-time world champion Barbora Špotakova.
“There have been many athletes contacting me for coaching, so for me to take this up means that it is a great honour to have him in my team. We are getting to know each other more closely and will start in person at a traditional winter camp in South Africa. I believe in his progress, especially in the technical aspect, so that he can continue achieving top positions at the main championships,” added the former Czech Olympian.
Comments
SHARE