New Delhi: Veteran Devendra Jhjharia and ruled the world champion Sandeep Chaudhary was among the five Javelin thrurrers in the 12-strong Indian contingent left for Tokyo on Wednesday to compete in Paralympics.
The contingent also includes two high jumpers – Nishad Kumar and Ram PAL – and discus Thrower Yogesh Kathununiya.
One of the top prospects, Jhajharia has won a gold medal in Athens and Rio Paralympics.
The 40-year-old Javelin thrower has rewrited his world record 63.97m when he sent a spear to a distance of 65.71m in the qualifying event in June.
Its main competition comes from compatriot Ajit Singh and Sundar Gurjar.
With a little luck, India can reach the three medals in the men’s F-46 category, which for athletes with arm deficiency, interrupted muscle strength or disruption of passive movement range in arms when competing in a standing position.
After the historical performance of the Ceeraj Chopra at the Tokyo Olympics, Javelin’s thrower was in the center of attention.
“The Neeraj gold medal has placed the spotlight on the javelin thrower and became the most senior, I can say this guarantee that after Tokyo Paralympics, Javelin (throwing) will be the second most popular game in this country after Cricket,” Jhajhariah said.
The focus will also be on the chaudhary and annular sumit in the men’s F64 category where they have one rating and two worlds each.
The F-64 classification is for athletes with foot amputation, which competes with prosthetics in a standing position.
The path and field event began on August 27.