Two-time Olympic Champion put her weight behind Indian Olympic Champion Neeraj Chopra ahead of Paris 2024 stating that, ‘He knows precisely what needs to be done to defend his gold medal’
Bengaluru : Arriving in Bengaluru for the highly anticipated “16th edition of the Tata Consultancy Services World 10K Bengaluru 2024”, set to take place on Sunday, April 28th, Dame Valerie Adams, the renowned shot putter and four-time World Champion, exudes enthusiasm. As the International event Brand Ambassador, Adams eagerly anticipates the electrifying atmosphere of the World Athletics Gold Label race, boasting a substantial prize pool of 210,000 USD. “This marks my inaugural visit to Bengaluru, and I am truly thrilled to witness the remarkable determination of thousands of participants as they strive to surpass their personal milestones this Sunday,” shares Adams during the press conference in Bengaluru.
She illuminated the essence of community spirit inherent in participatory sports at the TCS World 10K Bengaluru, underscoring the inclusive nature of running and its power to foster unity among diverse communities. “It’s imperative for a city and its residents to commemorate such milestones as they signify progress. Running, at its core, is a universal activity. It welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and abilities,” articulated Adams, a distinguished recipient of the coveted Diamond League gold medal for five consecutive years.
Adams also candidly spoke of her back-to-back Olympic gold medals in Beijing and London, further acknowledging the pressure on Indian Olympic Champion Neeraj Chopra who will defend his gold medal in javelin at the Paris Olympics. “There’s undoubtedly immense pressure on Neeraj; the weight on his shoulders must be substantial. The noise can be overwhelming at times. However, Neeraj is seasoned; he knows precisely what needs to be done, and he will do everything in his power to go out there and perform for himself and for his country,” said the 39-year-old New Zealander Olympian.
On her personal relationship with running, Adams, who is also the first woman to win four consecutive individual titles at WA World Championships opined, “Polynesians are not usually runners, but since I have retired, running makes me feel good about myself. Running is one of those things that you can do anywhere. It’s free. All you must do is put your shoes on and walk out the door and the impact that it has on you is so positive. That is what makes it addictive.”
Speaking on what makes an athlete successful, the three-time Commonwealth Games winner remarked, “It takes a very, very long time. You’ will need to be very persistent and passionate about your sport. It’s not for the faint hearted and it can get very lonely. If you are up for it, then do come along, otherwise you are better off with a social team sport.”
