I want to leave a footprint: Thomas Rohler ahead of Neeraj Chopra Classic

Bengaluru: The accolades achieved by Thomas Rohler may generate envy. While he garners a well-deserved attention for what he has accomplished, the German javelin thrower prefers his identity to be that of a giver. 

Rohler has an Olympic gold (2016 Rio), has been the European champion (2018) and breached the magical 90-meter-mark multiple times in a career spanning over a decade. But sharing knowledge and giving back to the community that gave him the recognition comes across as Rohler’s standout personality trait. 

“I always love to share. Only when I share can I communicate and leave a footprint,” said the 33-year-old at a media address ahead of the Neeraj Chopra Classic on Friday. 

“Distances, medals and all these are just numbers but I would love to have a footprint in the sport and this is why I don’t hesitate to talk to talents and open up because we do have the experience in javelin but we don’t have the holy secret,” stressed the athlete who engages with people through his own YouTube channel. 

So for someone who recognises the growth and potential of the sport here in India, Neeraj Chopra’s invitation for the NC Classic, he said, was a positive response given without hesitation.

“For us (the international athletes) it’s a pleasure and joy to come to India where javelin is on the rise. I know what he (Neeraj) is trying to do. It’s important for his athlete friends to support him and we are here to do just that,” offered Rohler.

Speaking about the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meet that the Indian star has managed to bring to the country, Rohler hoped that it would grow in the future and make a broader impact.

“After Neeraj being on top of the world in the sport, this is the second logical step to bring the sport to the people not only on television but also in person. And the third step, is the responsibility and also a challenge because you will have all these talents but who coaches them. Who builds the infrastructure? These talents will demand support because they want to get better. 

“So I’m really looking forward to seeing the entire journey, the full development to make this sustainable and not just a small trend. So that’s why the third step is so important. Because it’s not over only by inspiring talent but you need to support talent.”