The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has made a significant move in enhancing the country’s javelin throw capabilities by appointing seasoned coach Sergey Makarov. Known for his comprehensive expertise and rich history in the sport, Makarov brings a wealth of knowledge to shape the future of Indian athletes.

Experience and Background

Makarov, 51, is a decorated athlete himself, having won back-to-back bronze medals for the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) at the Sydney 2000 and Athens 2004 Olympics. His crowning achievement as an athlete was winning the title of the world men’s javelin throw champion.

His throwing prowess has not diminished over the years, maintaining a personal best of 92.61m, achieved in 2002, which still stands as the national record in Russia.

Coming from a family of athletic excellence, Makarov follows in the footsteps of his father, Aleksandr Fyodorovich Makarov, who earned a silver medal in javelin throw at the Moscow 1980 Olympics.

New Role and Impact

Makarov arrived in India earlier this week to take up his position as the foreign coach at the National Institute of Sports in Patiala, Punjab. Radhakrishnan Nair, the chief national coach for Indian athletics, highlights the value Makarov will bring to the program, stating, “Aleksandrovich’s extensive experience as both an athlete and coach is poised to significantly elevate the development of javelin throw within our country.”

Under his new role, Makarov will play a pivotal role in overseen the Indian athletics program through the new Olympic cycle. His first major assignment will be the World Athletics Championships 2025 in Tokyo in September.

Makarov will work closely with Indian talent including Neeraj Chopra, Kishore Jena, Annu Rani, and other elite javelin throwers as well as upcoming young talents at the national camp.

Chopra’s Coaching Team

It’s worth noting that Neeraj Chopra, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion, already has a well-regarded coach in his corner—Jan Zelezny, another legendary figure in javelin throw. Originally coached by Dr. Klaus Bartonietz, who retired last year, Chopra has been working with Zelezny on a need-to-basis.

Legacy of Coaching in India

Makarov’s appointment is not the first significant hire for boosting India’s javelin throw capabilities. Earlier, German icon Uwe Hohn, holder of the eternal world record, served as the same role for four years from 2017 to 2021.