As soon as the javelin left his hand, Neeraj raised his arms in celebration, knowing it was a historic throw. The javelin landed firmly at 87.58 metres, surpassing the mark set by his first throw. It was a golden moment for Indian athletics. In the 125-year history of the main Olympic stadium, where only athletics events are held, the tricolour had never been hoisted before.
Veteran sports journalist Sanjay Pandurang Dudhane, who witnessed this electrifying moment first-hand, describes it as one that still sends shivers down his spine.