TOPS approves extension of Neeraj Chopra's training in Turkey

Sports Authority of India's Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) has approved Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra's proposal to provide financial assistance of Rs.5.5 lakh approximately for extension of his training camp in Turkey. The star javelin thrower Chopra had made a joint proposal alongside the Athletics Federation of India (AFI). He is currently training at the Gloria Sports Arena in Antalya.

Chopra and his coach, Dr. Klaus Bartonietz have been in Turkey since the end of March and will now continue their training at the Antalya camp for another 14 days as he prepares for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, Asian Games and Athletics World Championships. The financial assistance will cover Chopra's training cost at Gloria Sports Arena along with his and Klaus's accommodation, travel, food, and medical insurance expenses among others, a SAI release stated on Thursday.

It will also include a daily allowance of $50 each for both Chopra and Dr. Klaus for any other expenses they might require during their stay. Last year, Chopra became only the second Indian to win an individual gold in the Olympics, out-performing the field by quite a distance to notch up the first track-and-field Games medal for the country.