Who is Sergey Makarov? All you need to know about India's likely next javelin throw coach

Sergey Makarov is a two-time Olympic medallist.

Neeraj Chopra recently parted ways with his long-time coach Klaus Bartonietz who had guided the 26-year-old since 2019. Under Bartonietz’s expert mentorship, Neeraj won the Olympic gold in men’s javelin throw at Tokyo 2020, silver at Paris 2024, a Diamond League title in 2022 and gold medals at both the World Championships and Asian Games in 2023.

However, Neeraj faced a tough 2024 season and secured second-place finishes in various prominent events. Acknowledging the need for a fresh perspective, Neeraj is now seeking a new coach as Bartonietz at the age of 75 himself recommended this change due to his age and family commitments.

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has made a significant move by shortlisting Sergey Makarov, a former World Champion and Olympic medallist as the new coach for India’s javelin throwers. Here’s what we know about the potential new addition to India’s athletics team:

Achievements and titles of Makarov

As a retired Russian athlete, Sergey Makarov is a distinguished figure in the javelin throw discipline with two Olympic medals-bronze at both the 2000 Sydney and 2004 Athens Games. Makarov also claimed the title of World Champion in 2003 in Paris along with a bronze at the 2005 World Championships in Helsinki.

His personal best throw of 92.61 meters achieved in 2002 not only set the Russian record but also places him eighth on the all-time list.

Throughout his career, Makarov faced fierce competition from legends like Jan Zelezny and Steve Backley and ultimately proved his resilience with a major breakthrough at the age of 30.

Father’s influence on javelin career of Makarov

The strong athletic background of his family has influenced Makarov’s own career. His father and coach , Aleksandr won the silver medal in javelin throw at the 1980 Summer Olympics. Makarov is married to Oksana Ovchinnikova, a former holder of the Russian record in women’s javelin. 

Makarov’s vision for India’s javelin team

As the newest addition to India’s javelin coaching staff, Sergey Makarov will take a broader approach than his predecessor, Klaus Bartonietz. Rather than focusing solely on Neeraj Chopra, Makarov will work with all of India’s javelin throwers and aim to elevate the overall performance of the team.

Also Read: Neeraj Chopra’s top five throws in 2024 season

It remains to be seen if Neeraj will collaborate with Makarov or seek individual coaching elsewhere. Interestingly, Bartonietz began his tenure by coaching multiple athletes before eventually focusing exclusively on Neeraj.

Challenges and goals for Makarov

Sergey Makarov will step into this role with significant challenges ahead. His predecessor, Klaus Bartonietz was instrumental in guiding Neeraj Chopra through a serious elbow injury and a long-term groin issue and helped him achieve success in all major competitions.

Therefore, Makarov’s key goal will be to help Neeraj reach the elusive 90-meter mark in javelin throw while also preventing overtraining and injuries. The decision to appoint him is however awaiting approval from the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

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