By Khachik Chakhoyan

YEREVAN. - Armenia’s javelin thrower Melik Janikyan who had qualified for the London Olympics is currently in Russia, actively preparing for the major event.

Melik’s qualifying for Olympics was probably surprise for the Armenian public but not for his father and coach Sirekan Janikyan.

“Our work is directed on achieving good results,” the coach told Armenian News-NEWS.am. “If Melik manages to improve the result up to 71.79 he will reach the finals to join world’s best eight javelin throwers. If he improves it by 3-4 meters we can compete for a medal. Olympic Games often have unexpected results and those who were not even included in the top list may bid for a medal.”

Prior to the Olympic Games, Melik will participate in the tournament in Croatia and then in European Championships in Helsinki.

“We hope that weather in London will be better than in Beijing where Melik could not use all his skills. We are afraid of London’s rainy weather. Unfavorable weather conditions are the main obstacles to javelin throwers,” the coach said.

He did not rule out the possibility that Janikyan can surprise his fans.

“We go to London not merely to participate but to show our best,” he emphasized.