The 400mm f/2.8 is one of Nikon's best lenses and is a huge favourite of sports photographers. This is the older non-VR version, but the lack of VR isn't a major issue because it's so heavy, you'd probably be using it with a monopod or tripod anyway. (And even if you insist on using it hand-held, the weight tends to dampen camera shake. It's much less 'twitchy' than a lighter lens!) Optically, of course, it is just about perfect in every respect.

This lens works very well with Nikon Teleconverters and it will still deliver superb image quality. The 1.4x Teleconverter makes it a 560mm f/4 lens; the 1.7x Teleconverter makes it a 680mm f/5-ish lens; and the 2x Teleconverter makes it a 800mm f/5.6 lens. All of these combinations will retain autofocus and VR on all compatible cameras.

Suggested extra: You might find the Manfrotto MN393 long lens bracket useful when mounting this lens on a monopod or tripod.