Paris: The Indian contingent continues to dazzle at the Paris Paralympics 2024, with a remarkable string of double podium finishes. On the seventh day of the games, India’s para-athletes added to the medal tally with gold and silver in the men’s club throw F51 event.
Golden Throw by Dharambir
Para-athletes Dharambir and Pranav Soorma showcased their prowess in the men’s club throw F51 final. Dharambir clinched the gold medal with a record-breaking throw of 34.92m, setting a new Asian benchmark. His compatriot, Pranav Soorma, followed closely with a silver-winning throw of 34.59m. This achievement mirrored their performance at the Para Asian Games last year, albeit with reversed positions.
India’s Medal Tally Soars
With this latest success, India’s total medal count at the Paris Paralympics has reached 24, comprising five gold, nine silver, and ten bronze medals. The Indian team is now just one medal away from the target of 25 medals set by Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) President Devendra Jhajharia.
Record-Breaking Performances
Dharambir’s throw not only secured gold but also equaled India’s gold medal tally from the Tokyo Paralympics three years ago. His throw of 34.92m broke the Asian record, while Pranav’s silver-winning throw of 34.59m was equally impressive. Amit Kumar Saroha, the third Indian in the event, finished with a best effort of 23.96m.
Threat from Serbia
Serbia’s Zeljko Dimitrijevic, a formidable competitor with two gold and a silver from previous Paralympics, secured the bronze medal with a throw of 34.18m. Despite the strong competition, the Indian duo’s performance remained unmatched.
More Podium Finishes
India’s success wasn’t limited to the club throw. On Tuesday, Ajeet Singh and Sundar Singh Gurjar won silver and bronze in the men’s javelin throw F46 event. Shortly after, Mariyappan Thangavelu and Sharad Kumar secured bronze and silver in the men’s high jump T6 final.
Historic Gold in Archery
Before Dharambir’s stellar performance, para-archer Harvinder Singh made history by winning India’s first gold medal in para-archery at the Paralympics, defeating Poland’s Lukas Ciszek.
Other Gold Medalists
- Avani Lekhara: Won gold in the women’s 10m air rifle final.
- Nitesh Kumar: Secured gold in the men’s singles SL3 category by defeating Great Britain’s Daniel Bethell.
- Sumit Antil: Achieved a record-breaking throw of 70.59m in the javelin throw F64 category, winning India’s third gold medal at the Paris Paralympics.
India’s para-athletes continue to inspire with their exceptional performances, bringing pride and glory to the nation at the Paris Paralympics 2024.
