India Breaks Records with 20 Medals at Paris Paralympics 2024

New Delhi: India has achieved a remarkable milestone at the Paris Paralympics 2024, surpassing its previous best with a record-breaking 20 medals. This historic feat not only exceeds the 19 medals won at the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021 but also showcases the growing strength and determination of Indian para-athletes on the global stage. With a mix of gold, silver, and bronze, India’s performance has been nothing short of stellar, with significant contributions from multiple athletes in various events.

Historic Medal Tally

As of September 3, 2024, India has secured a total of 20 medals: three gold, seven silver, and ten bronze. This impressive tally marks a new high for the nation at the Paralympic Games, outdoing the 19 medals won in Tokyo three years ago. The Indian contingent demonstrated exceptional prowess across a variety of sports, with 13 medals coming in the last two days alone, highlighting the country’s strong finish at these Games.

At the Tokyo Paralympics, India ranked among the top-performing nations, with a medal haul of 19 that included five gold, eight silver, and six bronze medals. The achievement in Paris not only builds on this legacy but also sets a new benchmark for future Indian para-athletes.

Men’s High Jump T63: A Thrilling Duel

In the men’s high jump T63 category, India witnessed a thrilling competition as two of its leading athletes, Sharad Kumar and Mariyappan Thangavelu, took to the field. Both athletes are familiar names, having medaled at the Tokyo Paralympics as well. Sharad Kumar secured the silver medal with an impressive jump of 1.88 meters, while Mariyappan Thangavelu claimed bronze with a best effort of 1.85 meters.

This event was fiercely contested, with American world record holder Ezra Frech taking the gold. Kumar’s performance was particularly notable as his 1.88-meter jump set a new Paralympic record in the T42 category, surpassing the previous record held by Thangavelu. The T63 classification is for athletes with single through-knee or above-knee limb deficiencies, and both Kumar and Thangavelu competed with prostheses, showcasing their incredible athleticism and determination.

Javelin Throw F46: A Battle of Giants

In the javelin throw F46 final, India’s Ajeet Singh and Sundar Singh Gurjar delivered standout performances. Ajeet Singh clinched the silver medal with a throw of 65.62 meters, narrowly surpassing his compatriot Sundar Singh Gurjar, who secured bronze with a throw of 64.96 meters. Gurjar, the reigning world record holder, had previously won a bronze medal at the Tokyo Paralympics, making this his second consecutive Paralympic medal.

The event was won by Guillermo Gonzalez Varona of Cuba, who claimed the gold with a throw of 66.16 meters. Despite facing stiff competition, Ajeet and Gurjar showcased the depth of talent in Indian javelin throwing, with both athletes pushing each other to new heights.

Deepthi Jeevanji: A Rising Star in Women’s 400m T20

India’s medal rush continued with the bronze medal performance of 20-year-old Deepthi Jeevanji in the women’s 400m T20 category. Despite not reaching her personal best, Deepthi clocked 55.82 seconds to secure third place, finishing behind Ukraine’s Yuliia Shuliar and Turkey’s Aysel Onder. Deepthi had been one of India’s strongest contenders for gold, having set a world record of 55.07 seconds earlier this year at the World Para-Athletics Championships in Japan.

Deepthi’s performance at the Paris Paralympics, although slightly short of her previous record, was nonetheless commendable. Her achievement adds to India’s growing reputation in track events and highlights her potential for future success.

Looking Ahead: More Medals in Sight

With several events still to come, India is optimistic about adding more medals to its tally before the Games conclude on September 8th. The success of Indian para-athletes in Paris has been a source of immense pride and inspiration, not just for the nation but also for aspiring athletes back home. This record-breaking performance at the Paris Paralympics 2024 is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of India’s para-athletes, who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible.

As the Games draw to a close, India’s para-athletes have already made history, and the nation eagerly awaits to see how many more milestones they can achieve before the final curtain falls on this extraordinary edition of the Paralympics.

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