Sumit Antil Sets Sights on Breaking World Record and Defending Paralympic Gold
New Delhi: As the Paris Paralympics approach, javelin thrower Sumit Antil is gearing up to defend his title and set a new world record. Scheduled from August 28 to September 8, 2024, the Paralympics will see India represented by a strong team of 84 athletes across 12 disciplines.
Antil, the reigning champion from the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, is determined to surpass his own records. He won gold in Tokyo with a throw of 68.55 meters and has since improved his mark to 70.83 meters at the 2023 Para World Championships and 73.29 meters at the Hangzhou Para Asian Games. His goal for the Paris Paralympics is to achieve a throw of 75 meters to secure gold, with an ultimate ambition to reach 80 meters.
Drawing inspiration from fellow athlete Neeraj Chopra, who recently won a silver medal at the Paris Olympics, Antil has intensified his preparations. Chopra’s impressive throw of 89.45 meters, achieved despite an injury, has motivated Antil. “Neeraj bhai’s performance was incredible and truly inspiring. His advice to stay cool and trust my preparation has been valuable,” Antil shared.
Despite a minor back injury, Antil remains optimistic and focused. The injury has impacted his training, but he is determined not to let it affect his performance in Paris. His preparation is supported by substantial funding from the Union Sports Ministry’s Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), which has provided INR 58.97 lakh.
At 26, Antil has become a celebrated athlete in his hometown of Sonepat, Haryana. After losing his left leg in an accident in 2015, his resilience and family support have driven him to achieve remarkable success. Reflecting on his journey, Antil notes, “I’ve become more consistent and disciplined since Tokyo. The expectations have grown, and I’m focused on delivering my best.”
Antil’s recent accomplishments include back-to-back gold medals at the World Para Athletics Championships in Paris (2023) and Kobe (2024). His ongoing pursuit of excellence is evident in his achievements, with the ultimate goal of reaching the 80-meter mark in the F-64 category. All eyes will be on him as he aims to make history once again on the global stage.
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