Dharambir and Pranav Soorma Secure Historic One-Two Finish for India in Men’s F51 Club Throw at Paris 2024

Dharambir and Pranav Soorma achieved a remarkable feat on Wednesday at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, securing gold and silver medals, respectively, in the men’s club throw F51 class. This accomplishment marks India’s first one-two finish in this event at the Paralympics.

The success of Dharambir and Soorma also contributes to India’s best-ever performance at the Paralympic Games, surpassing the previous record set during the Tokyo 2020 Games. As of now, India has garnered a total of 24 medals at Paris 2024, including five golds, nine silvers, and ten bronzes, compared to the 19 medals earned at the last Games.

Dharambir, aged 35, set an Asian record with a throw of 34.92 meters on his fifth attempt at the Stade de France. His compatriot, Pranav Soorma, aged 29, commenced strongly with a throw of 34.59 meters to clinch the silver medal.

<p" "I don't have words to explain the joy and emotions that are going through me right now," stated Dharambir following his performance. He added that the two medals brought India closer to the promised goal of 25 medals.

Club throw, similar to the hammer throw in the Olympics, is a Paralympic event that is not included in the Olympic program. Athletes in the F51 sports class contend with significant impairments in muscle power and movement range, competing from a seated position.

Dharambir’s previous performances included an eighth-place finish at Tokyo 2020 and a bronze medal at the Para World Championships earlier this year. His journey to the gold medal was not without challenges, as he faced four fouls before achieving a successful throw.

Pranav Soorma’s journey to the Paralympics took a dramatic turn at the age of 16 when he was tragically injured by a falling cement sheet, resulting in paralysis. Despite the difficulties, he has emerged as an accomplished athlete and now holds a silver medal from the Paris 2024 Games.

The bronze medal in the event was awarded to Serbia‘s Zeljko Dimitrijevic, who achieved a throw of 34.18 meters. The Indian athletes collectively displayed exceptional skill, leading India to a commendable 13th position in the overall medal standings at the Games, with the potential for further achievements as the competition continues.