Dharambir Sets Asian Record with Gold Medal in Men’s F51 Club Throw at Paris Paralympics

Dharambir from Sonepat achieved an extraordinary feat at the Paris Paralympics on Wednesday by setting an Asian record with a throw of 34.92 meters in the men’s F51 club throw event. His impressive performance secured him the gold medal.

The 35-year-old athlete, who previously earned a bronze medal at the world championships, foul-threw his first four attempts before finally making his mark on the fifth attempt, according to reports from PTI.

Pranav Soorma, a 29-year-old from Faridabad, also put in a remarkable performance, clinching the silver medal with his best throw of 34.59 meters during his first attempt. Soorma, who sustained a spinal cord injury at the age of 16, showcased exceptional skill throughout the event.

Both Dharambir and Soorma displayed their dominance in the men’s F51 club throw, marking a historic one-two finish for India. This is the first time the nation has accomplished such a feat in any event at the Paralympics.

The bronze medal in this event was awarded to Serbia‘s Filip Graovac, who finished with a throw of 34.18 meters in his second attempt. The F51 club throw caters to athletes with significant movement limitations, allowing them to compete while seated and relying on upper body strength.

In total, India’s Para-athletes have secured 24 medals during the ongoing Paralympic Games, elevating the nation to the 13th position in the overall standings. This record medal count includes five gold, nine silver, and ten bronze medals, signifying India’s best performance in the history of the event.

With three more days of competition remaining, the Indian contingent remains optimistic about further enhancing their medal tally, reflecting the athletes’ hard work and dedication.