Praveen Kumar’s Record-Breaking Gold at Paris Paralympics 2024
Indian para-athlete Praveen Kumar has made history by winning the gold medal in the men’s high jump T64 event at the Paris Paralympics 2024. With an astonishing leap of 2.08 meters, Praveen not only claimed the top spot but also set a new Asian record, a feat that surprised many in the sports world.
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Praveen shared that he hadn’t anticipated such an incredible outcome, but he was focused on delivering his personal best. His hard work, coupled with the guidance from his coach, paid off as he achieved this remarkable result.
“I just wanted to give my best. Hearing the national anthem and seeing the flag rise—words can’t express the joy I felt,” Praveen said after his win.
Defying Sports Science: A Jump Beyond Expectations
Praveen’s gold medal wasn’t just an ordinary achievement; it defied the very principles of sports science. According to experts, a jump of 2.08 meters typically requires an athlete to be at least 6 feet tall. Yet, Praveen stands at only 5 feet 6 inches.
Devendra Jhajaria, President of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), emphasized this achievement, stating that Praveen’s success was a testament to his passion, hard work, and discipline.
Praveen’s coach, Satyapal, expressed his pride, calling the victory the “ultimate guru dakshina.” The bond between the athlete and his coach, built on years of dedication and effort, played a key role in this achievement.
India’s Growing Medal Tally at Paris Paralympics 2024
Praveen’s gold was a major milestone for India, but it wasn’t the only win. Hokato Hotozhe Sema added another medal to India’s growing tally by securing bronze in the men’s shot put F57 event.
India’s total medal count at the Paris Paralympics has now reached 27 medals, including six gold, nine silver, and twelve bronze. This remarkable achievement has surpassed the record of five golds set during the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
India’s Chef de Mission, Satya Prakash Sangwan, expressed his joy, stating that hearing the national anthem brought him to tears. He is confident that India will continue to reach new heights in the Paralympic Games.
FAQs:
1. How did Praveen Kumar break the Asian record in high jump at the Paris Paralympics 2024?
Praveen Kumar set a new Asian record by jumping 2.08 meters in the men’s high jump T64 event. His jump defied the usual expectations of height requirements for such a performance, proving that his passion and hard work made all the difference.
2. What is Praveen Kumar’s height, and how did it challenge sports science?
Praveen Kumar is 5 feet 6 inches tall, but sports science suggests that a jump of 2.08 meters typically requires an athlete to be at least 6 feet tall. Praveen’s victory was a clear example of how determination can overcome physical limitations.
3. How many medals has India won at the Paris Paralympics 2024 so far?
India has won a total of 27 medals at the Paris Paralympics 2024, including 6 gold, 9 silver, and 12 bronze, setting a new record for the country in Paralympic history.
Conclusion:
Praveen Kumar’s gold-winning performance at the Paris Paralympics 2024 has etched his name in the history books. His dedication, along with the support of his coaches, helped him overcome the odds and break records. As India’s medal tally continues to rise, the Paris Paralympics have been a landmark event, inspiring millions across the nation. Keep an eye on India’s remarkable athletes as they aim for even greater heights in the remaining events.
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