Paris Paralympics 2024: Sharad Kumar And Mariyappan Thangavelu Make It A High Jump Double Podium For India

India continued its stellar performance at the 2024 Paris Paralympics with yet another historic moment on the track and field stage. On a day filled with excitement and emotion, Sharad Kumar won the silver medal and Mariyappan Thangavelu claimed the bronze in the men’s high jump T63 event, securing a double podium finish for India. Their victories, combined with earlier successes, pushed India’s medal tally to a record-breaking 20 medals, surpassing the country’s previous best at a single Paralympic Games.

The men’s high jump T63 final was nothing short of a high-octane drama, where surprises unfolded early on, and India’s para-athletes showcased incredible resilience and skill to make their mark on the global stage. The competition saw not only the best of Indian para-athletics but also one of the finest young talents from the United States, who made history with a record-breaking performance.

Drama and Surprises in the High Jump Final

The men’s high jump T63 final began with an unexpected twist that would change the course of the competition. Defending Paralympic champion and record holder, Sam Grewe of the United States, shockingly failed to clear the opening height of 1.72 meters. This early exit from one of the favorites left the field wide open, creating opportunities for other competitors to step up and claim the podium spots. Grewe’s departure from the contest was a dramatic turn of events, and it set the stage for a thrilling battle between the remaining athletes.

With the door open, the competition quickly heated up, as five athletes cleared the height of 1.85 meters. The battle for the medals intensified, and two athletes managed to go even further, raising the stakes and pushing each other to new heights. It was a competition that showcased the high level of talent and determination in the field, with each athlete giving their all in pursuit of Paralympic glory.

Sharad Kumar’s Silver Redemption

For Sharad Kumar, the Paris Paralympics represented a chance for redemption after his bronze medal finish in Tokyo. The 32-year-old para-athlete delivered a remarkable performance in the final, showing incredible consistency and skill as he navigated through the various heights. Sharad cleared 1.85 meters and then 1.88 meters, tying for a new Paralympic record at the time. However, his first attempt at 1.91 meters ended in failure, and when his rival Ezra Frech of the USA successfully cleared that height, Sharad knew he had to push even further.

In a bold move, Sharad decided to skip further attempts at 1.91 meters and instead aimed for 1.94 meters. Unfortunately, his efforts fell short, and he had to concede defeat. Despite this, Sharad’s silver medal was a significant achievement, marking an upgrade from his previous Paralympic outing in Tokyo. The smile on his face and his wave to the crowd signaled his acceptance of the outcome, as he recognized the brilliance of Frech’s performance.

Sharad’s journey to this silver medal has been nothing short of inspiring. After suffering paralysis in his left leg at the age of two due to spurious polio medication, Sharad has fought through immense challenges to reach the pinnacle of para-athletics. His career has seen highs and lows, including a doping ban just before the 2012 London Paralympics, but he has always bounced back stronger. With gold medals at the Asian Para Games and now two Paralympic medals to his name, Sharad’s story is one of resilience, determination, and triumph against the odds.

Mariyappan Thangavelu Completes His Paralympic Medal Collection

Mariyappan Thangavelu, one of India’s most celebrated para-athletes, added another chapter to his illustrious career with a bronze medal in Paris. With this medal, Mariyappan has now completed a full set of Paralympic medals, having previously won gold in Rio and silver in Tokyo. His bronze in Paris is yet another testament to his consistency and excellence in the sport.

The high jump final saw Mariyappan clear all his previous attempts on the first try, giving him a clear countback advantage and securing his place on the podium. His ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure has been a hallmark of his career. Mariyappan’s journey to Paralympic success began after a life-changing accident at the age of five, when a drunk bus driver ran over his right leg while he was walking to school. Despite this setback, Mariyappan embraced para-sports and never looked back, becoming a symbol of hope and inspiration for millions.

At 29 years old, Mariyappan’s trophy cabinet is one of the most impressive in Indian sports, with three Paralympic medals, a World Championship gold and bronze, and an Asian Para Games silver. His legacy as one of India’s greatest para-athletes is firmly established, and his performance in Paris further cements his place in the annals of Indian sporting history.

Ezra Frech’s Record-Breaking Performance

While the Indian athletes shone brightly in the final, it was the 19-year-old American, Ezra Frech, who stole the show with a stunning, record-breaking performance. Frech cleared 1.85 meters and then 1.88 meters to tie the Paralympic record set by Sharad Kumar, but he didn’t stop there. With remarkable precision and skill, Frech cleared 1.91 meters, breaking the Paralympic record, and then went on to set new records at 1.94 meters and 1.96 meters.

Frech’s dominance in the competition was evident, as he continued to push the boundaries of what was possible. His final attempt at breaking his own world record of 1.98 meters fell short, but his performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Frech’s victory in Paris was a defining moment in his young career, and it showcased the bright future of para-athletics on the global stage.

India’s Record Medal Haul in Paris

With Sharad Kumar and Mariyappan Thangavelu’s podium finishes in the men’s high jump T63 final, India’s medal tally at the Paris Paralympics reached a historic 20 medals. This surpasses the country’s previous best of 19 medals at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and highlights India’s growing prowess in para-sports. The Indian contingent has delivered outstanding performances across multiple events, from athletics to shooting and beyond, and their success in Paris is a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and support that has gone into preparing for these Games.

India’s para-athletes have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with on the world stage, and their achievements in Paris will inspire future generations to pursue excellence in para-sports. The record-breaking medal haul is a source of pride for the entire nation, and it underscores the importance of continued investment in para-sports to nurture the next generation of champions.

The Road Ahead for Indian Para-Athletes

As the Paris Paralympics continue, India’s athletes will be looking to add even more medals to their tally. With several events still to come, there is every possibility that the Indian contingent will further solidify their place among the world’s best para-athletes. The success in Paris is not just about the medals won; it is a celebration of the journey, the struggles, and the triumphs of India’s Paralympians.

For Sharad Kumar and Mariyappan Thangavelu, the road ahead is filled with new challenges and opportunities. Both athletes have already achieved greatness, but their hunger for success remains undiminished. As they continue to inspire the nation with their performances, they also serve as role models for future generations of para-athletes who will carry the torch forward.

A Night of Inspiration and Triumph

The men’s high jump T63 final at the 2024 Paris Paralympics will be remembered as a night of inspiration and triumph for Indian para-athletics. Sharad Kumar’s silver and Mariyappan Thangavelu’s bronze added to India’s growing medal tally and highlighted the strength and resilience of the country’s para-athletes. Their performances in Paris are a testament to their determination and skill, and they will be celebrated as heroes back home.

As India continues its journey at the Paris Paralympics, the achievements of these para-athletes will serve as a source of inspiration for millions. Their success on the global stage is a reminder that with hard work, perseverance, and belief, anything is possible. The Paris Paralympics have already been a historic chapter in India’s sporting history, and there is no doubt that the best is yet to come.

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