India’s Sumit Antil has once again demonstrated his exceptional skill in javelin, successfully defending his Paralympic gold medal and setting a new Games record at the Paris Paralympics. Antil’s standout performance on Monday saw him achieve a top throw of 70.59m, which remained the highest throughout the competition.
Record-Breaking Performance
Antil showcased his prowess early in the final with an impressive throw of 69.11m on his first attempt. He then surpassed this mark with a record-setting throw, breaking the 70m barrier and setting a new Paralympic record in the F64 category. His subsequent throws of 66.66m, 69.04m, and 66.57m solidified his dominance, despite a foul on his fourth attempt. None of the other competitors were able to exceed the 70m mark, underscoring Antil’s superior performance.
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Medals and Rankings
Sri Lanka’s Dulan Kodithuwakku secured the silver medal with a best throw of 67.03m, while Michal Burian of the Czech Republic claimed bronze with a throw of 64.89m. Antil’s victory is particularly notable as he surpassed his previous Paralympic record of 68.55m, set during the Tokyo Games in 2021. His world record, however, remains an impressive 73.29m.
Historical Achievement
At just 26 years old, Antil has achieved a significant milestone by becoming only the second Indian athlete to successfully defend a Paralympic title, following shooter Avani Lekhara. This accomplishment highlights his exceptional skill and consistent performance on the global stage.
Champions of Change Recognition
In addition to his athletic achievements, Sumit Antil has been recognized as a Champions of Change Haryana 2021 Awardee. This accolade, presented by the Hon’ble Governor of Haryana, acknowledges his remarkable contributions and inspirational impact beyond his sports career.
Category and Competitions
The F64 category, in which Antil competes, is designated for athletes with lower limb impairments, including those who use prosthetics or have differences in leg length. Antil’s success in this category further highlights his dedication and the high level of competition in Paralympic athletics.
