Paris Paralympics 2024: Sumit Antil Secures Second Consecutive Gold in Men’s Javelin Throw F64, Breaks Own Record Three Times

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Paris, Sep 2: Indian para-athlete Sumit Antil continues to cement his legacy as one of the greatest in para-athletics, winning his second consecutive gold medal in the Men's Javelin Throw F64 at the Paris 2024 Paralympics on Monday (September 2).

Meanwhile, compatriots Sandeep came close to a medal with a best throw of 62.80 metres, while Sandip Sargar finished 7th with a best throw of 58.03 metres.

Sumit Antil Creates History

Sumit's incredible throw of 70.59 meters not only earned him the gold but also saw him shatter his own previous Paralympic record of 68.55 meters three times during the event.

Sumit's performance was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment he stepped onto the field, it was clear that he was determined to defend his title. With each throw, Sumit pushed the boundaries, finally achieving a record-breaking throw of 70.59 meters, leaving his competitors trailing and securing his place as the Paralympic champion once again.

Reflecting on his victory in Paris, Sumit said, "Winning my second consecutive Paralympic gold is a dream come true. I came here to defend my title, and I'm thrilled to have done so while breaking my own record. This medal is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who supported me along the way."

A Journey of Resilience and Determination

Sumit Antil's journey to the Paralympic podium is one of resilience, perseverance, and an unyielding spirit. Originally from Sonipat, Haryana, Sumit's life took a dramatic turn when he lost his leg in a tragic accident on his way home from a coaching class.

Before the accident, Sumit was a promising wrestler with dreams of making it big in the sport. However, the amputation of his leg seemed to shatter those dreams.

Despite the devastating setback, Sumit refused to give up. His father's service in the Air Force ensured he received treatment at the Army Hospital, where he was fitted with a prosthetic leg.

Initially struggling to adjust to his new reality, Sumit found a renewed sense of purpose after meeting Rajkumar, a para-athlete from his village, who introduced him to Para Games.

This meeting marked a turning point in Sumit's life, setting him on a path that would eventually lead him to Paralympic glory.

Sumit's journey was far from easy. He endured severe pain and numerous hardships, but with unwavering support from his family and friends, he committed himself to daily improvement. His perseverance paid off, and Sumit quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in para-athletics.

Breaking Records and Making History

Since his breakthrough performance at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where he won his first gold medal with a world record throw, Sumit has consistently raised the bar in his discipline. He has broken his own world records four times, with the most recent being a throw of 73.29 meters at the Hangzhou Asian Para Games, the longest throw in para-athletics across all categories.

Sumit's achievements include:

• Gold Medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympics (World Record)
• Gold Medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics (World Record)
• Gold Medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games (World Record)
• Gold Medal at the 2023 World Para Athletics Championship (World Record)
• Gold Medal at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championship