Sachin Khilari Wins Gold, Sets Record At World Para Athletics

Kobe (Japan), May 22: India's para athlete Sachin Sarjerao Khilari made headlines on Wednesday (May 22) by successfully defending his gold medal here in the men's shot put F46 category at the World Para Athletics Championship.

He not only defended his title but also set an Asian record, propelling India to surpass its best-ever medal haul in this prestigious global competition. With a remarkable throw of 16.30 meters, Sachin outdid his previous Asian record, securing his spot for the upcoming Paris Paralympics.

This brought India's medal tally to an impressive 12, comprising five gold, four silver, and three bronze medals. This haul ensured India maintained its third position in the medal standings, trailing behind giants China and Brazil. Sachin's performance was a significant contribution to this success, bettering India's previous best of 10 medals achieved in the 2023 Paris edition.

Meanwhile, Dharambir also contributed to India's success by clinching a bronze in the men's club throw F51 category with a throw of 33.61 meters. This event saw competitors with severe trunk and limb impairments demonstrate their strength and skill. The gold and silver in this category went to Serbia's Zelijko Dimitrijevic and Mexico's Mario Santana Hernandez, respectively.

Sachin, originally from Karagani village in Maharashtra, has faced personal challenges leading to his disability. He suffered a mishap during his school days leading to disability in his left arm. The stocky 34-year-old lost his muscles from the elbow due to gangrene and despite multiple surgeries, his arm never recovered. Despite these, his determination and skill have seen him rise to the top of his sport. His record-breaking throw not only brought him gold but also a ticket to the Paris Paralympics, a dream for many athletes.

Zelijko Dimitrijevic of Serbia smashed the meet record with a throw of 34.20m to win the gold, while Mario Santana Hernandez of Mexico bagged the silver with a season's best effort of 33.62m.

The men's club throw F51 category is for para athletes with severe trunk and limb impairments. Competitors throw a club from a seated position, relying solely on their arm and shoulder strength. F51 classification is reserved for athletes with the most significant impairments in this category.

"I was expecting the gold here and I am happy. I have also qualified for Paris Olympics and hope to win gold there also," Sachin said from Kobe. With three more days still to go, India are in with a chance of winning a few more medals including gold and head coach Satyanarayan said he was quite optimistic. "We are expecting two more gold medals and hoping to touch the 17-medal mark," said Satyanarayan.

India's performance at the championship has been nothing short of inspiring. Prior to Wednesday's achievements, India had already secured 10 medals, including four golds. Reigning Paralympics champion Sumit Antil defended his F64 javelin throw world title, while Thangavelu Mariyappan and Ekta Bhyan also won gold in their respective events, contributing to India's impressive medal tally.

With three more days left in the championship, India's head coach, Satyanarayan, remains optimistic about the team's prospects. He anticipates winning additional medals, including two more golds, aiming for a 17-medal mark. This optimism highlights the team's confidence and the depth of talent within the Indian contingent at the World Para Athletics Championship.

India's athletes continue to shine on the global stage, setting new records and bringing glory to their nation. Their achievements in Kobe are a testament to their hard work, skill, and determination. As the championship progresses, all eyes will be on the Indian team, eagerly anticipating more successes.