Khilari Clinches Silver with Record Throw at Paralympics

World champion Sachin Sarjerao Khilari won silver in men's shot put F46 at the Paralympic Games with an Asian record of 16.32m. Despite his personal best throw, Khilari was outdone by Canada's Greg Stewart. India's para-athletes now hold 21 medals in this edition of the Games.

World champion Sachin Sarjerao Khilari secured a silver medal in the men's shot put F46 event at the Paralympic Games, achieving an Asian record distance of 16.32m. This milestone marks a significant achievement for India's track-and-field athletes, continuing their unprecedented medal-winning streak.

The 34-year-old athlete achieved his best throw in his second attempt, surpassing his previous Asian record of 16.30m set in May during the World Para-Athletics Championships in Japan. However, Khilari's effort was not sufficient to clinch the top spot, as Greg Stewart of Canada threw 16.38m to defend his Tokyo Paralympics gold. Luka Bakovic of Croatia claimed the bronze with a throw of 16.27m.

With Khilari's silver, India has now amassed 21 medals at the Paralympic Games, including three golds. Khilari expressed disappointment for not winning gold despite setting a personal best, acknowledging the fierce competition. Notably, the classification F46 is for athletes with arm impairments. Khilari, who hails from a farming family in Maharashtra, has overcome multiple challenges, including a severe arm injury and personal loss, to achieve this success.

(With inputs from agencies.)