Indian Para-Athletes Shine at Paralympics: Dharambir Sets New Record

Dharambir set a new Asian record to clinch gold, while Pranav Soorma won silver at the men's F51 club throw event in the Paralympics. Dharambir's journey began after a paralyzing accident, while Soorma turned to para-sports after a spinal injury. They both persevered against the odds to become top athletes.

Dharambir shattered the Asian record to secure gold, while Pranav Soorma clinched silver in the men's F51 event at the Paralympics. Indian club throwers dominated the competition.

Despite four fouled attempts, Dharambir, a 35-year-old world championship bronze medallist from Sonepat, hurled the club 34.92m on his fifth try to claim the top podium spot. Soorma, recovering from a severe spinal injury at 16, threw 34.59m in his first attempt but couldn't surpass Dharambir.

Amit Kumar Saroha, Dharambir's mentor, finished last with 23.96m. Serbia's Filip Graovac took bronze with a 34.18m throw. The F51 event caters to athletes with significant trunk, leg, and hand impairments. Both Dharambir and Soorma exemplify triumph over adversity, achieving remarkable success in their careers despite severe disabilities.

Dharambir faced paralysis after a diving accident but found direction through para-sports, qualifying for the 2016 Rio Paralympics and earning multiple medals, including silver at the 2022 Asian Para Games. Soorma, overcoming a spinal injury, excelled in academics before rediscovering sports. He won silver at the 2019 Beijing Grand Prix and gold at the 2023 Serbia Open, setting a new record at the Asian Para Games 2023.

(With inputs from agencies.)