Praveen Kumar Shatters Records in T64 High Jump

India's Praveen Kumar set a new Asian record in the men's high jump T64 event, securing a Paralympic gold medal. The 21-year-old from Noida achieved a best jump of 2.08m in Paris. Kumar's journey to becoming a para-athlete was filled with personal challenges, ultimately leading him to high jump success.

India's Praveen Kumar dazzled on Friday with a record-breaking performance in the men's high jump T64 event, clinching Paralympic gold to add to his Tokyo Games silver.

The 21-year-old Noida native, who was born with a short leg, smashed the Asian record with a best jump of 2.08m in a six-jumper field, securing the top podium spot.

Despite challenging starts, Kumar's odyssey toward becoming a para-athlete is a tale of resilience and triumph, having faced numerous trials and insecurities. He began with volleyball, eventually finding his passion in high jump after competing in an able-bodied competition. Now, he joins Sharad Kumar and Mariyappan Thagavelu in the elite club of high jumpers who have medaled in Paris.

(With inputs from agencies.)