Sumit Antil Defends Title in Record-Breaking F64 Javelin Throw at Paris Paralympics

Indian Paralympian Sumit Antil defended his F64 javelin throw title, setting a new record at the Paris Paralympics. India's contingent returned with a historic 29-medal haul, including achievements from para-shooter Avani Lekhara and archery champion Harvinder Singh. Sumit lauded emerging talent and Neeraj Chopra's influence on the sport.

Indian Paralympic gold medallist Sumit Antil expressed his joy on Tuesday after successfully defending his title. The Tokyo Paralympics champion excelled in the final, breaking the Paralympic record twice to secure the top podium position in the F64 javelin throw event held in Paris.

Antil initiated the competition with a 69.11m throw, surpassing his own Tokyo record of 68.55m. He then exceeded this in his second attempt, achieving a record-breaking 70.59m throw. Earlier, the Indian Paralympics team returned to India after their historic performance at the Paris event.

Sumit highlighted his rigorous preparation and felt it was worth all the hard work. He praised the emergence of young javelin throwers in India and hoped for future podium finishes. He also noted the increased recognition of javelin throwers post Neeraj Chopra's Olympic wins.

The Indian contingent concluded the Paralympics campaign in Paris with an unprecedented 29-medal haul, including seven golds. This surpassed their previous record of 19 medals from Tokyo 2020. Among the record-setters was para-shooter Avani Lekhara, who defended her 10m air rifle title with a world record score.

In a historic one-two finish in para-athletics, Dharambir and Parnav Soorma won gold and silver in the men's club throw F51 event, with Dharambir setting an Asian record. Praveen Kumar's Asian record in the T64 high jump secured another gold for India, while Harvinder Singh became India's first archery champion in the Paralympics.

(With inputs from agencies.)