India's Javelin Stars Shine at Paris Paralympics, Inspired by Neeraj Chopra's Historic Tokyo Triumph

Coach Rakesh Kumar Yadav highlights the impact of Neeraj Chopra's Tokyo 2020 gold on India's javelin throwers, as Ajeet Singh and Sundar Singh Gurjar secure medals at the Paris Paralympics. India's contingent wrapped up a historic campaign with 29 medals, their highest ever in the competition.

Rakesh Kumar Yadav, coach of Paralympic silver medallist Ajeet Singh, credited Neeraj Chopra's gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics for breaking mental barriers for India's javelin throwers, inspiring many to excel.

At the Paris Paralympics, Ajeet Singh and Sundar Singh Gurjar captured silver and bronze in the men's javelin throw F46 event. Ajeet achieved a personal best of 65.62m, while his compatriot Sundar recorded a season-best throw of 64.96m. Cuban Guillermo won gold with a throw of 66.14m.

Ajeet's performance, following his Tokyo 2020 Paralympics shortfall, was the result of peak preparations and foreign exposure. India's contingent finished Paris 2024 with a historic 29 medals, smashing the previous record set at Tokyo 2020. New sports such as paracycling and blind judo saw participation, with remarkable firsts and numerous records set by the Indian team.

(With inputs from agencies.)