Dharambir Sets Asian Record to Win Gold in Paralympic Club Throw

Indian athletes Dharambir and Pranav Soorma dominated the men's F51 club throw event at the Paralympics, securing gold and silver medals respectively. Dharambir set a new Asian record with a throw of 34.92m on his fifth attempt, while Soorma's best throw of 34.59m came in his first attempt.

From Paralysis to Paralympic Glory

Dharambir's journey to Paralympic success began after a diving accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. Fellow para-athlete Amit Kumar Saroha introduced him to para-sports, which gave him a new purpose. Within two years, Dharambir qualified for the 2016 Rio Paralympics and has since won multiple medals, including a silver at the 2022 Asian Para Games.

Pranav Soorma also faced life-changing circumstances when a cement sheet fell on his head at age 16, causing severe spinal cord injury and paralysis. Despite this, he excelled academically, scoring 91.2% in his 12th board exams and later earning a postgraduate degree from the Delhi School of Economics. He now works as an Assistant Manager at the Bank of Baroda.

Success in Para-Athletics

Soorma rediscovered his passion for sports through para-athletics, achieving significant success. He won a silver medal at the 2019 Beijing Grand Prix, a gold medal at the Serbia Open 2023, and both gold and silver medals at the Tunisia Grand Prix 2022. His record-setting throw at the Asian Para Games 2023 earned him another gold in the men's club throw F51 event.

The F51 club throw event is designed for athletes with significant movement impairments in their trunk, legs, and hands. Competitors participate while seated and rely on their shoulders and arms to generate power.

The third Indian competitor, Amit Kumar Saroha, who is also Dharambir's mentor and a trailblazing para-athlete, finished last with a best effort of 23.96m. Serbia's Filip Graovac secured the bronze medal with a throw of 34.18m in his second attempt.

Dharambir's achievement is particularly notable given that he fouled four attempts before his record-breaking throw. His perseverance paid off as he claimed the top spot on the podium.

Soorma's initial throw set a high standard early in the competition but was ultimately surpassed by Dharambir's impressive performance. The event highlighted India's strength in para-athletics as they completed a one-two finish.

Both athletes' stories are inspiring examples of overcoming adversity through determination and support from their families and communities. Their achievements not only bring pride to India but also serve as motivation for others facing similar challenges.

The Indian contingent's success in this event underscores their growing prowess in para-sports on the international stage. With continued support and development, these athletes are poised to achieve even greater heights in future competitions.