Paris Paralympics 2024: Sumit Antil, Bhagyashree Jadhav Named As India’s Flagbearers In Opening Ceremony

New Delhi: With the Paris Paralympics 2024 on the horizon, India is poised to make a substantial impact with its largest-ever delegation of 84 athletes across 12 sports. Leading the Indian team during the opening ceremony will be two distinguished athletes: Sumit Antil, a gold medalist from the Tokyo Paralympics, and Bhagyashree Jadhav, who won silver at the Asian Para Games.

Sumit Antil, from Haryana, has made significant strides in javelin throw, culminating in a groundbreaking achievement at the Tokyo Paralympics. There, he secured a historic gold medal and set a world record with a throw of 68.55 meters in the F64 category. This remarkable feat not only earned him global recognition but also solidified his status as one of India’s leading para-athletes.

Following his triumph in Tokyo, Sumit Antil has persistently broken records and set new standards. Last year, he clinched another gold medal at the World Para Athletics Championships, demonstrating his continued excellence in the sport. Not content with resting on his achievements, he surpassed his own world record at the Asian Para Games with a remarkable throw of 73.29 meters. His ongoing success has made him a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the nation.

In contrast, Bhagyashree Jadhav’s ascent in para-athletics has been equally remarkable. Competing in the F34 shot put category, Bhagyashree has showcased exceptional skill and determination. Her silver medal at the Asian Para Games stands out as a significant milestone in her career.

The 2024 Paris Paralympics, running from August 28 to September 8, will feature 4,400 athletes from across the globe competing in diverse sports. This edition is particularly significant for India, as the nation seeks to exceed its previous medal count of 19, which includes five gold, eight silver, and six bronze medals.