India continued its stellar performance at the Paris Paralympics 2024 on Day 7, with para-archer Harvinder Singh and para-athlete Dharambir Singh shining bright as they clinched gold medals, adding to the nation’s growing medal tally. The day was marked by inspiring displays of determination, skill, and sportsmanship, as Indian athletes brought their best to the global stage, making the nation proud.
Here’s a breakdown of the top moments from Day 7, featuring Harvinder Singh’s triumphant archery win and Dharambir Singh’s spectacular show in athletics.
Harvinder Singh’s Golden Triumph in Archery
Harvinder Singh, India’s leading para-archer, once again demonstrated his world-class abilities by winning gold in the men’s individual recurve event. Competing under intense pressure, Harvinder showcased a blend of composure and technical mastery that saw him defeat his opponents in a thrilling series of rounds.
Singh’s journey to gold was filled with dramatic moments. In the semifinals, he narrowly edged out Italy’s Vincenzo Catalano, winning 6-5 in a match that went down to the final arrow. Harvinder’s calm demeanor, even in the face of such tight competition, spoke volumes about his mental strength, a quality that has been the cornerstone of his career.
In the final, Harvinder faced Great Britain’s David Phillips, an experienced archer known for his precision. However, Harvinder’s performance on the day was impeccable, as he secured the win 7-3, sealing his place at the top of the podium. This gold adds to his bronze from the Tokyo Paralympics 2020, underscoring his status as one of the world’s best para-archers.
“I feel immense pride wearing the tricolor on the podium. This gold is not just for me, but for every person who believed in me, and for India,” Harvinder said after the victory, dedicating his medal to the country.
Dharambir Singh’s Dominant Performance in Athletics
Another Indian athlete who made Day 7 unforgettable was Dharambir Singh, who clinched gold in the men’s 400m T47 event. Known for his speed and resilience, Dharambir dominated the field, finishing with a blistering time of 49.58 seconds, a personal best and Paralympic record in his category.
Dharambir’s run was nothing short of spectacular. Right from the starting gun, he surged ahead of his competitors, maintaining an impressive lead throughout the race. His commanding performance left no doubt about his gold-medal potential as he crossed the finish line well ahead of his closest rival, Brazil’s Ricardo Gomes, who took silver.
The win marks a major milestone in Dharambir’s career, as he became the first Indian para-athlete to win a Paralympic gold in the 400m event. His victory adds to India’s medal tally, which continues to grow as the Paralympics progresses.
“This gold medal is the result of years of hard work, dedication, and the support I’ve received from my coaches, family, and the Indian Paralympic community. I hope this inspires young athletes in India to dream big, regardless of the challenges they face,” Dharambir said after his win, beaming with pride as he held the Indian flag high.
India’s Rising Paralympic Momentum
India’s performances at the Paris Paralympics 2024 have been historic, as the nation’s para-athletes continue to break barriers and set new records. Day 7 was no exception, with Harvinder Singh and Dharambir Singh’s gold medals adding to an already impressive medal tally.
Beyond the golds, other Indian athletes also made notable contributions. In the women’s javelin F46 event, Ekta Bhyan narrowly missed a medal, finishing fourth but showing immense potential for future competitions. Meanwhile, the Indian wheelchair basketball team put up a valiant fight, although they were edged out by the USA in a close match.
The growing success of Indian para-athletes is the result of sustained efforts from athletes, coaches, and the government, with a focus on providing better infrastructure and support for athletes with disabilities. These athletes have not only achieved personal milestones but have also raised the profile of para-sports in India.
Looking Ahead: India’s Medal Prospects
With several days of competition still ahead, India’s medal prospects remain bright. Eyes are on Indian favorites like para-badminton star Pramod Bhagat and para-shooter Avani Lekhara, both of whom are poised for strong performances.
As the Paris Paralympics progresses, Indian athletes continue to showcase their tenacity and spirit, making every Indian proud with their outstanding achievements. The performances of Harvinder Singh and Dharambir Singh on Day 7 have cemented their place in Paralympic history, and their victories serve as a beacon of inspiration for the nation.
India’s para-athletes are proving that no challenge is too great when met with courage, hard work, and an unbreakable will to succeed.