Sumit Antil has successfully defended his Paralympic gold medal by setting a new Games record in the men’s javelin throw at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Antil, who previously held the Paralympic record, surpassed his own mark with a remarkable throw of 70.59 meters in his second attempt during the F64 final.
The competition was intense, with Antil beginning his performance with a solid 69.11m throw. He then broke his previous Paralympic record with his second throw, and continued with throws of 66.66m, 69.04m, and 66.57m in subsequent attempts. Despite a foul on his fourth attempt, no other competitor could match his best throw.
Antil’s victory makes him the first Indian man and the second overall from India to defend a Paralympic title. Avani Lekhara is the first to achieve this feat, winning gold in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event at Paris 2024, following her Tokyo 2020 success. Antil joins an elite group of Indian athletes with multiple Paralympic gold medals, alongside Devendra Jhajharia, who won javelin gold in Athens 2004 and Rio 2016.
The 26-year-old javelin thrower from Sonipat, Haryana, is also the world record holder in his event with a throw of 73.29m. Antil has added to his impressive list of achievements with gold medals at the World Para Athletics Championships in 2023 and 2024, as well as at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou in 2023.
Antil faced challenges leading up to the Games, dealing with a back injury sustained in 2023. Despite ongoing pain, he managed to deliver a stellar performance by taking painkillers before his throws. He plans to address his injury after returning to India to ensure proper recovery.
Sri Lanka’s Dulan Kodithuwakku secured the silver medal with a top throw of 67.03m, while Michal Burian from another country took the bronze with a best throw of 64.89m. Antil’s achievement highlights his exceptional skill and determination in the sport.
Overall, Sumit Antil’s success at the Paris 2024 Paralympics underscores his status as a leading figure in the field of javelin throw, reinforcing India’s strength in Paralympic athletics.