India made history at the 2024 Paralympics with a groundbreaking 1-2 finish in the men’s club throw F51 event, led by athletes Dharambir and Pranav Soorma. Dharambir, aged 35, claimed the gold medal with a remarkable throw of 34.92 meters, setting a new Asian record and securing India’s first-ever medal in this event. His compatriot, Pranav Soorma, followed closely with a throw of 34.59 meters, earning the silver medal and further solidifying a historic moment for Indian athletics.
Dharambir’s journey of resilience
Hailing from Sonipat, Haryana, Dharambir’s life took an unexpected turn when a diving accident left him paralyzed from the waist down. Despite this life-altering event, he found a new passion in para sports in 2014, focusing on club throw under the mentorship of fellow para-athlete Amit Kumar Saroha. Dharambir’s determination and perseverance paid off as he qualified for the 2016 Rio Paralympics. Over the years, he has consistently excelled on the international stage, culminating in his gold-medal-winning throw at the 2024 Paralympics, which set a new benchmark in his career. His 34.92-meter throw shattered the previous Asian record and marked a significant achievement in India’s Paralympic history.
Pranav Soorma’s inspiring journey
Pranav Soorma’s story is one of equal inspiration. At the age of 16, he suffered a severe spinal cord injury caused by a falling cement sheet, leaving him paralyzed. However, his time in the hospital became a turning point as he embraced para sports and found a new purpose in athletics. Pranav’s achievements in international competitions, including the Serbia Open and Tunisia Grand Prix, laid the foundation for his silver medal at the 2024 Paralympics, where his throw of 34.59 meters placed him right behind Dharambir. His resilience and dedication have made him a symbol of triumph over adversity.
A historic moment for India
The club throw F51 event, held at the iconic Stade de France on September 4, 2024, was a defining moment for Indian Paralympic history. Dharambir, who had previously won silver at the Tokyo Paralympics, elevated his performance, improving his personal best by nearly 10 meters to secure the top spot on the podium. His victory was not only a personal achievement but also a historic milestone for India, as it marked the nation’s first-ever gold in the club throw event at the Paralympics.
Pranav Soorma’s silver medal further underscored India’s growing prominence in para athletics. His journey from a life-altering injury to the Paralympic podium is a testament to his unyielding spirit and determination to excel in his sport.
Together, Dharambir and Pranav have not only created history but have also inspired a new generation of athletes, proving that resilience and dedication can lead to extraordinary achievements on the global stage.
