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Praveen Kumar, a 21-year-old Indian athlete, etched his name in Paralympic history by securing a gold medal in the men's high jump T-64 category at the Paris Paralympics. This victory marked his second Paralympic medal, an upgrade from the silver he won at the Tokyo Paralympics in 2021. Kumar's journey to the podium is a testament to his determination and resilience, overcoming personal struggles and embracing a sport that transformed his life.
Born in Noida, India, Kumar faced feelings of inferiority due to a shorter leg. These insecurities initially led him to pursue volleyball. However, a pivotal moment arrived when he participated in a high jump event at an able-bodied athletics competition. This experience ignited a passion for the sport, leading him to embrace para high jump. Recognizing his potential, Dr. Satyapal Singh, a para-athletics coach, guided Kumar towards this path.
Kumar's dedication to high jump became evident as he immersed himself in the sport. He used the internet to learn about the Paralympics and the required qualifications. This newfound love for high jump proved transformative, leading him to transition from volleyball to a new athletic journey. As a teenager, Kumar showcased his talent by winning a silver medal at the 2019 World Para Athletics Junior Championship in Nottwil, Switzerland, followed by a gold medal at the 2021 World Para Athletics FAZZA Grand Prix in Dubai, where he set an Asian record.
At the tender age of 18, Kumar claimed a silver medal at the Tokyo Paralympics. This success further fueled his ambition, leading him to strive for greater heights. He continued his winning streak by securing a bronze medal at the 2023 World Para Athletics Championship. This performance solidified his reputation as a top athlete in his category and secured his qualification for the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Kumar's dedication and hard work have been supported by Olympic Gold Quest, a non-profit organization that provides aid to Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
Praveen Kumar's triumph in Paris not only secured a gold medal for India but also set a new record. This victory marked India's sixth gold medal at the Paris Paralympics. Kumar joined an elite group of Indian athletes who have achieved the remarkable feat of winning multiple medals at the Paralympics. India's performance in para-athletics at the Paris Paralympics has been outstanding, with the nation securing 14 medals, including 3 gold medals, contributing to over 50 percent of the country's overall medal tally.
Source: Paris Paralympics: Golden boy Praveen Kumar once fought feelings of inferiority