Indian para-athletes are making history at the Paris Paralympics, and Dharambir Singh is one of the stars. On September 4, 2024, Dharambir won a gold medal for India in the men’s club throw F51 event. Not only did he win gold, but he also broke the Asian record with an incredible throw of 34.92 meters. Despite a tough start where his first four throws were fouls, Dharambir made a remarkable comeback with his fifth throw, securing India’s fifth gold in the Paralympics.
Life-Changing Accident
Dharambir, a 35-year-old from Sonipat, Haryana, had never been involved in sports earlier in life. He was living a regular life until a tragic accident changed everything. While swimming, he misjudged the depth of the water and hit a large rock. The accident caused paralysis below his waist, leaving him unable to walk. This life-altering event could have broken his spirit, but Dharambir didn’t give up.
Starting Sports at 25
At the age of 25, Dharambir’s life took a positive turn when he learned about para sports in 2014. Encouraged by fellow athlete Amit Kumar Saroha, who had faced a similar fate, Dharambir began training in club throw. His hard work and determination soon started showing results. In just two years, he qualified for the 2016 Rio Paralympics with an A mark, finishing 9th. Four years later, he qualified again for the Tokyo Paralympics, where he improved his performance to 8th place.
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Consistent Performances and Major Wins
Despite missing out on medals at two Paralympics, Dharambir never lost his fighting spirit. Over the past two years, he has been in outstanding form. He won a silver medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games in China, proving his consistency on the international stage. Now, his perseverance has paid off with a gold medal in Paris.
Dharambir’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. The Haryana government honored him with the prestigious Bhim Award, the highest recognition given to athletes from the state.
Dharambir Singh’s story is one of sheer willpower and determination, inspiring millions across the world. His journey from paralysis to breaking records in para sports shows that no obstacle is too big to overcome with hard work and dedication.
