Iran Advances to Sitting Volleyball Final at Paralympics; Oksana Masters Secures Ninth Gold Medal

Sports John Brightwater September 7, 2024

Iran Advances to Sitting Volleyball Final at Paralympics; Oksana Masters Secures Ninth Gold Medal

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, the Iranian men’s sitting volleyball team has secured a place in the gold medal match at the Paris Paralympics, defeating Egypt in a semifinal match characterized by resilience and athletic prowess. After facing a challenge in the third set, the team bounced back emphatically in the fourth, winning that set decisively with a score of 25-8. The team, known for its dominance and decorated history, aims to secure its third consecutive gold medal when they compete against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Friday.

The Iranian squad features Morteza Mehrzadselakjani, an athlete who measures over eight feet tall, providing an undeniable height advantage on the court. His performance has been pivotal in leading the team to this crucial victory. Head coach Hadi Rezaeigarkani remarked on the significance of Mehrzadselakjani’s contributions to the team’s success, emphasizing that bringing such talent to the championship has been one of the most important achievements of his coaching career.

This Paralympics marks Mehrzadselakjani’s third participation, during which he has already secured two previous gold medals from the competitions held in Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo. He faces personal challenges with acromegaly, which results in excessive growth, and also utilizes a wheelchair due to a past bicycle accident that affected his mobility, leaving one leg shorter than the other.

In a separate and equally inspiring event, American athlete Oksana Masters made headlines by capturing her ninth career Paralympic gold medal in the women’s H5 road race, a kneeling handcycling category, thereby adding to her overall medal tally of 19. The 35-year-old exhibited tremendous competitive spirit as she engaged in a grueling 56.8-kilometer race alongside formidable opponents, including China’s Sun Bianbian and Italy’s Ana Maria Vitelaru. Masters took control of the race in the final stretch, ultimately finishing with a remarkable time of 1 hour, 52 minutes, and 14 seconds. She built an impressive lead of 11 seconds during the final ascent, showcasing her exceptional endurance and skill.

This win in Paris marks the second gold medal for Masters within the series of events she has participated in this Paralympic Games. She is set to compete once more in the mixed H1-5 team relay on Saturday, where she hopes to continue her successful run.

With athletes like Mehrzadselakjani and Masters demonstrating extraordinary resolve and talent, the Paralympics continue to reveal stories of inspiration and triumph, enriching the spirit of the games.

– Amanda Vogt, Student, John Curley Center for Sports Journalism, Penn State