Praveen Kumar Secures Gold Medal at Paris 2024 Paralympics with Record Jump
Praveen Kumar achieved a remarkable milestone by clinching the gold medal in the men’s high jump T64 class at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, setting a new Asian record in the process. This victory not only marked India’s sixth gold medal at the Games, the most ever garnered by the nation in a single edition of the event, but also underscored Praveen’s ascent in the realm of para-athletics.
The 21-year-old para-athlete successfully cleared a height of 2.08 meters during the final, securing his place as one of the most accomplished athletes in the discipline. Previously, Praveen earned a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where he established an Asian record of 2.07 meters. On this occasion, despite his attempts at 2.10 meters at the iconic Stade de France, he was unable to surpass that height. Notably, all of Praveen’s successful jumps from 1.89 meters to 2.08 meters were executed on the first attempt, showcasing his skill and precision.
In this competitive final, athletes from both T44 and T64 classes participated, a categorization that encompasses competitors with leg deficiencies resulting from amputations or congenital anomalies. In the T64 class, Derek Loccident from the United States set a new Paralympic record by clearing 2.06 meters, while Temurbek Giyazov of Uzbekistan secured the bronze medal in the T44 class with a personal best jump of 2.03 meters.
Praveen Kumar, born with a short leg, initially harbored an interest in pursuing volleyball. However, after demonstrating significant capability in high jump events against able-bodied competitors, he pivoted to specialize in this discipline. In his own words, “My coach and my family are the keys to my victory. And also the whole country of India. I am pleased with my jumps today. My only secrets are hard work, training, and maintaining a proper diet. That is all.”
Having previously established himself as India’s youngest para-athlete to earn a medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, Praveen further solidified his standing in the sport by winning gold at the Asian Para Games and bronze at the World Para Athletics Championship 2023 prior to the Paris event. His extraordinary achievements continue to inspire many and contribute significantly to the legacy of Indian athletics on the global stage.
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